Red sea gets green light from government

Copper-coloured float is an algal bloom

Members of the public are being reassured that patches of red sea water that have been spotted around parts of the Island over recent days are a natural phenomenon.

The red colouration was spotted in Laxey over the weekend and in Douglas this morning (Tues 10th). It's also been seen in Ramsey.

Scientists at the Government Laboratory have analysed samples and confirmed the discolouration is caused by a type of algae, Noctiluca scintillans, and no cause for concern.

Marine Monitoring Officer at the Government Laboratory, Dr Kevin Kennington, says the algae is non-toxic and regularly blooms during the summer months in the Irish Sea. 

However, it is possible that dense blooms will also attract other organisms such as jellyfish which will feed on the Noctiluca. The public are therefore advised to avoid swimming through patches of water that are clearly discoloured.

The species name "Noctiluca" means "shine by night" and Dr Kennington says the algal blooms may provide some spectacular bioluminescence along the shore line at night.