Biblioteca

Primary productivity (PP) is a vital oceanographic process generated by photoautotrophicorganisms that transform inorganic carbon into organic macronutrients and micronutrientsvia photosynthesis. While in situ studies have shed light onto the spatial and seasonal variationsof chlorophyll a (Chl a) concentration, and thus PP, in specific study sites, there are nocomprehensive monitoring programs to assess its long-term variation nor its seasonal patternsin broader areas of coastal Ecuador. The main objective of the present study is to evaluatechanges in Chl a concentration along the coast of Ecuador and examine how these changescorrespond to changes in Sea Surface Temperature (SST). Eighteen offshore and nearshoresampling sites along the Ecuadorian coast were studied over 15 years, using satellite measure-ments of MODIS-Aqua and MUR. Results show mean Chl a concentration in coastal Ecuador israther low (1.5 mg m−3) in comparison with other oceanic regions. Puerto Bolivar, Gulf ofGuayaquil and Esmeraldas were characterized by the highest mean Chl a concentration; whileGalera San Francisco Marine Reserve, Cojimies and Cabuyal were characterized by the lowest.A positive trend in Chl a concentration was detected at the southernmost (Puerto Bolivar andGulf of Guayaquil) and...