The role of sea surface processes in anchovy larvae distribution in the Strait of Sicily (Central Mediterranean)

The European Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus, Linnaeus, 1758) is one of the most important resources of the Mediterranean Sea. Its population off the Mediterranean coasts exhibits a patchy distribution. Moreover, the influence of the environment on such a distribution, and its variability, is poorly known. We present a anchovy larval survey data and remote sensing data in the Strait of Sicily. We analyze larvae distribution and aging in the Strait with respect to sea surface currents and hydrographic/biogeochemical patterns. We find a strong correlation between the satellite date set, which in turn marks ocean and wind dynamics in the Strait, and the larvae distribution. Our analysis allows for the investigation of cross-shore transport processes of anchovy larvae.