Those of us who have the privilege of living in, or simply
visiting, Puerto Peñasco were treated to a wonderful spectacle at the beach
recently, as waves seemed to take on a blue fluorescent effect due to the
presence of bioluminescent microorganisms or plankton, which react with the
motion of the waves.
Although this phenomenon has occurred before on our coast, sometimes it is more
noticeable than others. Such was the case on January 20th, when a blue
fluorescent glow surprised beach visitors in Las Conchas, some of whom who were
able to capture it in pictures.
In an explanation for this natural occurrence, Paloma Valdivia from the
Intercultural Center for the Study of Deserts and Oceans (CEDO), offered the
following:
“It is more or less normal for Puerto Peñasco, although on this occasion
it was very intense. These microorganisms are called dinoflagellates, also
known as “sea sparkle”, and they generate a luminescence. Sometimes,
when plankton reproduces in large quantities it produces these
“blooms”, and when there are many of these organisms the
bioluminescence becomes more intense.”
This particular spectacle is unpredictable and there isn’t a specific time as
to when it occurs, although in Puerto Peñasco this phenomenon has taken place
in the past during winter.
So, whenever you are at the beach make sure you have your camera with you! You
never know when this might happen, and it’s just one more wonderful gift from
the Sea of Cortez!
This article is brought to you by the Sonoran Resorts Sales Team, www.sonoranresorts.mx, Jim Ringquist, Director of Sales and Marketing. Sign up for Jim’s Monthly Newsletter: http://www.tinyurl.com/JimNewsletter