Modeling seasonal circulation, upwelling and tidal mixing in the Arafura and Timor Seas

The extensive shallow tropical seas off northern Australia, encompassing the Arafura and Timor Seas, have been identified as one of the most pristine marine environments on the planet. However, the remoteness and the absence of major industrial development that has contributed to this status have the additional consequence that relatively little is known about these systems. This study is the first to model oceanographic conditions across the tidally dominated Arafura and Timor Seas, and their seasonal variability. The results are based on a high-resolution (0.05°) ocean circulation model forced by realistic winds, waves and tides. The main focus of the study is on physical processes that influence the distributions of sediments and primary productivity across the system. Regions of high bottom stress and tidal mixing have been identified, including a large offshore area around Van Diemen Rise (Timor Sea). Lagrangian particle tracks have revealed a seasonal overturning cell that stretches across the Gulf of Carpentaria (Arafura Sea) with upwelling and downwelling on either side of the Gulf. The presence of coastal upwelling and downwelling is shown to provide a dynamically consistent explanation for the persistent turbid boundary layer observed around the shallow coastal waters of the Gulf.

► First model of ocean circulation across the Arafura and Timor Seas.
► Van Diemen Rise is a highly productive environment due to enhanced tidal mixing.
► Upwelling and downwelling circulations maintain turbid coastal boundary layers.