A lively debate has emerged among locals and other observers about the nature of algal blooms or lumot in Boracay. The key question at the heart of the discussion is whether these blooms represent a normal, natural occurrence, or if they are primarily driven by human activities on the island. Puka Beach, with its notably clear waters and absence of algae, serves as a contrasting backdrop to this ongoing debate, raising further questions about the factors influencing the marine environment in Boracay. In this article, we delve into these questions, exploring the complex interplay between natural conditions and human influences in shaping Boracay’s unique aquatic ecosystems.

Why does Puka Beach have little to no Algae or Lumot?

Puka Beach and White Beach in Boracay have different environmental conditions compared to white beach, which could explain the difference in algal presence between the two beaches:

Water circulation
Puka Beach might benefit from better water circulation and stronger wave action, which can help disperse and dilute the concentration of nutrients required for algae growth.

Marine environment
The marine ecosystems of the two beaches could have different ecological conditions, such as the presence of seagrass beds or coral reefs. These ecosystems can compete with algae for nutrients, limiting algal growth in certain areas like Puka Beach.

Natural factors
Environmental factors such as water temperature, salinity, and sunlight exposure may also differ between Puka Beach and White Beach, affecting the growth of algae in each location.

Human impact
White Beach is the most popular and developed area in Boracay, attracting a large number of tourists and businesses. Increased human activity,waste disposal, and runoffs from nearby establishments can introduce more nutrients into the water, promoting algal growth. In contrast, Puka Beach is less developed and less crowded, resulting in reduced nutrient input.

What Causes Algal Blooms at White Beach in Boracay During the Summer?

Algal blooms at White Beach in Boracay during the summer are primarily caused by a combination of natural and human-induced factors:

Water Temperature
Algae thrive in warmer conditions, which are typical during the summer months in Boracay. As the water temperature rises, it provides a conducive environment for the algae to multiply.

Sunlight
Extended daylight hours and more intense sunlight during the summer provide increased energy for photosynthesis, boosting algal growth.

Nutrient Availability
Algae require nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, to grow. These nutrients can come from various sources, including agricultural runoff, sewage, and waste from nearby establishments or activities.

Calm Waters
Algal blooms are more likely to occur in calm, still waters, which are common during the summer season at White Beach. This lack of water movement allows the algae to accumulate and grow on the water’s surface.

Human Activities
The summer season attracts more tourists to Boracay, particularly to popular spots like White Beach. This increase in human activity can lead to greater nutrient inputs (from sources like sewage and waste) into the water, further stimulating algal growth.

Circa 1984

The annual algal blooms at White Beach in Boracay during the summer months are a complex phenomenon, shaped by both natural conditions and human activities. While warmer water temperatures, increased sunlight, nutrient availability, and calm waters provide the ideal environment for algae to thrive, human activities, particularly the influx of tourists, further amplify these conditions. Understanding this interplay between nature and human influence is crucial for effective management and mitigation strategies. Despite the natural occurrence of these algal blooms, it’s important to strive for balance to maintain the health of the marine ecosystem, ensure the beauty of Boracay’s beaches, and protect human health. The relatively algae-free state of Puka Beach provides an interesting contrast and potentially valuable insights into achieving this balance. As we move forward, sustainable tourism practices and careful environmental stewardship will be key to preserving the unique beauty and ecological richness of Boracay.