This podcast episode explores the phenomenon of red snow, a rare occurrence caused by a type of green algae called Clemitomonas nivalis. This algae thrives in cold environments and produces a red pigment called astaxanthin during warmer seasons, acting as a sunscreen to protect itself from excessive solar radiation. The blooms of red snow can accelerate glacier melting due to its darker color absorbing more heat and creating a feedback loop. It is important to include red snow blooms in climate models to accurately predict glacial melting and sea level rise.
