Action of Science: Why the San Diego Beach Water, Waves Suddenly Become Pink

San Diego beach water and waves suddenly became pink. A recent report said the event was considered environmentally safe for the water and aquatic animals.

The color of the water may change depending on situations, including flooding or the presence of algae.

However, the change of water color in San Diego Beach is an action of science to help researchers study the fresh water and ocean water in the area.

Suddenly becomes pink the waves in San Diego Beach

According to The Weather Network, researchers looked into the ocean to determine the pollutants and larvae and how it affects the ocean water.

The study occurs every January and February.

Meanwhile, USA Today explained that the pink waves and water there are only temporary in Torrey Pines State Beach for research and experiment.

The research would become helpful in looking into breaking waves, water temperatures, salinity and possible pollution.

The USA Today reported that the project is called Plumes in Nearshore Conditions or PiNC, studying the estuary of Los Peñasquitos Lagoon.

According to the report, the researchers aimed to quantify the plumes that freshwater managed to interact with.

The process is considered non-toxic and not harmful to the environment. When the researchers unleashed the pink dye, it would be noticeable for about three to six hours.

Based on USA Today's report, postdoctoral scholar Alex Simpson explained that they would use an advanced sensor to detect the effect.

Meanwhile, the study's lead Sarah Giddings, explained that the research would help decision-makers to close beaches due to heavy rainfall or severe weather events.

Why water changes in color

(Photo : by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)
Westgate Park on March 27, 2019 in Melbourne, Australia.

People might have seen that water changes in color. It might be a natural event, pollution or the art of science.

Changes in water color can be associated with algae bloom, which could become toxic and harmful to the environment.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), algae can thrive in all water systems.

CDC explained that overpopulation of algae in bodies of water could impact the ecosystems of animals and the environment.

Also Read: Heavy Rain and Flooding Unlikely to Achieve Big Impact on Prolonged Drought in California 

The report added that algae bloom due to phytoplankton is harmful to marine life, adding to the concerns of toxins.

Meanwhile, algae bloom can also lead to a public health concern affecting human health.

Pink lakes in Australia

In Western Australia, ABC News reported that pink color lakes are famous. Lake Hillier shows the majestic pink color lakes that attract visitors.

The said lake has maintained the pink color for centuries, unlike other lakes that become pink for research purposes.

According to ABC News, pink water in lakes can be associated with the presence of Dunaliella salina. Further research showed the emergence of a bacterium called Salinibacter ruber. Both algae help to unleash the pink color.

The pink lakes in Australia have been unique and rare. Continuous studies are conducted to determine the reason behind the color and maintain its pink color.

Did you know? In Australia, there is also a lake called Pink Lake.

Related Article: 24 Trillion Gallons of Water Unloaded in California Due to Weeks of Relentless Storms

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