Covariation of mesoscale ocean color and sea-surface temperature patterns in the Sargasso Sea

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

5-24-2001

Abstract

During the lifetime of the Coastal Zone Color Scanner, there were 21 instances in which both satellite-derived ocean color and sea-surface temperature are simultaneously available over large areas of the Sargasso Sea. These images reveal close correspondence between mesoscale structures observed in temperature and pigment fields. In general, higher (lower) pigment biomass occurs in mesoscale features consisting of cold (warm) temperature anomalies. This relationship is consistent with the idea that upward displacement of isopycnals at the base of the euphotic zone by mesoscale eddies is an important mechanism of nutrient supply in the region. © 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Deep-Sea Research Part II: Topical Studies in Oceanography

Volume

48

Issue

8-9

Share

COinS