Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2007
Publication Title
Ciencias Marinas
Volume
33
Issue
1
Pages
37-48
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.
Original Publication Citation
Pinones, A., Castilla, J. C., Guinez, R., & Largier, J. L. (2007). Nearshore surface temperatures in Antofagasta Bay (Chile) and adjacent upwelling centers. Ciencias Marinas, 33(1), 37-48
Repository Citation
Piñones, A.; Castilla, J. C.; Guiñez, R.; and Largier, J. L., "Nearshore Surface Temperatures in Antofagasta Bay (Chile) and Adjacent Upwelling Centers" (2007). CCPO Publications. 192.
https://digitalcommons.odu.edu/ccpo_pubs/192