Bioluminescence in the Gulf of Oman

February 06, 2018

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Photographer: Omid Ghiasoddin
Summary Authors: Omid Ghiasoddin; Jim Foster

Shown in the foreground above is bioluminescent, marine plankton (dinoflagellates) as observed in the Gulf of Oman, near Chabahar Port, Iran. Such bioluminescence is quite common in the sea, but it is best is seen best when the dinoflagellates are disturbed, either by breaking waves or perhaps by passing ships. The electric blue light may both ward off predators and lure in prey. Note that the bright splotches on the horizon are light pollution from city lights in Oman. Photo taken on December 15, 2017.

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