Why Do Certain Rivers Glow Blue at Night?
Published on: March 2, 2026, 3:41 p.m. | Source: The Economic Times
Rivers and coastal lagoons worldwide emit an electric blue glow after sunset, a phenomenon caused by bioluminescent dinoflagellates. These microscopic plankton produce light through chemical reactions when disturbed, primarily as a defense mechanism. The glow requires specific ecological conditions, including salinity, nutrient levels, and environmental stability, making these glowing rivers sensitive indicators of ecosystem health.
