If you’ve been catching a mysterious, pungent smell around Playa Vista and nearby Westside neighborhoods lately, you’re not alone. This October, the culprit is dying bioluminescent algae—a natural occurrence with a distinct odor, reminiscent of rotting fish or sulfur. Let’s explore how the smell from ocean algae finds its way to the heart of Playa Vista, the nature of bioluminescent algae, and what residents can expect in terms of relief from this unusual stench.
How Ocean Smells Drift into Playa Vista and West Side Neighborhoods
The Pacific Ocean isn’t far from Playa Vista, and wind patterns play a big role in bringing coastal smells inland. During autumn, cooler temperatures and shifting breezes make it easier for ocean scents to travel further inland. When algae blooms die off in the water, the decaying organic material releases gas, which is easily carried by the onshore winds that many neighborhoods on the Westside experience this time of year. This seasonal change in wind patterns explains why coastal smells can suddenly seem much closer, bringing the smell of decomposing algae right to our streets and parks.
What Is Bioluminescent Algae and Why Does It Smell?
Bioluminescent algae, also known as dinoflagellates, are a type of microscopic plankton that light up when disturbed, creating the mesmerizing blue glow often seen along the California coast during bloom seasons. But as captivating as this phenomenon is, it has a downside. When these algae die, they release compounds, primarily sulfur-based ones like hydrogen sulfide, as they decompose. The sulfur compounds are what produce the smell—often compared to rotten eggs or a fish market—making the aftermath of bioluminescent blooms much less charming than the initial light show.
As bioluminescent algae die in large numbers, the gases they emit become especially noticeable, leading to the intense and, for some, overwhelming smell that neighbors are reporting this October. The strength of the smell varies depending on the concentration of decomposing algae and how quickly ocean currents and wind are able to disperse it.
The Smell: How and When It Will Dissipate
The smell of decomposing algae is generally sharp and lingering, with hints of sulfur that can make it smell like a cross between rotting fish and spoiled eggs. The stench tends to be particularly potent when ocean temperatures drop rapidly, causing a faster die-off of algae blooms. Although unpleasant, this is a natural process and is expected to dissipate as the algae population stabilizes and breaks down completely.
Residents can expect the smell to begin fading over the next few weeks as cooler autumn weather calms ocean waters and onshore winds reduce, limiting the reach of ocean odors inland. Weather patterns like rain or heavy winds may also help clear out the smell more quickly. Until then, those living near the coast may continue to catch occasional whiffs, especially during warmer days when decomposition speeds up.
For now, consider it an unintended side effect of living close to the ocean, and rest assured that the stench is temporary. In a few weeks, Playa Vista will return to its usual breezy state, and you can trade in the scent of decomposing algae for the fresh coastal air we all love.