The peculiarity in color was undoubtedly owing to luminous particles floating in the water, and if we had remained on that spot until dark we should have seen that whole tract of ocean splendidly illuminated.
The cause of this singular phenomenon has given rise to many theories and much discussion among naturalists.

It was for a time contended that this phosphorescence was a quality of the water itself.

But later and more accurate observers ascertained beyond a doubt, that some marine worms and other insects were luminous.

On pursuing the investigation it is ascertained that the sea water is far less pure than has been supposed, and is often crowded with myriads of minute luminous animals.
It is now admitted that the phosphorescence of sea water is a property not belonging to itself, but is produced by animalcula, or microscopic creatures.

They are far more numerous in some tracts of ocean than in others, and all possess the power of producing a light, a spark, or flash at will.