Upwelling

Engraulis encrasicolus is a small pelagic fish, commonly known as the European anchovy, that typically grows to about 10–15 cm in length.

The Benguela Current flows along southwest Africa, bringing cold water up from the deep sea that can be over 3,000 meters deep. This nutrient-rich upwelling fuels massive plankton blooms near the coast. The blooms attract fish, seabirds, and seals, making the area very rich in life. Near shore it is cool and foggy, while offshore the sea is clear but poor in food. Most threatened by recurring Dead Zone (natural hypoxia).

The California Current runs south along the U.S. West Coast. Winds push surface water away, pulling deep, cold water full of nutrients up to the surface. This “upwelling” fuels blooms of plankton that feed fish, seabirds, and whales. Seasonal changes make it one of the richest seas on Earth.

The Humboldt Current runs north along South America. It pulls up deep, nutrient-rich water that fuels massive plankton blooms. Anchovies, seabirds, and sea lions thrive here. It is one of the most productive fishing grounds on Earth.