Mesoscale frontal structures in the Canary Upwelling System: New front and filament detection algorithms applied to spatial and temporal patterns

► We improved and created algorithms to detect mesoscale oceanic fronts and filaments. ► We quantified the improvement gained by using our new algorithms to detect fronts. ► We used our algorithms to characterise fronts and filaments of the Canary upwelling. ► In the Canary system, fronts are related to upwelling, coastline shape and season. ► We showed the general applicability of the front and filament detection methods.