"Every year, between December and April, northerly winds create a rising current in the deep waters of the Gulf of Panama. This upwelling brings cold, nutrient-rich waters to the surface, protecting vulnerable coral reefs and triggering an explosion of ocean life. However, researchers now say the Panama Pacific upwelling has failed for the first time in over 40 years of records - and it could be a permanent change."
"Dr Aaron O'Dea, of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, told Daily Mail: 'Over 95 per cent of Panama's marine biomass comes from the Pacific side thanks to upwelling. 'It's the foundation of our most valuable marine export industry - nearly $200 million annually. 'Without upwelling, we'll likely see collapsed food webs, fisheries declines, and increased thermal stress on coral reefs that depend on this cooling.'"
Between December and April northerly winds traditionally drive a Panama Pacific upwelling that brings cold, nutrient-rich deep water to the surface, cooling sea surface temperatures to as low as 14.9°C and fueling abundant marine life. This year the upwelling failed: temperatures did not drop below 25°C until March 4, 42 days late, the cool period lasted only 12 days (82% shorter), and minima reached just 23.3°C. Over 95% of Panama's marine biomass originates from the Pacific upwelling, supporting nearly $200 million in marine exports. Collapse of the upwelling risks collapsed food webs, fisheries declines, and increased thermal stress on coral reefs, with climate change a potential driver.
Read at Mail Online
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