Upwelling

An oceanic process in which cold water from the deep rises toward the surface of the ocean due to the effect of strong winds and the Earth’s rotation. This process allows nutrient and oxygen rich water to get to the surface. These nutrients are important for producers in the ocean such as phytoplankton which in turn provides food for primary consumers such as fish and birds. Upwelling around the Galapagos creates some of the richest oceans in the world.

 

Galapagos Graphics: In the northern hemisphere, if the wind blows parallel to the coast, then Ekman transport can produce a net movement of surface waters, potentially resulting in coastal upwelling © Lichtspiel

Upwellings bring water from deeper in the sea to the surface © Lichtspiel

 

Glossary of Galapagos