Oceanographic characteristics of Lampung Bay and its relationship to the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) period 2013-2021

Abstract

The Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) may affect the distribution pattern of the sea surface temperature (SST) in the Indonesian seas. Understanding this impact is crucial for comprehending the dynamics of marine ecosystems, particularly in Lampung Bay. This study evaluates IOD effects on SST and associated upwelling/downwelling in Lampung Bay. 2014 fish catch data analysis reveals during negative IOD phases, SST increases (0.2°C to 2°C) with subsequent downwelling, coinciding with reduced catches (609.18 tons vs. 3,079 tons normal). Conversely, positive IOD phases show SST anomalies (-1°C to -2.5°C) with upwelling, correlating with increased catches to 3,349 tons in 2018. IOD-SST relationship primarily observed in Lampung Bay’s open connection to Sunda Strait (r=0.64 to 0.69), while weak correlations in coastal waters (r < 0.2) suggesting the influence of other factors on SST in Lampung Bay.