BIOLUMINESCENT BAY LAGUNA GRANDE

The bioluminescent bay of Fajardo is the one that attracts the most people in Puerto Rico. Its proximity to San Juan alone explains its great popularity. The phenomenon of bioluminescent bays is not very common: there are 5 in the world, including 3 in Puerto Rico. At night, a luminosity is perceived in the water as soon as a body is in motion. It is caused by micro-organisms called dinoflagellates that react with a small neon light as soon as the water is agitated. There is no point in simply looking at the water from the shore. No agitation, no reaction. In terms of dinoflagellate concentration, Vieques Bay is now far superior. Pollution and climate change have affected the biological environment of these very fragile microorganisms. Many conditions are necessary to ensure their survival, such as the presence of mangroves that allow them to feed on dead leaves. The water temperature must be maintained around a stable value. The human pollution around, such as artificial lights or the discharge of products, should not change the quality of the water. Anyone who cares about the survival of this biological treasure will be content to visit it by canoe. Swimming causes pollution of the water by perfume, sun protection creams or mosquito repellent, which visitors often carry with them when entering the water.