The reason for the mysterious sparkles surrounding the seas has been revealed

These highly reflective blue-green areas seen in satellite data were generally thought to be associated with particulate inorganic carbon (PIC) at the sea surface.

These reflections were attributed to single-celled organisms called coccolithophores, which produce reflective calcite flakes (coccoliths). The problem, however, was that while these organisms require warmth to survive, the area in question was very close to the South Pole and located in very cold waters.

THE TRUTH WAS REVEALED WITH THE RESEARCH SHIP

To solve this mystery, a team of scientists led by Barney Balch set out to explore the Southern Ocean, abandoning satellite data and setting out on their own. The research vessel Roger Revelle, departing from Hawaii, traversed the "great calcite belt" and proceeded to the South Pole. Due to the summer season, plankton was at its highest density during this period.

The researchers measured numerous parameters in situ, from ocean color and photosynthesis rate to calcification and inorganic carbon and silica concentrations, providing firsthand insights into life at depths beyond the reach of surface-based satellites.

Contrary to expectations, although some traces of coccolithophores were found in the study area, this was not enough to explain the intense reflection in the satellite images. The real culprit turned out to be diatoms. These organisms, which reflect light strongly thanks to their glass-like silica structure, create an optically similar effect to coccolithophores.

SATELLITE DATA WILL BE REVIEWED

These findings necessitate a reevaluation of satellite data that has been misinterpreted for years. The researchers note that such high reflectivity may be due to the density of diatoms, not coccolithophores. In particular, it appears that PIC (particulate inorganic carbon) measurements may have been misread due to these light-scattering, glass-shelled diatoms.

It has a big role in the climate cycle.

Both types of plankton—coccolithophores and diatoms—play key roles in the global carbon cycle. They transport organic carbon deep into the ocean, generate energy through photosynthesis, and fuel massive marine food chains. This new discovery fills a significant gap in our understanding of marine ecosystems.