2023-08-24 03:00:00
This summer, Galicians witnessed a surprising and magical natural spectacle: the Sea of Ardora. Yurima Celdrán Meteored Spain 24/08/2023 05:00 5 min
On hot summer nights, the sea waters of parts of Galicia take on a brilliant blue hue which dazzles and captivates all lucky spectators. This spectacle of marine bioluminescence has captured the imagination of sailors, scientists and nature lovers over the centuries.
But what causes this amazing phenomenon? In this article, we’ll find out why and how it happens, as well as other parts of the world where you might have the opportunity to witness it.
What is the Sea of Ardora and why does it occur?
The Ardora Sea is a natural phenomenon in which the sea water takes on a bluish hue in the dark of night. This incredible spectacle is due to bioluminescent microorganisms, including the dinoflagellate Noctiluca Scintillans and other species of microalgae. These organisms emit light as a result of internal chemical reactions, creating the characteristic luminous effect in water.
The Sea of Ardora is a veritable sea of stars in the dark of night.
The scientific explanation of this bioluminescence lies in the accumulation of these microalgae and their chemical reaction with the movement of water. When there is a high density of microalgae and the water is agitated, this reaction that generates the blue glow occurs. This reaction is similar to that which occurs in terrestrial fireflies.
Luminescent algae dye the Costa da Morte blue due to an infrequent phenomenon called “Mar de Ardora” pic.twitter.com/q4VkqtPLgp
— THE WORLD (@elmundoes) August 17, 2023
This reaction can have different objectives, such as attracting prey, protecting itself from predators or communicating with other organisms. The result is a radiant blue-green glow that illuminates the sea at night.
Why in Galicia and in summer?
The phenomenon of the Sea of Ardora has a special connection with the Galician coasts and occurs during the summer months due to a combination of environmental factors unique to the region.
For the great marine biodiversity…
The Atlantic waters off the Galician coast are home to great marine biodiversity, including various species of dinoflagellates and bioluminescent microorganisms. These small, single-celled beings thrive in nutrient-rich waters, and sea currents that interact with Galicia’s coastal geography contribute to the concentration of these populations.
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… and rising temperatures
During the summer months the water temperature rises, creating conditions conducive to the growth and proliferation of these microalgae. With increasing temperature, the metabolic activity of dinoflagellates also increases, resulting in increased production of the enzyme luciferase, responsible for light emission. So when the currents and tides agitate the water at night, a wonderful light effect occurs in the ocean, bringing to life the magical phenomenon of the Sea of Ardora.
Where to see the Sea of Ardora in Galicia and in the world?
To enjoy this fascinating spectacle in Galicia, the beaches of Carnota, Malpica and Ponteceso are ideal places. These areas present the ideal conditions to observe the Ardora Sea due to the low light pollution and the concentration of microalgae.
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However, this phenomenon is not limited to Galicia. In other parts of the world, such as Mosquito Bay on the island of Vieques in Puerto Rico and Toyama Bay in Japan, you can also observe impressive luminous seas.
In Mosquito Bay, bioluminescence is produced by the dinoflagellate Pyrodinium bahamense, while in Toyama Bay, small marine organisms called ostracods create an amazing “star trail” effect in the sea.
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