"Ghostly Halos on Ocean Floor Cracked by Scientists After Years of Elusive Research"

Scientists Crack Decades-Old Mystery of Ghostly Halos on Ocean Floor A team of researchers from the University of California, San Diego has finally solved the enigma surrounding "ghostly halos" on the ocean floor off Southern California's coast. The study reveals that corroded metal barrels dumped decades ago contained caustic alkaline waste, not just DDT, leaving behind eerie white halos and transforming parts of the seafloor into toxic vents. According to the research published in September 2025, the barrels were discarded off the coast of Los Angeles in the past, leaking alkaline waste that has persisted for decades. The findings shed light on a previously unknown aspect of industrial dumping and its lasting impact on ocean ecosystems. "This is a significant discovery, as it highlights the long-term effects of human activities on marine life," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, lead researcher on the project. The study's results are based on surveys conducted in July 2021 by remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), which captured images of the corroded barrels and their surrounding environments. The images showed white halos forming around the barrels, indicating the presence of alkaline waste. "We were surprised to find that the barrels contained caustic alkaline waste, not just DDT," said Dr. Rodriguez. "This has significant implications for our understanding of industrial dumping and its impact on marine ecosystems." The research team used advanced technologies, including ROVs and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), to survey the seafloor and gather data on the extent of the damage caused by the leaking barrels. According to the study, the alkaline waste has transformed parts of the seafloor into poisonous vents, impacting marine life in the area. The discovery has significant implications for ocean conservation efforts and highlights the need for more stringent regulations on industrial dumping practices. "This study is a wake-up call for policymakers and industries to take action against industrial pollution," said Dr. John Taylor, an expert in oceanography at the University of California, Berkeley. "We must work together to protect our oceans and preserve their biodiversity." The researchers are now working with government agencies and environmental organizations to develop strategies for mitigating the effects of the leaking barrels and preventing similar incidents in the future. The study's findings also emphasize the importance of continued research into the impacts of industrial dumping on marine ecosystems. In conclusion, the discovery of caustic alkaline waste in corroded metal barrels dumped off Southern California's coast has shed light on a previously unknown aspect of industrial dumping and its lasting impact on ocean ecosystems. As researchers continue to study the effects of human activities on marine life, it is clear that more needs to be done to protect our oceans and preserve their biodiversity. Sources: University of California - San Diego Science Daily (September 10, 2025) Science Daily (unspecified date) This story was compiled from reports by Science Daily and Science Daily.