Generation of Bedforms by the Mediterranean Outflow Current at the Exit of the Strait of Gibraltar

8 pagesDuring the MOWER cruise, an ARGUS remotely operated vehicle (ROV) was used to image the effects of the bottom current dynamics of the Mediterranean Outflow Water (MOW) on the Cadiz contourite depositional system (CDS) (Atlantic Sea), at water depths of 500–700 m just downstream of the Strait of Gibraltar. The new images presented here show both longitudinal and transverse bedforms at different scales that are superimposed and coexist throughout the region. Their spatial distribution suggests a general decrease in the MOW velocity westward and the control of the type of bedforms over short distances by sediments and changing seafloor morphology. The superposition of the bedforms also suggests variability in the strength and direction of the bottom currentPeer Reviewe