Mediterranean Outflow Water imprints on the deep cold-water coral reefs ecosystems on the Galicia Bank (Spain)

Abstract

An extensive set of multibeam bathymetry, high resolution multi-channelseismic data, and TOPAS and 3.5 kHzsub-bottom profiles acquired during BREOGHAM, ERGAP 1 and ERGAP2 have allowed the characterization of the imprints of the Mediterranean Outflow Water current on the Galicia Bank (NW iberian Margin). The study area, located from 600 to 1200 m water depth, has revealed a highly variable range of current-controlled morphological features and deep cold-water coralreefs. We have observed, based on backscatter images and seismic profiles, four main morphological features: bioconstructions, hardgrounds, and patches and fringes of sediment-biosediment. These features are a reflection of the along-slope mode of transport and morphologic constriction of the Mediterranean Outflow water