Mesoscale-driven dispersion of early life stages of European eel

The larvae of the European eel travel an extensive distance approximately 5,000 km from spawning area in Sargasso Sea to coasts. We here study larval drift with focus on effects mesoscale processes, analyzing data a targeted survey and modeling possible trajectories. covered initial distribution Subtropical Convergence Zone (STCZ), which is characterized by complex patterns oceanic fronts eddies. During March–April 2014, sampling was carried out along north–south transects. Hydrography described using vertical CTD casts UCTD profiles, distributions assessed hauls large ring net. Patterns water mass particle dispersion dynamics were analyzed reconstruction diagnosis dynamics, combining satellite observations Argo profiles. Lagrangian trajectories subsequently simulated starting data-driven high-resolution 3D modeled flow. found delimited frontal zones, defined combined marked longitudinal salinity gradients large-scale zonal temperature variations. Modeled predominantly influenced current shear eddy strain, while direction mainly westward, significant dispersal also observed northeastward directions. Such almost isotropic transport eels supported historical size distribution, results challenge common interpretations drift, propose westward advection entire population Gulf Stream offshore edge Antilles current.