Bright red patches have appeared in recent days on the surface of the Sea of Galilee in Israel, raising concern.

Experts explain that the appearance of these patches is due to the green algae species Botryococcus braunii, which has proliferated in recent years.
As for the red color, it results from the accumulation of a natural pigment produced by the algae, combined with exposure to intense sunlight, according to the Ministry.

The pigment is not toxic, reports the Jerusalem Post. The relevant authority confirmed that, despite the discoloration, the waters of the Sea of Galilee remain safe for swimming, and no allergic reactions have been recorded.

All is well, scientists say—yet no one can resist making comparisons.
Even the Jerusalem Post notes that the sight evokes memories of the first of Pharaoh’s ten plagues, when the waters of the Nile turned the color of blood.