Lateral Transport and Connectivity in the GoM

To test hypotheses and to characterize lateral processes, there is perhaps no better region than the Gulf of Mexico; for it’s small size and it’s quick surface currents (both relative to ocean basins) are coupled to strong spatial gradients in nutrient inventories, Chlorophyll concentrations, and biomass. This connectivity can be best seen through a series of animations.

Each animation starts at May 31st and runs backwards in time to January 2nd with 250 particles released during each cycle.

Static Images

Click on any of the thumbnails below to see full size image. Each show the full back trajectories running from May 31st to Jan 2nd with particles released at the during the time/location of cycle measurements (i.e. drifter).