Key Oceanographic Factors Supporting California's Sardine Population

Critical Physical Properties

• Water Temperature: Ideal range 59–68°F (15–20°C); sardines thrive in the warm California Current.
• Salinity: ~35 ppt (typical seawater).
• Oxygen Content: Minimum ~4 ppm dissolved oxygen.
• pH: Preferred 7.8–8.2.
• Upwelling: Cold, nutrient-rich deep water rises, fueling phytoplankton growth—the base of the sardine food web.
• Ocean Currents: Transport food and influence distribution.
• Habitat: Kelp forests (shelter/food), sandy beaches, rocky shores (spawning).

These factors collectively sustain the sardine population off California's coast.