Glowing algae make Australian beaches look like a fairy tale!
September 2, 2025, CNN report.
A beach in Melbourne, Australia, was covered with a "dreamlike glow" during the night this week.
This is thanks to bioluminescent algae that add a sparkling electric blue tone to the water and sand,
Marine ecologist Pansack said that during the day, algal blooms appear as bright pink or orange clouds.
At night, it turns into a "stunning blue light display," giving the beach a "magic, ethereal glow."
It has been reported that this type of algae has spread to the northwest coast of Melbourne.
This phenomenon is caused by a chemical reaction in the algae when they are stirred or disturbed,
such as when they are caught by predators, or when they are disturbed by waves or swimmers.
"This is likely a defense mechanism, because bioluminescence can startle predators
or attract larger predators to attack those that eat these algae."
These algae are not considered toxic, but they may be harmful to fish due to their high ammonia content and ability to reduce oxygen levels.
Scientists say that these glowing algal blooms are a natural phenomenon, but their numbers and duration have increased rapidly since the 1990s.
Studies have linked more frequent and intense algal blooms to warming oceans.
As water temperatures rise, the ocean layers mix less, which in turn causes nutrients to mix less effectively, creating conditions favorable for algal growth, which may be an indication of an unhealthy ocean.
These algae have proven to be a very popular attraction.
Hundreds of people have visited the island of St. Kilda to experience this scene.
Original text: www.toutiao.com/article/1842287284847616/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.