Algal Blooms in the Mediterranean Sea: a Retrospective Analysis Comparing the CZCS and SeaWIFS Historical Records

Yearly and monthly means of chlorophyll-like pigment concentration in surface waters, derived from the CZCS (1979-1984) and SeaWiFS (1998-2003) time series, were compared for the Mediterranean Sea. Both historical records show differences in pigment concentrations (lower for SeaWiFS than for CZCS) and blooming patterns between the various sub-basins, and the recurrence of several regional features. Higher concentrations recur in the cold season, when runoff and vertical mixing contribute to the enrichment of surface waters, and lower concentrations in the warm season, due to reduced runoff and water column stratification. This comparative analysis contributes to characterize the main Mediterranean ecological provinces.JRC.H.5-Rural, water and ecosystem resource