An algal bloom is spanning 100 miles in the Gulf of Maine

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • August 24, 2026

An unusually large algae bloom in the Gulf of Maine has researchers trying to understand its cause and possible effects. At its peak, the algae bloom extended from Penobscot Bay to Martha’s Vineyard. The bloom is comprised of a naturally occurring phytoplankton that is not toxic to humans or animals. Nicole Poulton of the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences said it’s hard to know what’s causing it, but the rapidly warming waters of the Gulf of Maine could be playing a role.