Eddy-mean flow decomposition and eddy diffusivity estimates in the Tropical Pacific Ocean

Lagrangian data in the Tropical Pacific Ocean have been analyzed with the goal of determining eddy diffusivity and dispersion properties. Various quasi-homogeneous regions have been identified and characterized. Equatorial and sub-equatorial regions appear characterized by equatorial waves and TIW activity. They can be described as a stochastic process of order higher than one, while the long term behaviour is characterized by asymptotic diffusivity. Results provode general estimates to be used in climatological models.