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June 21 (UPI) — The mountain snow in Cache County, Utah, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The snow is taking on shades of red, pink, and orange, and experts believe that this phenomenon is due to the presence of watermelon snow. Visitors to the area have captured photos of the striking hue, and scientists have identified the cause as a type of green algae called Chlamydomonas nivalis. Interestingly, this algae is found in mountain ranges all over the world.
“The snow algae produce a pigment that darkens their cells, which serves as protection against UV rays. This pigment shields their DNA and organelles from damage because they live in such a bright environment,” explained Hotaling, as reported by KTVX-TV. He further added, “Additionally, this pigment allows their cells to absorb heat, melting the snow around them and giving them access to water. It’s a remarkable survival mechanism considering that we are surrounded by water but cannot access it.”
Earlier this year, scientists revealed that the abundance of algae in the western United States could be contributing to drought conditions. “There is growing evidence that these algal blooms are significantly contributing to the overall melting of snowpack in the West,” said Scott Hotaling, a professor in the Watershed Sciences Department at Utah State University, to KUER radio.
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