PrefaceSynthesis of Arctic Research (SOAR) in marine ecosystems of the Pacific Arctic

•Over the decade 2004-2013 dramatic environmental changes in the Pacific Arctic suggest a 'new normal' climate is emerging.•Variable advection and hydrographic processes are key influences on benthic hotspots for seabird and marine mammal predators.•Six bowhead whale core-use areas are identified, and body condition suggests bowheads are faring well despite sea ice loss.•The Arctic Marine Pulses (AMP) conceptual model aims to animate advection models and link to pelagic-benthic coupling models.

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