Physical Drivers and Dominant Oceanographic Processes on the Uruguayan Margin (Southwestern Atlantic): A Review and a Conceptual Model

The Uruguayan continental margin (UCM), located in the Southwestern Atlantic margin’s subtropical region, is positioned a critical transitional region regarding global ocean circulation (Río de la Plata (RdlP) outflow and Brazil-Malvinas Confluence), as also reflected seafloor features (northernmost distribution of large depositional contourite system RdlP paleovalley). This complex oceanographic scenario occurring relatively small area highlights advantage considering UCM natural laboratory for research. present work provides first conceptual “control” model physical drivers (i.e., climate, geomorphology) main processes hydrodynamics, sediment, carbon dynamics) along UCM, reviewing synthesizing available relevant information based on functional integrated approach. Despite conspicuous knowledge gaps processes, general picture system’s functioning emerging this biophysical setting. includes conceptualizations actual controls, feedbacks, interactions responsible dynamics. structure adopted developing our models allows permanent improvement by empirical testing working hypothesis incorporating new scientific advances. These can be used baseline quantitative and, representations “pristine” conditions, stressors identifying sources stress ecological responses key attributes under transboundary