Apocalypse? Galilee Sea gets ‘Blood Color’ and scares tourists

Flowering is explained by environmental factors and the biochemistry of the microalgae. Michigan searches State University and European centers point out that, in the intense heat and light, the Botryococcus Braunii produces pigments like the beta -carotenewhich generate the orange or red tone.

In addition to the visual impact, the seaweed arouses scientific interest in its energy potential. Studied decades ago, it is able to produce petroleum -like hydrocarbons, which attracted research in the biofuels area.

The pigments generated are harmless and do not indicate sanitary risk. According to article of Nature BIOTECHNOLOGYwater remains safe for use, although the unusual appearance custom generates concern in places of strong symbolic value.

‘Divine Punishment’

The Sea of Galilee has a strong symbolic burden on Christians and Jews. It is Israel’s largest freshwater lake and appears in biblical episodes, such as the Sermon on the Mount, the multiplication of bread and fish, and the miracle of Jesus walking over the waters.