A mysterious phenomenon in which the ocean appears to glow as far as the eye can see has baffled scientists for four centuries. Now, they appear to be on the cusp of unlocking the secret behind this rare glow.
These vast expanses of water, glowing in the dark like stars scattered across the ocean, are called "burning seas," and this phenomenon represents one of the most exciting and puzzling marine mysteries.
A team of scientists at the University of Colorado is studying this rare phenomenon, which often occurs in remote areas of the Indian Ocean.
The mystery that has puzzled generations began to unravel with the development of modern observational methods. Scientists were able to compile a historical record spanning from the seventeenth century to the present day, documenting more than 200 observations of this amazing phenomenon.
Scientific analysis reveals that this unique bioluminescence is caused by massive populations of luminous bacteria, particularly a species known as Vibrio harveyi. Ironically, however, these same microorganisms that create the enchanting spectacle may actually be a sign of environmental imbalance, a pest that harms fish and crustaceans.
Professor Stephen Miller, who has spent years tracking this phenomenon via satellite, describes it as "a natural masterpiece that reflects the complexity of the ecosystem." Researcher Justin Hudson explains that the phenomenon is closely linked to major climate patterns such as El Niño, making its study a gateway to a deeper understanding of the impact of climate change on the oceans.
The biggest challenge facing scientists is the scarcity of direct observations. There is only one photograph taken by chance on a yacht in 2019, and a single water sample collected in 1985. This lack of data makes it difficult to determine whether this phenomenon is evidence of ecosystem health or deterioration.
As the historical database, combining ancient marine records with modern satellite data, develops, scientists hope to develop predictive models that will enable them to send research teams to study the phenomenon in real time. These efforts could reveal not only the secrets of bioluminescence but also the role of bacteria in the global carbon cycle, potentially radically changing our understanding of planet Earth.