DEPROAS - Ecosystem Dynamics of the continental shelf of the SW Atlantic

DEPROAS has two main goals: 1) to examine the physical mechanisms responsible for seasonal variations of the penetration of the South Atlantic Central Waters (SACW) onto the continental shelf between Cabo de Sao Tome (22S) and Sao Sebastiao (25S)on the coast of Brazil. 2) to understand the impact of seasonal penetration of the SACW on the biological processes of the region's ecosystem.

Several social benefits are expected from the programme, for example, the results will contribute to a better understanding of the cause and effects of fluctuations in fish population, to obtain proper information for adequate coastal management and to assess the economical relevance of policies (ports, oil, fishing potential and tourism).