Sea GLOWS with blue lights in STUNNING photos described as 'underwater Northern Lights'
STUNNING photographs have emerged showing beach water in Tasmania GLOWING with bright blue lights.
The incredible images show the sea literally sparkling
The incredible images show the sea literally sparkling in an almost ghostly glow in scenes previously described as underwater Northern Lights.
This rare phenomenon is caused when a bioluminescent alga called noctiluca scintillan becomes stressed and they use bioluminescence for protection.
The alga - also known as "sea sparkle" - can usually by found in shallow waters and often feed off plankton, fish eggs and bacteria.
The scenes have previously been described as underwater Northern Lights
The whole bay was iridescent blue
Their colours differ depending on their mood and location, with scientists noting that they often appear red or pink in waters near the North Sea.
They are believed to be non-toxic to humans, but they have been know to cause skin irritations to some people.
The stunning pictures were captured by photographer Brett Chatwin at the shores of Preservation Bay.
Their colours differ depending on mood and location
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He told the BBC: "The whole bay was iridescent blue.
"I was gobsmacked. It was just an amazing sight."
They are believed to be non-toxic to humans
Speaking of the use of bioluminescence, he described it as acting like "a bit like a burglar alarm".
He added: "Something wants to eat you, you flash at it and then you scare it away."