A natural phenomenon called "blue tears" illuminated the waters off the coast of Xiamen City, southeast China's Fujian Province on Saturday.

The blue tears are the result of a chemical reaction called bioluminescence. It occurs when "sea sparkles," also known as noctiluca scintillans, glow blue when disturbed by swimmers, waves or passing boats.

Although they can create scenic splendor, they are a form of red tide that can harm marine life.