Thailand's Paradise Island Turns Toxic Green

Heavy rains and floods have caused a vibrant green plankton bloom off Thailand's Ko Lan island, a popular tourist destination. This natural phenomenon, identified as Noctiluca plankton, has transformed stretches of the coastline. Researchers are collecting samples to monitor water quality and identify species, noting that such blooms are becoming more severe globally due to warming seas and nutrient pollution.

The plankton bloom, typically lasting two to three days, carries the risk of creating hypoxic conditions upon its decay. This process depletes oxygen in the water, potentially forming aquatic dead zones detrimental to marine life, particularly bottom-dwelling species. Scientists are investigating the potential link between this year's monsoons, El Niño, and intensified hypoxic conditions.

Tourism on Ko Lan has been affected, with some visitors deterred by the unusual green water, opting to move to unaffected areas or stay out of the sea altogether. The unusual color has led to apprehension among tourists, impacting local businesses.