Satellite-derived ocean climatology around Santo Antão Island: 20 years of surface and near-surface observations
Progress in Oceanography, vol.240, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 240
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.pocean.2025.103611
- Journal Name: Progress in Oceanography
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Compendex, Environment Index, Geobase, INSPEC
- Keywords: Santo Anta o Island, Cape Verde, Climate Studies, MODIS-Aqua, Temporal Variability
- Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
Understanding the implications of climate change is especially critical for the Cape Verde Islands, which are acutely vulnerable to climate variability and its associated impacts. This study characterised the temporal variability of surface and near-surface biophysical properties around Santo Antão using 20 years of MODIS-Aqua Level-2 imagery at 1 km resolution for Ocean Colour and Thermal Infrared parameters. The results of this study show that the waters around this island exhibited stable Sea Surface Temperature conditions with a pronounced seasonal cycle and no long-term warming over two decades, contrasting with global trends. Bio-optical parameters (Chlorophyll a, Diffuse Attenuation Coefficient and Particulate Organic Carbon) reflected the oligotrophic nature of the waters, with slight positive trends hinting at increasing concentrations of primary productivity. Consistently high levels of Photosynthetically Available Radiation affirmed light is not a limiting factor, with nutrient dynamics likely playing a dominant role. Particulate Inorganic Carbon displayed distinct variability, with no significant trends, underscoring the need for further research into its unique drivers. Based on ocean surface temperature cycles, the newly proposed seasonal classification successfully captured the dynamics of key parameters and demonstrated the value of satellite-derived data for long-term ecosystem monitoring. These findings enhanced the understanding of Santo Antão's oceanographic dynamics and highlight the importance of regionally specific studies to complement global assessments. The results also provide a valuable baseline to support future research and inform conservation strategies and sustainable marine resource management in the Cape Verde region.