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What is Upwelling?

Upwelling is a critical oceanographic phenomenon where deep, cold, and nutrient-rich water rises to the surface, replacing the warmer, nutrient-depleted surface water. This process is vital to marine ecosystems as it brings essential nutrients like nitrate and phosphate to the photic zone, where sunlight can drive photosynthesis. Consequently, upwelling zones are often rich in marine life and are crucial for global fisheries. Scuba divers find these regions particularly interesting due to the diverse and abundant marine species supported by the nutrient influx. Understanding upwelling is fundamental for appreciating its ecological and economic significance.