We construct a Markov-chain representation of the surface-ocean Lagrangian
dynamics in a region occupied by the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) and adjacent portions
of the Caribbean Sea and North Atlantic using satellite-tracked drifter
trajectory data, the largest collection so far considered. From the analysis of
the eigenvectors of the transition matrix associated with the chain, we
identify almost-invariant attracting sets and their basins of attraction. With
this information we decompose the GoM's geography into weakly dynamically
interacting provinces, which constrain the connectivity between distant
locations within the GoM. Offshore oil exploration, oil spill contingency
planning, and fish larval connectivity assessment are among the many activities
that can benefit from the dynamical information carried in the geography
constructed here.Comment: Submitted to Scientific Report
