The bioluminescent waves of Vaadhoo Island

April 11, 2012 | Environment
Bioluminescent waves: great for night surfing | Photo: Doug Perrine

Doug Perrine, a marine biology photographer, has captured stunning images of bioluminescent waves in Vaadhoo Island, Maldives.

The spot holds a concentrated population of bioluminescent phytoplankton, much to the delight of photographers.

Various species of phytoplankton are known to bioluminesce, and when washed ashore by the tides, their chemical energy is turned into light energy, illuminating waves all over the world.

The biological process is ancient, natural, and found around the world. If you've never seen it, it's most easily observed on nice, warm beaches after dark.