Scientists investigate the mystery behind glowing patches of ocean

For centuries, sailors have recounted tales of glowing patches of ocean, particularly during moonless nights. This phenomenon, known as milky seas, manifests as vast expanses of illuminated water, yet scientific investigation into these occurrences has been limited. The most significant observation was conducted in 1985, providing the first and only scientific sample, which suggested that the bioluminescence was due to the bacteria Vibrio harveyi. This bacterium emits a consistent glow when its population peaks, differing from the more common bioluminescence caused by dinoflagellates that react to disturbances in their environment, such as movement from waves. To deepen the understanding of milky seas, atmospheric scientist Justin Hudson, a PhD candidate at the University of Colorado, has embarked on a research project that compiles accounts of these phenomena from sailors dating back over 400 years. By creating a comprehensive database that includes satellite images to validate these historic reports, Hudson aims to illuminate areas and times where milky seas are likely to occur. This potentially groundbreaking work can assist researchers and marine scientists in planning expeditions to collect samples of this mysterious glowing water. However, the challenge remains that milky seas are often found in remote regions of the world's oceans, making sampling efforts difficult. Steven D. Miller, Hudson's PhD advisor and fellow atmospheric scientist, notes that approximately 70% of the Earth's surface is covered by ocean, and the vastness combined with the scarcity of human presence in these spots complicates the research. Despite the known bacterial causes of milky seas, further research is critical in understanding the conditions under which they appear and how they can best be studied. The ongoing efforts by Hudson and his team to gather and analyze data could shed light on this captivating oceanic enigma, advancing the scientific community's understanding of bioluminescence and its ecological implications. As Hudson continues to connect historical narratives with modern technology, he hopes to foster a greater appreciation for the ocean's mysteries, while also preparing for future exploration that could finally reveal the full extent of milky seas phenomena.