In order to collect a maximum of data over a large geographical area, science is becoming participatory. In the field of plankton research, the P henomer is used to report observations of unusual color in the sea water.
Why report colored water phenomena?
The unusual color of the water can be the result of a proliferation of microalgae, also called phytoplankton bloom. The color of the water can be red, brown, green or even foamy with a significant mortality of marine animals.
These events are unpredictable and therefore difficult to study. However, phytoplankton is an extremely important element in the balance of our planet. It is the first link in the food chain and many species depend on it. It also produces half of our oxygen.
Reporting colored water phenomena is therefore part of a major scientific research program for the understanding of phytoplankton blooms.
How to report these events?
You can first download the mobile application Phenomer on your phone. Then, when you witness one of these blooms, you can simply report it from the application.
You will need to fill in the location and date of the event, the color of the water, estimate the size of the affected area and attach a photo. The application also explains how to take a seawater sample.
Reporting can also be done via an internet form and a telephone number is available on the Phenomer .
Who is responsible for this participatory application?
Phenomer is a project initiated and managed by Ifremer in collaboration with its partners. The research aims to study the conditions of development of blooms, the type of marine microalgae present in these blooms and their evolution over time.
