The current knowledge on the argentine continental shelf water masses is summarized in this paper. These water masses are characterized as a function of water types fed by the boundary currents and the modifications due to continental runoff, and water energy exchange with the atmosphere. Based on sea surface salinity distributions and the temperature-salinity characteristics, three masses are described: coastal waters, mid-shelf waters and slope waters. The main freshwater sources found along the coast are identified, as well as high salinity formation areas. The vertical stratification, mainly controlled by temperature, is analyzed along the annual cycle. The stratification cycle is mainly driven by the heat exchange between the atmosphere and the ocean. Finally the oceanic fronts in the Argentine Sea are cited.

Bibligraphic reference/Referencia bibliográfica: Guerrero, R.A.; Piola, A.R. 1997. Masas de agua en la plataforma continental. En: Boschi, E.E.; ed. Antecedentes históricos de las exploraciones en el mar y las características ambientales. Mar del Plata: Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo Pesquero INIDEP. (El Mar Argentino y sus Recursos Pesqueros, 1) p.107-118

hidrografía, plataforma continental, circulación de agua, estratificación, frentes oceánicos, masas de agua

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