Flat residents behind Playa de Velilla in Almuñécar had a birdseye's view of one of natures fascinating spectacles: bioluminescence or in other words an eire light generated by microscopic algae.

The responsible creature has the scientific name of noctiluca scintillans so let’s go over to Wikipedia for a bit of gen on them:

“Noctiluca scintillans is a marine species of dinoflagellate that can exist in a green or red form, depending on the pigmentation in its vacuoles. It can be found worldwide, but its geographical distribution varies depending on whether it is green or red. This unicellular microorganism is known for its ability to bioluminesce, giving the water a bright blue glow seen at night. However, blooms of this species can be responsible for environmental hazards, such as toxic red tides. They may also be an indicator of anthropogenic eutrophication.”

The Town Hall quickly issued a statement, pointing out that it was not something nasty; i.e., the digestive output of the Human Species… Of course, after visiting the bathroom and switching off the light you notice a blue glow, it could be a good time to see your doctor… just saying!

It’s not the first time that the sea has glowed in this fascinating manner, as on previous occasions that has been reported off Playa Cantarriján as well as the beaches of Salobreña and Torrenueva.

So, summing up, nothing to worry about but if after taking a shower you still glow in the dark, have a quiet word with your wife about her cooking…

(News: Almunecar, Costa Tropical, Granada, Andalucia)