Overview
- As of late December 28–29, the glow remained visible along Punta del Este, with standout sightings on La Brava’s breaking waves and at the shoreline on Playa Mansa.
- Local officials identified Alexandrum affine as the predominant species, terracotta by day and intensely blue at night.
- The light is triggered when the organisms release luciferase in response to wave action or human movement in the water.
- Authorities say the microorganisms are not toxic, though prolonged exposure can occasionally cause mild skin irritation.
- Night swimming is not nationally banned, but lifeguards operate only in daytime and the naval prefecture prohibits bathing outside authorized zones; storms or current shifts could disperse the bloom at any time.