Oceanic Phenomenon

Abstract

H.M.'s surveying ship Alert was recently engaged in searching for a “shoal” which was reported as existing some 200 miles to the southward of Tongatabu, in the South Pacific. In the course of the survey—which I may add tended to disprove the existence of any such shoal—it was observed that for several days the sea-surface exhibited large discoloured patches, due to the presence of a fluffy substance of a dull brown colour, and resembling in consistency the vegetable scum commonly seen on the stagnant water of ditches. This matter floated on the surface in irregular streaky patches, and also in finely-divided particles impregnated the sea-water to a depth of several feet. Samples for examination were obtained by “dipping” with a bucket, as well as by the tow-net. It seemed to be a Confervoid Alga.