Tranzition Zone Chlorophyll Front
The North Pacific Transition Zone Chlorophyll Front (TZCF) is a dynamic, basin-wide feature characterized by rapidly changing chlorophyll concentrations, temperature, and nutrients , marking a boundary between subtropical and subarctic phytoplankton communities, and influencing marine ecosystems and fisheries. Here's a more detailed explanation: What it is: The TZCF is a zone of surface convergence where cool, vertically mixed, high chlorophyll water on the north side sinks beneath warm, stratified, low chlorophyll water on the south side. Location and Movement: It spans the east-west extent of the North Pacific and moves seasonally northward and southward within the North Pacific Transition Zone between 30°N and 45°N. Seasonal Dynamics: In the fall and winter, the TZCF moves southward, potentially due to strong winds moving nutrients across the boundary between gyres. In the spring, winds lessen and nutrient transport southward is reduced, caus...