Why New Jersey Beaches Look Tropical This Week

There's a reason for the stunning blue-green waters off the South Jersey coast recently, a marine science professor at Stockon University says.

It goes by the unglamorous name of Phytoplankton.

The microscopic marine plants bloom when colder, nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, a process known as upwelling, according to The Press of Atlantic City.

“Phytoplankton contain chlorophyll, and especially when exposed to sunlight, reflect the turquoise-green wavelengths through the water,” Elizabeth Lacey said. "“The bloom is harmless to people and actually an important part of the food cycle, forming the base of the ocean food web."

The expanding drought in the Northeast, translates into less fresh water discharged into shore waters than usual, which could increase water clarity, said Bob Chant, a marine science professor at Rutgers University. "Rivers deposit fresh water sediment into the bays and oceans and make the water murkier and less transparent."

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Photo credit: Harvey Cedars Beach Patrol