DEPROAS - Ecosystem Dynamics of the continental shelf of the SW Atlantic

DEPROAS is a multi-disciplinary programme, involving physical
oceanography, biological oceanography, geological oceanography and
meteorology.

DEPROAS has two main goals:

1) to examine the physical mechanisms responsible for seasonal
variations of the penetration of the South Atlantic Central Waters
(SACW) onto the continental shelf between Cabo de Sao Tome (22S) and
Sao Sebastiao (25S)on the coast of Brazil.

2) to understand the impact of seasonal penetration of the SACW on the
biological processes of the region's ecosystem.

Several social benefits are expected from the programme, for example,
the results will contribute to a better understanding of the cause and
effects of fluctuations in fish population, to obtain proper
information for adequate coastal management and to assess the
economical relevance of policies (ports, oil, fishing potential and
tourism).