Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Red Snow
Apr 12, 2023
Red snow, a captivating phenomenon caused by green algae, is not just a rare sight; it’s accelerating global warming. Historical figures like Pliny the Elder and Charles Darwin have noted its curious existence. The algae, Clamidomonas nivalis, gives the snow its reddish hue, and its presence raises concerns about glacial melt predictions. There's also a dark side, with black market threats looming over rare plant species. And a lighthearted warning: steer clear of tasting red snow, as it may lead to unpleasant stomach issues!
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Red Snow Origins
- Red snow is a phenomenon caused by green algae.
- This has been known since at least the mid-19th century, when Darwin observed it.
Algae Identification
- The algae responsible for red snow is called Chlamydomonas nivalis.
- This green algae thrives in cold, high-altitude environments like the Arctic and Andes Mountains.
Red Pigment
- C. nivalis produces a red pigment called astaxanthin during warmer months.
- This pigment acts as a sunscreen, protecting the algae from excessive solar radiation.