The Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

2027 Xiamen Symposium on Marine Environmental Sciences

January 12-15, 2027

Mesoscale eddy effect on the Strength of Shallow Meridional Overturning Circulation in the Indian Ocean
ID:1633 Poster Presentation

2027-01-15 17:00 (China Standard Time)

Session:Session 42 - Indian Ocean Under Stress: Dynamics, Biogeochemistry, and Productivity Shifts During Extreme Events

Abstract
The Indian Ocean Shallow Meridional Overturning Circulation (SMOC) significantly influences the Indian monsoon and global climate change by regulating heat balance. Using two reanalysis datasets and a series of ocean model experiments conducted at both high (eddy-resolving) and low resolutions, this study investigates how mesoscale eddies affect the strength of the Indian Subtropical Cell (STC), a key/major branch of the SMOC. The subtropical southern Indian Ocean (SSIO; 70°E-110°E, 35°S-20°S) serves as a significant subduction zone, characterized by high eddy kinetic energy, with its subduction rate closely linked to the intensity of the STC. In eddy-resolving models, the improved representation of mesoscale eddies enhances subduction rates, ultimately strengthening the simulation of STC strength through the northward spreading of subducted water masses. Eddy subduction contributes approximately 48.0% of the total subduction in eddy-resolving models, particularly in the subtropical southeast Indian Ocean (SEIO; 90°E–110°E, 35°S–20°S), where more eddies are present. Eddies accelerate changes in the mixed layer depth, resulting in a more pronounced mixed layer depth tendency term, thereby enhancing the subduction rate. This study enhances understanding of the impact of mesoscale processes on STC strength, shedding light on the mechanisms of tropical Indian Ocean circulation and its material-energy balance.
 
Speaker
Weiqi Hong South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences

Author
Weiqi Hong South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences

    Important Dates

    • Jan 30

      2026

      Session / Event proposals open

    • Mar 31

      2026

      Session / Event proposals close
      (Extended to April 7)

    • Apr 30

      2026

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    • Apr 30

      2026

      Abstract submissions & registration open

    • Jun 30

      2026

      Abstract submissions close
      (Extended to July 21)

    • Aug 31

      2026

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    • Sep 15

      2026

      Scientific program released

    • Oct 15

      2026

      Early bird registration closes

    • Jan 12–15

      2027

      XMAS 2027