The waters of the Sargasso Sea are characterized by higher sea surface temperatures compared to the rest of the North Atlantic Ocean. The warm waters of the Sargasso Sea are due to its location within the subtropical gyre, where warm ocean currents, such as the Gulf Stream and the North Atlantic Drift, converge. The average SST in the Sargasso Sea ranges between 20-25°C (68-77°F) throughout the year, making it one of the warmest regions in the North Atlantic.
2. Salinity:
The waters of the Sargasso Sea are also known for their high salinity. This high salinity is caused by the combination of high evaporation rates and limited freshwater input. As the warm waters of the Sargasso Sea evaporate, the salt concentration increases, resulting in higher salinity levels compared to the surrounding waters. The average salinity in the Sargasso Sea is around 36-37 parts per thousand (ppt), which is higher than the average ocean salinity of approximately 35 ppt.
3. Ocean Currents and Circulation:
The Sargasso Sea is influenced by a unique system of ocean currents and circulation patterns. It lies within the subtropical gyre of the North Atlantic Ocean, where warm currents, such as the Gulf Stream and the North Atlantic Drift, converge and form a clockwise circulation pattern. This circulation pattern creates a relatively calm and stable ocean environment within the Sargasso Sea, with less wave action compared to other parts of the North Atlantic.
4. Marine Life:
The Sargasso Sea is known for its distinct marine life. It serves as an important habitat for various marine species, including Sargassum seaweed, which gives the sea its name. Sargassum seaweed forms dense floating mats that provide shelter and food for a diverse range of marine organisms, such as fish, crabs, shrimp, and sea turtles. The Sargasso Sea is also a critical feeding ground for many migratory species, such as tuna, dolphins, and whales, which travel through the region during their migrations.
5. Marine Ecosystem and Productivity:
The high sea surface temperatures, salinity, and unique circulation patterns of the Sargasso Sea contribute to its distinct marine ecosystem and productivity. The warm and stable conditions support the growth of phytoplankton and zooplankton, which form the base of the marine food web. This productivity supports diverse marine life, including commercially important fish species and marine mammals.
Overall, the waters of the Sargasso Sea differ from the rest of the North Atlantic in terms of their sea surface temperature, salinity, ocean currents, marine life, and marine ecosystem productivity. These unique characteristics make the Sargasso Sea an ecologically important and fascinating region within the North Atlantic Ocean.
