Ocean Color Image Gallery

Frisian Frills

The Frisian Islands archipelago, stretching from the Netherlands to Denmark, separates the North Sea from the Wadden Sea; a large shallow body of water comprising tidal flats and wetlands. The remarkable biodiversity of the region, notably the fact that it is considered one of the world’s most important zones for migratory birds (10 to 12 million of them), has warranted its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage site.  

A springtime plankton bloom is visible off the Frisian coast, along with sediment plumes flowing from the Elbe, Weser, and Thames rivers. The colors from each of those in the waters of the German Bight, combined with movements from currents, winds, and tides create mesmerizing patterns.

This image was captured on April 2, 2023, by the Aqua-MODIS sensor.