Artificial intelligence has uncovered a dramatic global rise in floating algae, suggesting the oceans may be shifting into a new era of massive blooms. Researchers analyzed 1.2 million satellite images using a deep learning model to recognize subtle visual signals associated with algae floating at the surface. The analysis showed that both microalgal scum and macroalgal mats increased globally between 2003 and 2022. In some regions — particularly the tropical Atlantic and western Pacific — blooms increased by 13.4 percent annually, with the sharpest rise in biomass beginning after 2008. Scientists linked the spread to a combination of human activity (such as nutrient runoff) and natural climate variations (warming waters and changing currents). While floating algae can form important habitats and nursery grounds for marine species, large-scale blooms reaching coastlines can cause ecological damage, foul-smelling decay, and economic losses.
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