Retention time and transport potential of eddies in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico

Eddies are transient structures that strongly influence mean ocean circulation. They modify the distribution of mass and properties such as heat, salt, chlorophyll, and passive particles. The capacity of eddies to transport properties or particles depends on their retention capacity. In this study the mesoscale eddies of the northwestern Gulf of Mexico (NWGM) were identified and characterized through a Lagrangian method that allows estimating the retention time and the mass fraction that they can retain and transport. For the analysis, daily 1993-2016 altimetry data were used. A total of 254 eddies, 73 anticyclones, and 181 cyclones, were detected in the study period. Approximately 30% of total detected eddies were identified to occur in a region at 94.75 degrees W and 26.75 degrees N, between the 1,000- and 2,500-m isobaths. On average, eddy radius was similar to 40 km for isobath <1,000 m and similar to 70 km for isobath >2,500 m. Mesoscale eddies in the NWGM can transport similar to 60% of the mass they had when they were detected. On average, mass transport occurs over 33 d for cyclones and 26 d for anticyclones. It rarely occurs for 60 d or more.

Automated summary

Eddies, as transient structures in the ocean, have a significant impact on mean ocean circulation by modifying the distribution of mass and properties. A study on mesoscale eddies in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico revealed their distinct retention time and mass transport capacity in specific regions.