Did you know there are waterfalls under the ocean? Well, sort of!
The most famous "underwater waterfall" is located off the coast of Mauritiusin the Indian Ocean. From above, it creates a breathtaking spectacle that looks like a massive waterfall flowing beneath the ocean's surface.
But here's the fascinating part - it's actually anoptical illusion!
What you're seeing is the movement of sand and siltbeing pulled down a submarine shelf or slope. The contrast between the darker sand and the lighter surrounding water creates the stunning waterfall-like appearance when viewed from above. This particular formation in Mauritius is located at the southwestern tip of the island, where a significant drop-off in the coastal shelf creates perfect conditions for this phenomenon.
Similar underwater "waterfalls" can be found in other locations including the Bahamas, Philippines, and near Greenland's coast, where glacial meltwater (which is colder and contains more sediment) sinks below warmer ocean water.
These magnificent illusions remind us that some of Earth's most spectacular sights aren't always what they appear to be!