Scientists Puzzled – Is Global Warming Causing Huge Phytoplankton Bloom off Vancouver Island?
A huge algae bloom off the west coast of Vancouver Island puzzles scientists. This was first sighted on Nasa satellite images in late June. Bluish green in colour, this living mass is composed of microscopic phytoplankton. It is thought that perhaps it is caused by global warming.
Although it is common to see patches, a bloom of this size has never before been observed. Warm ocean temperatures encourage algae growth, leading scientists to believe this may be a result of global warming.
Vancouver Island is situated off Canadas west coast, running approximately 500 kilometres long. Its normally temperate climate and the many year-round attractions on Vancouver Island bring visitors from all over the world.
The region includes Long Beach, part of Pacific Rim National Park, and famed for its miles of surf. The popular towns of Tofino and Ucluelet are also located along the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Vancouver Island (PRWEB) July 17, 2006 — Scientists are puzzled by a huge algae bloom off the west coast of Vancouver Island. This was sighted on Nasa satellite images in late June. Bluish green in colour, it is composed of microscopic phytoplankton. It is thought that perhaps it is caused by global warming.
The growth is not believed to be toxic, and is not related to red tide. Sidneys Institute of Ocean Sciences is collecting data on the algae bloom, believed because of its turquoise colour to be composed mainly of a plankton called coccolithophores.
Actually looking quite pretty in colour, the growth is about 15 kilometres off the west coast of Vancouver Island and runs almost the whole length of the island.
For further information on Vancouver Island, go to www.myvancouverislandparadise.com.
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