The investigation was carried out by biologists from EcoAngola and the Mwangolé Coast Guards, between Sunday and Monday, to analyse the causes of the algae bloom and assess its impacts.
According to the preliminary results released this Tuesday, consulted by Lusa, the species ‘Noctiluca scintillans’ is known to cause bioluminescent blooms and deterioration of water quality when it grows excessively.
“On the night of 16 September 2024, signs of bioluminescence were confirmed, reinforcing the hypothesis that 'Noctiluca scintillans' is the species responsible. Although bibliographic research on bioluminescence in Angola is limited, studies suggest that oceanic conditions in the region may favour the proliferation of this algae”, the report highlights.
Reports from fishermen indicate a decrease in catches, as well as an unpleasant odor in affected areas, and analysis of satellite images showed a significant increase in blooms from June onwards, coinciding with complaints from local residents.
The issue at hand is a problem of marine pollution visible along the coast of Luanda, caused by an algae bloom.
“This phenomenon, which extends over a large area, raises concerns about the health of the marine ecosystem, water quality and the impact on local activities, such as fishing and tourism,” the report reads.
The experts used microscopy and observation techniques to identify the predominant species in the bloom, spoke to fishermen and local residents, who helped gather information on the evolution of the phenomenon and its impact on daily activities, and reviewed satellite images between 1 May and 16 September to identify peaks in blooms and corroborate complaints of contamination.
“Although the literature on bioluminescence in Angola is limited, studies suggest that ocean conditions in the region may favor the proliferation of this algae,” they emphasize, advising that, in order to deepen the research, water temperature should be monitored over the months, other microorganisms identified in the samples and collected in more locations, such as the province of Benguela, water quality parameters should be assessed, including nutrients and chlorophyll, and the quality of the satellite images used should be improved.
For prevention and mitigation, these organizations recommend implementing efficient wastewater treatment systems, regulating the use of fertilizers in coastal areas, creating vegetated buffer zones, and improving sanitation infrastructure.
“It is essential to conduct awareness campaigns on the impacts of pollution, replant mangroves, and implement continuous monitoring of water quality. It is also important to encourage sustainable aquaculture and create marine protection zones, in addition to physically removing algae from critical areas, if necessary,” they recommend.
The Minister of the Environment, Ana Paula de Carvalho, announced last week that samples had been collected for analysis and that a multi-sectoral group comprising representatives from various government institutions and relevant entities had been created to ensure an integrated and effective approach to identifying the source of the fluid and implementing the necessary measures to mitigate its impacts.
The phenomenon associated with ‘Noctiluca scintillans' can be classified as a ‘red tide’, characterised by the proliferation of algae that can change the colour of the water. Although it is not toxic, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, generating public health concerns and reducing recreational and tourist activities.
