Amid concerns that warming weather increases red tide, researchers say the soap-like foam substance produced by algae in the Persian Gulf is retreating.
As tourists and residents enjoy the beach, Mother Nature has been struggling to find its way out the red algal bloom; experts are keeping a watchful eye on the situation.
The phenomenon known as a 'red tide' is actually the result of an algal bloom, an event in which marine or fresh water algae accumulate rapidly in the water.
The latest ecological studies revealed the bloom of the microorganism Cochlodinium polykrikoides is under control.
Spring rains have played a helpful role in controlling the dangerous phenomenon by cooling down the weather.
Before the rains, four to five million units of algae could be found in a liter of Persian Gulf water. After the spring rains, the number decreased to 10,000 units per liter.
Scientists believe if the phenomenon is not under control serious effects will appear on the Persian Gulf environment and ecosystem.
Iranian researchers are racing to find ways to stop the spread of the red tide before the ocean warms in summer.
The effect of excessive algae on fish can be lethal. It produces oxygen radicals which can damage fish gills, possibly leading to suffocation.
Last year, the little creatures were to blame for 45 tons of dead fish; the damage inflicted on the Persian Gulf is estimated to be close to 500 million dollars.
NAT/SC/MD
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