IN NEWS :
           Blue bioluminescent waves, locally called Kavaru, have appeared in Kochi’s backwaters. While attracting tourists, they raise concerns among ecologists and fishers.

  1. Cause:
    The glow is caused by Noctiluca scintillans (sea sparkle), a dinoflagellate that emits light when disturbed. Its presence is influenced by salinity, temperature, and nutrient-rich runoff.
  2. Environmental Factors:
    Eutrophication from industrial and sewage discharge boosts nutrient levels, encouraging plankton blooms. When concentrations exceed 5 lakh/litre, red tides may occur, disrupting marine life.
  3. Ecological & Economic Impact:
    Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) reduce oxygen levels, kill fish, and harm aquaculture.

Fishers suffer income loss, and some blooms release toxins that threaten marine and human health.