Characteristics of Mediterranean Mesoscale Eddies in Intrinsic Variability Hotspots

In the present study we investigate how the physical properties of mesoscale vortices are affected by and affect characteristics of Intrinsic Oceanic Variability (IOV) in selected areas of the Mediterranean Sea. Using the AVISO Global Mesoscale Eddy Data, we analyze the life-cycles and morphology of vortices in identified IOV hotspots, such as Algerian and Ionian Basins, as well as the northwestern part of the western subbasin, which are known areas where IOV is known to be particularly strong. Specifically, we examine how eddy frequency of occurrence, ellipticity, asymmetry and longevity correlate with simulated regional intrinsic variance. This research is supported by the Italian INVMED-P.R.I.N. project.