Bioluminescence a sign of unhealthy ocean: Researchers

In the wake of this, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University has dispatched a few marine scientists to collect samples of sea animals and planktons to ascertain the reported bioluminescence.

In a tweet, activist and researcher from Coastal resource centre, Pooja Kumar, said, “While my TL is going bonkers over bioluminescence Noctiluca spotted in the Bay of Bengal near Chennai last night, it’s important to remember that this is a sign of a possibly unhealthy ocean. First, these microscopic plankton usually bloom in areas where the oxygen level is low and nitrogen, phosphorus levels are high, which is usually bad news for the larger marine food chain.” 

Another Twitter user even connected the bioluminisence with Athi Varadar fest. “Bioluminescence in Chennai beaches happens every 40 years on the day of the Athivarathar getting back in water. The blue is a sign of vishnu glowing inside water” the tweet read.

Tamil Nadu Dr Jayalalithaa Fisheries University (TNJFU) om Monday dispatched a few marine scientists to collect samples of sea animals and planktons to ascertain the reported bioluminescence process reported in social media near Thiruvanmiyur beach on Sunday night

V Felix, the vice chancellor of TNJFU told DT Next, “So far, there is no first-hand information on the subject, they are going ahead with field sample studies. “The algal bloom is a common process in the ocean exposing pollution and the bioluminescence is a threat to marine life. By examining the local samples, we can study the level of impact. The blooms are usually followed by massive killing of fish owing to low oxygen levels, the vice chancellor explained.

He pointed out that public who have taken photos can send the pictures with the area markings for them to document.

“Our members have earlier recorded green turquoise picture near Thiruvanmiyur, which is a sign of algal bloom, but we have no direct evidence with us for the occurrence on Saturday,” said a a researcher associated with Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute in Chennai.

Bioluminescence is a common event that occurs in Indian ocean exposing the high pollution levels and there is nothing alarming about it. If the marine nutrient value declines further than there will be constant algal blooms, opined marine biologist Maruthu associated with Alagappa University.

The sight is usually colourful and is mostly turquoise green. In some cases, flashy blue and red is also reported. “But the red colour bloom is more dangerous and toxic. Till now there is no mass stranding of fish along the coast and this means there is no major outbreak of algal bloom,” noted Maruthu.

These algae excrete large amounts of nutrients and toxins, causing massive fish mortality and it is common after rains or after discharge of effluents in to the sea, he explained.