The Canary Current is a powerful and dynamic ocean current that flows along the western coast of Africa, from Cape Blanc in Mauritania down to Cape Verde. It is an important component of the global ocean circulation system, transporting vast amounts of water and heat from the tropics towards the polar regions.
However, there has been a longstanding debate among scientists about the temperature of the Canary Current. Some argue that it is warm, while others claim it is cold. This controversy stems from the fact that the current experiences various influences and interactions along its path, making it difficult to determine its exact temperature.
The warm proponents argue that the Canary Current originates from the warm waters of the Gulf of Guinea, where it absorbs heat and gains temperature. They believe that as it flows along the western coast of Africa, it retains its warmth and contributes to the overall temperature of the region. This perspective is supported by satellite data and temperature measurements taken by research vessels.
On the other hand, the cold proponents argue that the Canary Current is influenced by the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich waters from the deep ocean. Upwelling is a process in which winds push surface waters away, allowing cooler waters to rise to the surface. This process occurs along the western coast of Africa due to prevailing winds and the Coriolis effect. These cold waters then mix with the warm waters of the current, creating a dynamic and ever-changing temperature profile.
Overall, the temperature of the Canary Current is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that continues to be the subject of scientific inquiry. While it may possess both warm and cold characteristics at different points along its path, it is important to understand its temperature variability and how it impacts the surrounding ecosystem. Further research and advanced technologies are essential in unraveling the mysteries of this dynamic current.
Defining the Canary Current
The Canary Current, also known as the Canary Current System, is a significant ocean current that flows near the western coast of Africa in the eastern Atlantic Ocean. It is named after the Canary Islands, which lie close to the northwest coast of Africa.
The Canary Current is a cold ocean current that flows from the north to the south. It originates in the North Atlantic, near the Iberian Peninsula, where it is formed by a combination of the North Atlantic Current and the Canary Current. The North Atlantic Current brings warm water from tropical regions, while the Canary Current brings colder water from higher latitudes.
The defining characteristic of the Canary Current is its temperature. Despite its name, the Canary Current is not always cold, but it can be both warm and cold, depending on the season and location. During the summer months, the current is usually warmer, especially near the surface, due to the influence of the North Atlantic Current. However, during the winter months, the current is colder, as it brings cold water from higher latitudes southward.
The Canary Current plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of the eastern Atlantic Ocean. Its cold and nutrient-rich waters support a diverse range of marine life, including fish, marine mammals, and seabirds. The current also has significant impacts on regional climate and weather patterns, as well as on the economies of the countries along its path, as it affects fisheries and maritime activities. Understanding and monitoring the dynamic nature of the Canary Current is crucial for studying and predicting the changes in these ecosystems and for managing their resources sustainably.
The Origin of the Canary Current
The Canary Current is a major oceanic current located off the west coast of Africa. It is a product of complex interactions between various factors.
One of the primary factors influencing the Canary Current is the interaction between the warm, northward-flowing North Atlantic Drift and the cold, southward-flowing Canary Current. The North Atlantic Drift, also known as the Gulf Stream, brings warm water from the tropical regions towards the North Atlantic Ocean. As this warm water approaches the Canary Islands, it begins to cool down due to the influence of the cold Canary Current.
The Canary Current itself originates from the upwelling of cold water from the depths of the ocean. The trade winds blowing along the equator cause the warm surface waters to move westward, creating a divergence zone where the cold, nutrient-rich water is forced upwards. This cold water then flows southwards along the coast of Africa, giving rise to the Canary Current.
Another factor that influences the Canary Current is the presence of the Canary Islands themselves. These volcanic islands act as barriers to the flow of the current, causing it to split into two branches – the Canaries Coastal Current and the Cape Verde Current. The Canaries Coastal Current flows between the islands and the African mainland, while the Cape Verde Current flows to the south of the islands.
Overall, the origin of the Canary Current can be attributed to the interaction between the warm North Atlantic Drift and the cold upwelling of water from the depths of the ocean, as well as the presence of the Canary Islands. These complex interactions give rise to a dynamic and unique current that plays a crucial role in shaping the marine ecosystem of the region.
The Path of the Canary Current
The Canary Current is a major ocean current that flows along the western coast of Africa. It is a cold ocean current that originates from the cold waters of the Antarctic. The current moves northwards, carrying cold water from the Southern Ocean towards the equator.
The Canary Current gets its name from the Canary Islands, a group of volcanic islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa. The current passes through the Canary Islands before continuing its journey northwards.
