Georgofili World

Newsletter of the Georgofili Academy

Luminescent Algae Signals Global Warming

A sudden abundant bloom of the bioluminescent Noctiluca scintillans invaded the waters of the Derwent River in Tasmania (Australia). For two nights, it provided local photographers with a unique opportunity to take spectacular pictures. In addition to the many luminous spots in the water, there was an equally spectacular aurora australis. In the background. As can be seen in the images, wave crests are the areas most affected by this phenomenon.
But the night images are the only positive aspect of this algae bloom, which is linked to global warming. The excessive multiplication of N. scintillans is often due to the influx of oxygen-poor waters and it  causes a massive die-off of plankton and fish species. Occasionally, it also causes the release of very dangerous clouds of ammonia into the atmosphere.

Photo: Paul Fleming -

Source:, 11/06/2015