Abstract

SALAS-PEREZ, JJ et al. Tidal characteristics in a coral reef system from the western Gulf of Mexico. Cienc. mar [online]. 2008, vol.34, n.4, pp.467-478. ISSN 0185-3880.

This study shows the computed tidal harmonic results from a sea level time series performed to elucidate the temporal and spatial behavior of tides in the Veracruz Reef System (western Gulf of Mexico). Data from 11 pressure sensors moored from October to December 2004 revealed that the predominant harmonics within the coral reef system were the diurnal K₁ and O₁ components, followed by the semidiurnal M₂ component. The fortnightly constituent showed an amplitude comparable to that of the M₂ harmonic. Tidal amplitudes showed small differences throughout the area when compared with the phases. Phase lags among different stations were induced by bathymetric effects.

Keywords : Bay of Campeche; Gulf of Mexico; tides; Veracruz Reef System.