García-Lafuente, J., Sammartino, S., Huertas, I. E., Flecha, S., Sánchez-Leal, R. F., Naranjo, C., Nadal, I., & Bellanco, M. J. (2021). Hotter and Weaker Mediterranean Outflow as a Response to Basin-Wide Alterations. Frontiers in Marine Science, 8, 150. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2021.613444
Summary
Time series collected from 2004 to 2020 at an oceanographic station located nearby the Strait of Gibraltar to monitor the Mediterranean outflow into the North Atlantic. Data collected at this station provides insights into changes occurring in the Mediterranean basin. The water mass exchange at the Strait of Gibraltar has decreased slightly and a warming trend was recorded in the deepest layer of the outflow from 2013 onwards. This trend is an order of magnitude greater than any other reported so far in the water masses of the Mediterranean Sea. Biogeochemical (pH) data display a negative trend indicating a gradual acidification of the outflow in the monitoring station. According to data analysis of this study, Levantine Intermediate Water contribution in the outflow is progressively getting larger. This study adds to growing evidence of the impact of acidification and warming of the Mediterranean Sea basin.
Policy relevant message:
This study adds to growing evidence that the Mediterranean Sea is progressively getting warmer and more acidic and therefore more corrosive to many vital marine species.