Linking synoptic forcing and local mesoscale processes with biological dynamics off Ningaloo Reef

A hydrographic survey off Ningaloo Reef, northwest Australia, during austral autumn 2010 revealed that subsurface water masses remain relatively stable despite interannual variability of the Leeuwin Current (LC). The study found a consistent subsurface nitrate maximum (~110–230 m) across different water masses, suggesting local in situ remineralization of organic matter. Enhanced surface chlorophyll a levels offshore were linked to deeper mixed layer depths within downwelling-favorable LC regions, while nutrients were efficiently uplifted near the continental shelf by quasi-persistent cyclonic eddies. A wind-driven coastal upwelling event, characterized by a deep nutrient source (~100–150 m), promoted local and regional productivity through alongshore advection.

Rossi, V., Feng, M., Pattiaratchi, C., Roughan, M., & Waite, A. M. (2013). Linking synoptic forcing and local mesoscale processes with biological dynamics off Ningaloo Reef. Journal of Geophysical Research: Oceans, 118(3), 1211–1225. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/jgrc.20110