The Canary Islands Oceanic Time-Series Station (ESTOC), a crucial observation platform located 112 kilometers north of the archipelago at a depth of 3,610 meters, continues to confirm a sustained increase in sea temperature around the Canary Islands. Operated by the Oceanic Platform of the Canary Islands (PLOCAN), ESTOC is an integral part of the EMSO-ERIC and ICOS scientific networks. Since 1994, it has been providing essential data on climate evolution in the Atlantic Ocean, with a focus on the Canary Islands region.
Recent data from ESTOC highlights the direct impact of rising sea temperatures on the Canary Islands' climate and ecology. While specific winter sea surface temperatures for early 2025 are not detailed, the long-term trend indicates a continued warming pattern. This warming can affect oxygen and nutrient exchange in surface layers, potentially impacting phytoplankton growth and the marine food chain.
Andrés Cianca from PLOCAN has previously noted temperature fluctuations, emphasizing that the overall trend indicates a decades-long increase. This ongoing warming trend could lead to diminished oxygen and nutrient exchange in surface layers, affecting phytoplankton growth and the marine food chain. Altered cycles could impact biodiversity, fishing, and the balance of oceanic habitats around the archipelago. ESTOC's continuous data collection is vital for monitoring these changes and integrating this information into international networks for broader analysis of the Atlantic Ocean's behavior.