Spring in the Ocean

Image courtesy of Todd Trapani via Unsplash

What Changes Occur in the Spring?  

Just like the seasons change on land, the ocean undergoes seasonal changes. Specifically in Florida’s Atlantic Ocean, spring is a time of great changes. Snow and ice begin to melt and cause rivers to surge, carrying nutrients into coastal ocean waters. Northwest Atlantic waters begin to warm due to increased sun exposure, allowing the ocean to become fertile with phytoplankton and fish. Along with changes in phytoplankton, sea animals also migrate to find more comfortable waters in the spring. 

Phytoplankton 

Phytoplankton are microscopic marine algae that contain chlorophyll. These microorganisms provide the Earth with a range of benefits and are responsible for almost half of Earth’s primary production. This means they turn carbon dioxide, sunlight, and nutrients into the food that almost every aquatic being needs, making them the base for several food webs. Not only do phytoplankton feed animals like shellfish, whales, and zooplankton, but they are also oxygen producers. In the spring, the sunlight and nutrients in the ocean allow phytoplankton to thrive. 

Ocean Animal Migration 

Changes in weather and ocean temperatures cause many animals to move around in the spring. Around March, dozens of shark species begin their migration to Florida’s southeastern shorelines. Black tip sharks and spinner sharks are especially common around this time because they avoid the cold waters found in the north. Black tip sharks can be expected to arrive in Florida around mid-January, and stay in these waters for a few months. Great White sharks have also been spotted on occasion off Florida’s coasts. 

Another animal that travels in the spring is the sea turtle. Sea turtles leave the Mid-Atlantic area to avoid the cold, and female turtles make the return to their birthplaces to find a safe place to lay their eggs. Turtles migrate an impressive distance of 8,000 to 10,000 miles depending on where they travel from. Leatherback turtles are often known to have the greatest migrations because they can retain body heat that allows them to survive in colder waters. 

Right whales are an endangered species that spend their time migrating up north in the spring. They leave to find colder water in the warmer months. Newborn right whales stay close to their mothers in the spring, as this allows them to learn the migration route to travel. In the spring, right whales can be found near the northeast coast of the United States. 

Timoti’s Seafood Shak

Stop by Timoti’s Seafood Shak this spring to enjoy fresh seafood your family will love. Whether you’re looking for something fresh or fried, Timoti’s has options for everyone with locations convenient to Fernandina Beach, Ponte Vedra, St. Augustine, and St. Johns.