Humboldtáramlat

The Humboldt Current, also known as the Peru Current, is a cold ocean current that flows north along the west coast of South America. It originates in the Southern Ocean and flows northward, eventually merging with the Equatorial Counter Current. This current is characterized by its low temperature and high nutrient content, which supports a rich marine ecosystem.

The Humboldt Current plays a crucial role in the climate of the region, moderating coastal temperatures and contributing to the aridity of the Atacama Desert. The cold waters of the current also lead to the formation of fog, known as "garúa," which is a significant source of moisture for coastal vegetation.

The abundance of nutrients in the Humboldt Current fuels a massive plankton bloom, which in turn supports a diverse and productive fishery. This fishery is one of the largest in the world, with anchovies and sardines being the most commercially important species. The current's productivity also supports a large population of seabirds, such as guano birds, whose droppings are a valuable fertilizer.

However, the Humboldt Current is susceptible to variations in oceanographic conditions, most notably the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon. During El Niño events, warm surface waters from the western Pacific migrate eastward, suppressing the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water. This disruption can lead to a collapse of the fishery, with severe economic and ecological consequences. The variability of the Humboldt Current underscores its importance and the delicate balance of the marine environment it sustains.