Into the Sea of Blue
Saskia Sparshott
The incredible Noctiluca scintillans, commonly known as Sea Sparkle, is a bioluminescent species of dinoflagellate that resides in marine environments. When disturbed by waves or other movement, a beautiful blue glow can be seen by the naked eye. During daylight hours, Noctiluca scintillans in marine settings can be determined by the presence of cloudy, rosy pink discolouration in the water. The visual difference between day and night is quite remarkable. Noctiluca scintillans has been found in many areas of Tasmania’s coastline and never fails to excite photographers and general viewers alike. Image taken in Waub’s Bay, Bicheno.
BEAKER STREET SCIENCE PHOTOGRAPHY PRIZE
This photograph was a finalist in Beaker Street’s annual Science Photography Prize. This highly-respected prize invites all Tasmanians to showcase the wonders of our extraordinary part of the world — which is teeming with science and scientists. Finalist images are displayed at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery during Beaker Street Festival each August, with great prizes on offer for Judges’ and People’s Choice winners.
The Beaker Street Science Photography Prize would not be possible without the support of Full Gamut, Tasmania’s premier fine art printers and long-time sponsor of this competition. Many thanks also go to Pennicott Wilderness Journeys, which donates a generous prize for the People’s Choice winner.
