Glowing blue bioluminescent waves return to Newport Beach

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- The neon blue bioluminescent waves are back in Newport Beach.

The glowing waves, visible at night, can be seen when algae in the water are stirred up and produce a chemical reaction that gives off the light.

The phenomenon is spotted a few times a year in the waters off the coast of Orange County.

Researchers have different theories behind the reason for bioluminescence, including that it helps scare off or confuse predators.

The footage was taken by SoCal photographer Patrick Coyne, who has also captured stunning images of dolphins swimming at night in the blue waves.

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