6CO2 + 6H2O + Light → C6H12O6 + 6O2
In photosynthesis aquatic plants will sometimes produce oxygen faster than it can be dissolved in water, causing small bubbles to form on their surface. The tiny beads may decorate the plants leaves or break off and drift to the surface. The event can only occur if the surrounding water is saturated, it must already be holding sufficient oxygen. This process is called pearling.