Beachgoers in San Diego were recently treated to a mesmerizing natural phenomenon: bioluminescent waves.
Vishwas Lokesh, a photographer in San Diego, recently captured photos and videos of these neon blue waves and shared them on his Instagram. The bioluminescence has been visible from the sand since the early morning of February 25th.
To see this beautiful phenomenon, it needs to be dark out as organisms do not glow if they’re in the light. However, this natural occurrence can happen at any time of the year, making them somewhat unpredictable. As of recent, people have reported seeing the bioluminescent waves at Torrey Pines State Beach, North Ponto Beach, and Carlsbad State Beach.
But how do these glowing waves come to be? The magic behind bioluminescent waves comes from tiny ocean creatures called dinoflagellates. These single-celled organisms have a special talent: they can make their own light! They do this through a chemical reaction inside their bodies similar to a tiny flashlight. When waves crash or something brushes against them in the water, the dinoflagellates light up, creating that eye-catching blue glow.
Witnessing these neon blue waves shimmer in the darkness is a truly unforgettable experience. While the science behind how these tiny organisms create light is fascinating, it's important to be sure to be mindful of your surroundings and respect the environment. Because the bioluminescent waves can only be seen in the dark, be careful of rip currents and uneven surfaces. And if you’re unable to see the waves in person, there are many online resources that capture their beauty.
If you're curious to see more of the wonders San Diego has to offer, you can check out local footage and photography of leopard sharks, full moons, and the recent bioluminescence captures by checking out Vishwas’ Instagram page: @shotbyvish
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