Spectral properties of Noctiluca miliaris Suriray, a heterotrophic dinoflagellate

This note examines the role of Noctiluca miliaris Suriray, a heterotrophic dinoflagellate, as a spectral light absorber and compares its light absorption to that of other dinoflagellates. The discussion emphasizes that carotenoids are responsible for much of Noctiluca's orange coloration and that an algal heterotroph can significantly alter ocean color. A bloom of Noctiluca could be detected by the Coastal Zone Color Scanner thus causing error in the estimate of autotrophic pigments as well as estimates of primary production.