Nearshore surface temperatures in Antofagasta Bay (Chile) and adjacent upwelling centers

Pinones, A.; Castilla, J. C.; Guinez, R.; Largier, J. L.

Abstract

Several years of sea surface temperature data (1997-2003) for the coast of Antofagasta Bay-a semi-enclosed bay in northern Chile-were analyzed in order to further exploring the nature of a warm-water retention pattern inside the bay. Based on time series techniques, we were able to confirm the persistence of warm water in the bay. This warm feature was found immediately downwind of the upwelling center at Jorgillo Point, where temperatures averaged 2-3 degrees C more than at the exposed upwelling sites outside and the bay. Temporal and spatial patterns in sea surface temperature were determined and showed being well associated with wind variability, indicated by the significant correlation between the first empirical orthogonal function modes of temperature variability and wind forcing. We discuss how the persistence of this warm feature and the thermal gradients or frontal structures associated with it are likely to play an important role in retaining larvae or other planktonic organisms in the bay.

Más información

Título según WOS: Nearshore surface temperatures in Antofagasta Bay (Chile) and adjacent upwelling centers
Título de la Revista: CIENCIAS MARINAS
Volumen: 33
Número: 1
Editorial: INST INVESTIGACIONES OCEANOLOGICAS, U A B C
Fecha de publicación: 2007
Página de inicio: 37
Página final: 48
DOI:

10.7773/cm.v33i1.1226

Notas: ISI