Bioluminescent Waves Illuminate Praia da Guarita in Torres, RS

Fluorescent colors are recorded in sea waves in RS

Those who were at Praia da Guarita, in Torres, on the coast of Rio Grande do Sul, in the early hours of this Friday (22), could watch a spectacle from a box: the sea waves shone in shades of blue.

But anyone who thought that this happened on someone’s initiative or that it was a reflection of moonlight is mistaken. Those responsible were small marine living beings. The phenomenon is called bioluminescence (find out more below).

Gabriel Zaparolli, who was at the seaside at the time, recorded the event at around 2am (See the video above and images throughout the report).

1 of 2 Light waves in Torres — Photo: Gabriel Zaparolli/Disclosure Light waves in Torres — Photo: Gabriel Zaparolli/Disclosure

What is bioluminescence

Marine biologist Elisabeth Cabral, professor at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), explains that bioluminescence is a characteristic present in several organisms, such as fireflies and mushrooms. In the case of Torres, there was dinoflagellate plankton activity.

“It is a process that emits light through a chemical reaction, which will have several functions. Some organisms use it for communication, others to avoid predators, others to attract prey or sexual partners”, he details.

According to the professor, planktons are present along the entire Brazilian coast. The most favorable conditions for bioluminescent blooms are warmer, calmer waters.

“For us to have that beautiful view, where we have the waters shining, they will have to be in large numbers”, he comments.

This type of bloom that occurred is non-toxic and does not pose any risks to bathers. Pollution and rain carry more nutrients to the coast, increasing the population of these living beings.

During the day, they can be seen, but without lighting. The appearance of dinoflagellates in bright environments is reddish.

2 of 2 Bioluminescence can be seen at sea in Torres — Photo: Gabriel Zaparolli/Disclosure Bioluminescence can be seen at sea in Torres — Photo: Gabriel Zaparolli/Disclosure
2023-09-23 12:20:56
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