Pathways of economically relevant demersal species in the Ibiza Channel from a Lagrangian backtracking approach

Abstract

This work studies the most probable spatial origin of demersal species that eventually reach the Ibiza Channel after a dispersion stage, a region where water masses with different characteristics choke. Demersal species are assumed to be in a planktonic stage in which they behave as passive particles, being only advected by the dominant ocean currents. To find the origin we have performed a set of backward Lagrangian simulations using a high-resolution model of currents. As a result, we obtain the preferred pathways of dispersion for demersal species. A careful analysis of pathways provides useful information on the spatiotemporal variability of demersal and their origin weeks ago before they reach the Ibiza Channel. This information is very valuable from a conservation standpoint to determine the key regions that should be protected as eggs and larvae exportation areas.