In recent days, the Black Sea coast near Romania has been illuminated by bioluminescent light – a spectacular phenomenon caused by the massive development of a specific type of phytoplankton.
The beautiful bioluminescence in the Black Sea is both impressive but alarming.
According to Prof. Valentina Todorova from the Institute of Oceanology, we are talking about the species Lingulodinium polyhedra, a dinoflagellated phytoplankton, which, in addition to the light effect, also has toxic properties. This is an alarming signal for the ecosystem of the Black Sea, as this organism not only changes the natural balance in the marine environment, but also hides potential dangers for marine life and humans.
Such phenomena have not been observed in the Bulgarian water area so far, but the high temperatures this autumn create a prerequisite.
What is Lingulodinium polyhedra, and why is its flowering dangerous?
Lingulodinium polyedra is a species of phytoplankton of the dinoflagellate group, known for its ability to induce bright bioluminescence when stimulated. This light appears as a defense mechanism – when moving or disturbing in the water, the dinoflagella cells emit a bluish-green light, which is intended to repel or confuse predators. At first glance, this phenomenon seems harmless and even beautiful, but behind it there are risks associated with the accumulation of toxins in the aquatic environment.
Toxicity and potential hazard to shellfish and fish
One of the main dangers of Lingulodinium polyedra is its ability to release toxins that can accumulate in the body of shellfish organisms and fish. These toxins create conditions for mass extinction of marine life, especially in closed bodies of water such as the Black Sea. If seafood from the affected areas is consumed by humans, it can lead to serious health problems, including poisoning and neurological disorders.
Reasons for the mass development:
The main reason for the spread of toxic phytoplanktonic species like this is the increased level of nitrogen and phosphorus in seawater. These substances usually enter the Black Sea from rivers such as the Danube, which carry waste from agriculture, industrial sources and urbanization. An excessive amount of nutrients leads to the so-called. eutrophication, in which phytoplankton begin to multiply on a large scale, forming "blooms".
Influence of climate change and water temperature
Climate change and rising water temperatures in the Black Sea also play an important role in the spread of Lingulodinium polyhedra. In warm conditions, the metabolism of phytoplankton is accelerated, which leads to faster reproduction. Temperature changes also predispose to longer flowering periods, especially in summer and autumn, when the combination of heat and nutrients creates ideal conditions for development.
Harmful effects on the ecosystem
The mass flowering of Lingulodinium polyhedra leads to significant changes in the marine ecosystem. As a result of its spread and the subsequent accumulation of toxins in the water, the so-called. "red tide" – a phenomenon in which water acquires a reddish tint. This condition is dangerous for many species of fish and shellfish, as it depletes the available oxygen and leads to pollution of the marine environment. Massive losses of fish and other marine organisms pose serious problems for biodiversity and the long-term stability of the ecosystem.
Risks to fisheries and tourism
The fishing industry is directly affected by the mass blooms of toxic phytoplankton. Losses of fish stocks mean economic losses for fishermen and local communities that rely on marine resources for their livelihoods. In addition, contaminated water and the danger of accumulation of toxins in seafood can lead to a decline in tourism – an area that is an important economic sector for countries along the Black Sea. If tourists avoid the beaches due to environmental problems and the potential danger of poisoning, it will deal a serious blow to the local economy.
Strict pollution control measures
Reducing pollution is a key measure to prevent future mass blooms of toxic phytoplanktonic species such as Lingulodinium polyhedron. This includes controlling wastewater coming from agriculture and industry, as well as reducing chemical pollutants that end up in the Black Sea. Local authorities and countries around the Black Sea can introduce stricter wastewater regulations and promote sustainable agriculture that uses fewer chemicals.
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