Oceanic Gyres
Oceanic gyres are large systems of rotating ocean currents that are primarily driven by wind patterns and the Earth's rotation. They play a crucial role in regulating climate by redistributing heat across the planet. There are five major gyres: the North Atlantic Gyre, South Atlantic Gyre, North Pacific Gyre, South Pacific Gyre, and the Indian Ocean Gyre.
These gyres are characterized by their circular motion, which creates areas of calm water known as "gyre centers." They also influence marine ecosystems by affecting nutrient distribution and the migration patterns of various species, including fish and marine mammals. Understanding gyres is essential for studying ocean health and climate change.