An Unusual and Massive Bloom of Tetraselmis Sp. in the Valparaiso Bay, Chile

An intense bloom of Tetraselmis sp., producing strong water discoloration was observed from December 28th of 2005 through January 10th of 2006 in the Valparaiso Bay (32º 57’S; 71º 33’W). Blooms of Tetraselmis sp. have never been reported in this bay, or along the coast of Chile. The confluence of a series of environmental conditions observed before and during the bloom such as: high solar radiation, anomalous UV radiation levels, high sea surface temperatures, water stratification and high nutrient concentrations may have contributed to the development of this unique event.