Coupled ocean wind and sea surface temperature patterns off the western Iberian Peninsula

Coccolithophore variability from the Shackleton Site (IODP Site U1385) through MIS 16-10

“…We propose that the coccolithophore behavior reflects an intensified contribution of the subtropical AzC during MIS 15.5 and 15.1 at the site location. Based on the modern hydrographic conditions this scenario could be related to a southward migration of the subtropical Azores High and weaker northerly winds, leading to a northward displacement of the warm AzC (Volkov and Fu, 2010;Peliz et al, 2005;Relvas et al, 2007;Sánchez et al, 2007). A different situation occurs during 15.4-2.…”

Spatial and depth-associated distribution patterns of shallow gorgonians in the Algarve coast (Portugal, NE Atlantic)

“…In particular, the coast between Ponta da Piedade and Armação de Pêra, where this study was conducted, is morphologically complex presenting rocky areas with cliffs forming small beaches, a large bay with extensive sandy beaches and dunes, including a coastal lagoon (Ria de Alvor) and a small estuary (Rio Arade). The shallow continental shelf (down to &30 m depth) is generally characterized by rocky outcrops with pockets of rubble and/ or sand (Gonçalves et al 2010) In general, the circulation patterns in the Iberian Peninsula are dominated by up-welling (summer) and downwelling (winter) events associated with northerly/southerly winds, coupled to the North Atlantic Oscillation (Sánchez et al 2007). Sea surface temperature presents marked seasonal variation depending on whether down-welling or up-welling dominates (ranging from 14 to 24°C, respectively; http://www.hidrografico.pt/), whereas salinity is fairly constant (35.0-36.0).…”

The North Atlantic Oscillation and sea surface temperature affect loggerhead abundance around the Strait of Gibraltar

“…In this marine area regional-scale processes are marked by the seasonal alternation of downwelling water masses (in winter) and upwelling water masses (in summer), which alter the SST. Sánchez et al (2007) showed that a regional-scale pattern that fluctuates between a cyclonic and an anticyclonic mode in the Gulf of Cadiz is associated with coupled wind-SST variability driven by the NAO. The SST, in turn, has been shown to affect local loggerhead abundance patterns (e.g.…”