HumboldtPeruströmmen

The HumboldtPeruströmmen, also known as the Peru Current, is a cold ocean current that flows north along the western coast of South America. It originates in the Southern Ocean and carries cold, nutrient-rich waters from the Antarctic region. This nutrient upwelling significantly supports a rich marine ecosystem, making the waters off the coast of Peru one of the most productive fishing grounds in the world.

The current's cold temperature has a profound impact on the climate of the coastal regions it affects. It leads to arid or semi-arid conditions in the Atacama Desert and the coastal areas of Peru, as the cold water cools the air above it, reducing its ability to hold moisture. This phenomenon is responsible for the frequent fog, known as "garúa," that often blankets the coastline.

The strength and behavior of the HumboldtPeruströmmen are closely linked to El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events. During El Niño phases, the current weakens, and warm surface waters from the western Pacific move eastward, disrupting the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water. This disruption can lead to a sharp decline in fish populations, impacting the fishing industry and the entire marine food web. Conversely, during La Niña phases, the HumboldtPeruströmmen typically strengthens, leading to more favorable conditions for marine life.