Integration of MTG-FCI detection maps into ocean biogeochemical models
Sargassum proliferation and drift depend on a wide range of environmental factors, including ocean currents, nutrient supply, light availability, and atmospheric conditions. To anticipate their movements and beaching, observations alone are not sufficient — they need to be combined with models that can simulate the algae’s growth and transport.
In WP2, we will adapt and improve NEMO-Sarg, a state-of-the-art ocean–biogeochemical model dedicated to sargassum. The new high-frequency detection products from WP1 will be integrated as initial and boundary conditions, reducing uncertainties caused by cloud cover and limited satellite coverage. This will allow us to capture short-term dynamics such as daily drift, as well as seasonal patterns of sargassum re-emergence and aggregation.
The objective is to deliver a sub-daily to seasonal forecasting system able to track sargassum from their source regions in the eastern tropical Atlantic to their potential landings in the Caribbean and West Africa. This integrated approach will improve our understanding of the sargassum life cycle and provide more reliable information for operational forecasting and risk management.