Characteristics of Eulerian mesoscale eddies in the Gulf of Mexico

Although numerous studies on Eulerian mesoscale eddies with closed contours of sea surface height (SSH) or streamline have been conducted in the Gulf Mexico (GoM), a comprehensive study their temporal and spatial characteristics is still lacking. In this study, we combine three eddy detection algorithms to detect from 26-year SSH record GoM examine characteristics. We find distinct between Loop Current Eddies (LCEs), Frontal (LCFEs), that are not directly related (LC). Many LCEs LCFEs eastern closely LC. More formed January July than August December, likely seasonal variation northward penetration However, formation non-LCFE cyclonic shows biannual variability, which could be linked position strength background current western GoM. Nevertheless, variability large uncertainties (not significant at 95% confidence level). Low-frequency (interannual multidecadal) also detected. GoM, extent LC can affect generation result low-frequency variations. occurrence amplitude circulation strength.