Algae Bloom Detected Along North and Central Kerala Coasts

Swift summary

• the Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) has reported an extensive algae bloom along the north and central Kerala coasts as early August 2025.
• known as “red tide,” this phenomenon involves reddish discoloration caused by blooms of the microalga Noctiluca scintillans (red dinoflagellate).
• A research team led by Lathika Cicily Thomas under the ANRF-SRG program studied the event,confirming its progression from Chavakkad beach in Thrissur district to Kozhikode beaches.
• The bloom is moving southward due to surface currents and affecting shorelines such as Edakkazhiyur and Puthenkadapuram. Locally, it is indeed termed ‘Pooneer,’ ‘Polavellam,’ or ‘Karavellam.’
• Shallow intertidal zones display a pronounced reddish hue during the day,with bioluminescent blue-green flashes visible in surf zones at night.
• No fish or invertebrate mortality has been reported so far, but recurrent blooms may alter water quality and have ecological repercussions.

Indian Opinion analysis

The occurrence of algae blooms like this red tide along Kerala’s coast reflects ongoing global environmental challenges such as rising temperatures and possible marine ecosystem imbalances. While no immediate aquatic fatalities have been observed, the spread over several kilometers underscores potential long-term implications for local fisheries reliant on water quality. With Kerala being a hub for coastal livelihoods, understanding such phenomena could inform necessary precautionary policies to manage harmful algal impacts effectively over time.

This event also highlights an opportunity for collaborative research on mitigating environmental strains between academic institutions like Cusat and government entities. Sustained monitoring will be critical not just for ecosystem health but potentially preserving economic activities tied to marine biodiversity across India’s coastal regions.Read more: The Hindu