A group of Israeli scientists have found a way to “listen” to plants in order to detect the presence of different types of water pollution. By shinning a laser beam on small pieces of algae floating in the water, they’re able to hear sound waves that describe the types and levels of water contamination.

Algae is a “red light” for pollution because it’s the first thing to be affected. Scientists note that the sound method for testing for water contamination could become a faster, more accurate and less expensive way to detect deteriorating water conditions than those available now.

With a special underwater microphone, researchers are able to analyze the strength of the sound waves and determine the health of the algae and the condition of the surrounding water.

“Algae suffering from lead poisoning, like waste discharged from battery and paint manufacturing plants, will produce a different sound than those suffering from lack of iron or exposure to other toxins,” said researcher Yulia Pinchasov.

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