ASSESSING THE CHLOROPHYLL-A VARIABILITY IN THE GULF OF GUINEA USING REMOTE SENSING DATA.

Introduction

The report begins by highlighting the importance of oceans in influencing the Earth’s climate and supporting marine life. It focuses on phytoplankton, which are crucial for the marine food web and global carbon cycle. The study aims to evaluate the variability of chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) and sea surface temperature (SST) in the Gulf of Guinea using satellite remote sensing data.

Materials and Methods

Study Site: The Gulf of Guinea, located on the eastern edge of the Atlantic Ocean, bordered by several West African countries.

Data: Monthly Chl-a and SST data from the Aqua-MODIS satellite, covering the period from 2020 to 2022.

Methods: Analysis of satellite images using Python programming to evaluate spatiotemporal variability and conduct time series analysis.

Results and Discussion

Chlorophyll-a Variability: The study found significant spatial and temporal variability in Chl-a concentrations, with higher values near the coastline due to nutrient inputs from rivers and coastal upwelling.

Sea Surface Temperature Variability: SST showed relatively uniform spatial distribution but notable seasonal and interannual variability, influenced by climatic phenomena like the West African Monsoon.

Interannual and Monthly Climatology Variability: The report discusses the seasonal patterns and the influence of environmental factors on Chl-a and SST.

Conclusion

The study concludes that Chl-a concentrations are higher near the coast due to nutrient inputs and coastal upwelling, while SST shows a consistent seasonal cycle. These findings provide insights into the dynamic nature of marine productivity in the Gulf of Guinea and the influence of environmental factors on phytoplankton biomass.