Galicia bioluminescent “Mar de Ardora” displays

In mid‑July 2026, a large bloom of the dinoflagellate Noctiluca scintillans lit up the waters off A Lanzada in Galicia’s Rías Baixas, producing a vivid blue‑green glow that attracted locals and tourists. The phenomenon, known locally as the mar de ardora, also caused reddish‑orange discolorations (red tides) near Ons Island and other points along the coast. Authorities confirmed the event was harmless and unrelated to pollution, noting similar blooms had been observed earlier in the season.

By late July, the glow persisted across the Rías Baixas, with researchers such as marine scientist Francisco Rodríguez of the Vigo Oceanographic Centre explaining that the dinoflagellates emit light when disturbed. Visibility remained strongest from late May through September, especially at the Cíes Islands, Aldán, O Grove and again at A Lanzada. The continued displays kept drawing visitors and were promoted as a seasonal natural‑tourism attraction.

Overall, the bioluminescent event remained a recurring, harmless marine phenomenon throughout July, with scientific monitoring and growing public interest.