PORTLAND, Maine – For centuries, sailors have recounted tales of witnessing a mesmerizing phenomenon known as “milky seas,” where large expanses of the ocean glow in an otherworldly light. These events, often occurring in remote regions like the Arabian Sea, have puzzled researchers due to their rarity and difficulty to study.
Recently, a breakthrough in understanding these mysterious occurrences has emerged. Justin Hudson, a doctoral student at Colorado State University, compiled over 400 documented sightings of milky seas to create a comprehensive database. This database aims to assist scientists in predicting and studying these bioluminescent displays in the future, shedding light on a centuries-old enigma.
One significant finding from the study is the association of milky seas with specific regions, primarily the Arabian Sea and Southeast Asian waters. Additionally, these events may be influenced by global climate phenomena such as the Indian Ocean Dipole and El Niño Southern Oscillation. Hudson believes that these regions experience roughly one milky sea event per year, highlighting the areas as hotspots for biological activity.
Researchers hypothesize that the glow in milky seas is caused by high concentrations of bioluminescent bacteria called Vibrio harveyi. Unlike more common bioluminescent events triggered by phytoplankton, the glow in milky seas is believed to serve as a means to attract fish, aiding in the bacteria’s reproduction cycle.
Beyond the scientific implications, experts like Dr. Edith Widder, an oceanographer and marine biologist, ponder the ecological effects of milky seas on ocean life. The impact on nocturnal marine creatures and the larger carbon cycle remains a subject of intrigue and investigation.
Dr. Steven Miller, a study coauthor, emphasizes the importance of understanding how climate change influences these glowing events and their subsequent effects on marine ecosystems. With the newfound database, researchers hope to delve deeper into the mysteries of milky seas and unravel their significance within the intricate web of ocean life.