The path of the Canary Current is influenced by the trade winds, which blow from the northeast towards the equator in the Northern Hemisphere and from the southeast towards the equator in the Southern Hemisphere. These winds push the surface waters of the ocean, causing the currents to flow in a circular motion.
As the Canary Current moves northwards, it gradually warms up due to the increasing temperatures of the surrounding waters. By the time it reaches the waters off the coast of Western Sahara and Mauritania, the Canary Current is no longer as cold as it was when it originated.
Despite being a cold current, the Canary Current has a significant impact on the climate of the regions it flows through. It brings cold, nutrient-rich waters to the coastal areas, supporting a diverse ecosystem of marine life. The current also influences the weather patterns of the nearby land areas.
In conclusion, the Canary Current is a cold ocean current that flows along the western coast of Africa. It is named after the Canary Islands and is influenced by the trade winds. While it starts off as a cold current, it gradually warms up as it moves northwards, impacting the climate of the regions it passes through.
Importance of the Canary Current
The Canary Current plays a crucial role in shaping the climate and marine ecosystems of the surrounding regions. This oceanic current, which flows southwestward along the coasts of Northwest Africa, has a significant impact on the local climate and biodiversity.
One of the key contributions of the Canary Current is its ability to transport nutrients from the deep ocean to the surface waters. This process, known as upwelling, occurs when the prevailing winds blow along the coast and push the surface waters away, allowing the cold, nutrient-rich waters from below to rise and replace them. These nutrients support the growth of phytoplankton, the base of the marine food chain.
Furthermore, the Canary Current influences the distribution of marine species in the region. The cold water brought by the current provides a favorable habitat for many species of fish, such as sardines, anchovies, and mackerel. These fish support important commercial fisheries, contributing to the local economy and food security.
On the other hand, the warm waters of the Canary Current have an impact on the climate and weather patterns of the neighboring land areas. The current helps to moderate the temperature and humidity, providing a more comfortable climate for human habitation. It also contributes to the formation of low-level coastal clouds, which have a cooling effect on the region.
In summary, the Canary Current is a complex and dynamic oceanic system that plays a vital role in the functioning of the marine ecosystems and climate patterns of the surrounding regions. Understanding its nature and behavior is crucial for predicting and managing the effects of warm or cold ocean currents on the environment and human activities.
Is the Canary Current Warm or Cold?
The Canary Current, also known as the Canary Island Current, is a cold oceanic current that flows southward along the northwest coast of Africa. It is named after the Canary Islands, which are located in the path of the current. The Canary Current is an important part of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) and plays a crucial role in the climate system of the region.
The Canary Current is primarily driven by the trade winds blowing from the northeast. These winds push the surface water of the Atlantic Ocean towards the equator, resulting in the formation of the cold Canary Current along the African coast. The cold water of the current brings nutrients from the deeper ocean layers to the surface, leading to high biological productivity and supporting diverse marine ecosystems.
Characteristics of the Canary Current:
– The Canary Current is relatively shallow, with an average depth of around 200 to 300 meters. However, it can reach depths of up to 1,000 meters in some areas.
– The temperature of the Canary Current is generally colder than the surrounding ocean waters. It is influenced by the upwelling of cold water from deeper ocean layers.
– The Canary Current is known for its strong, steady flow. It carries large amounts of water from the equator towards the higher latitudes and has a significant impact on the climate of the surrounding regions.
Importance of the Canary Current:
The Canary Current has significant implications for both the marine and terrestrial ecosystems of the region. The cold water of the current supports a diverse range of marine species, including fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. It also contributes to the development of productive fishing grounds and supports the livelihoods of local communities that rely on fishing.
Furthermore, the Canary Current plays a vital role in the regional climate system. It helps to transport heat and energy from the equator towards the higher latitudes, influencing weather patterns and climate conditions along the African coast. The current also impacts the formation of subtropical gyres and influences ocean circulation in the Atlantic Ocean.
In conclusion, the Canary Current is a cold oceanic current that flows along the northwest coast of Africa. While it is a relatively shallow current, it carries large amounts of cold water from the equator towards the higher latitudes. The Canary Current is significant for the marine ecosystems, fishing activities, and climate conditions of the region. Its cold temperature and steady flow make it a crucial component of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation.
Understanding the Temperature of the Canary Current
The Canary Current is a dynamic ocean current that flows along the west coast of Africa, from north to south. It plays an important role in the climate and marine ecosystems of the region, and its temperature is a key factor in understanding its behavior.
The temperature of the Canary Current can vary depending on several factors. One of the main factors is the influence of the trade winds, which blow from the northeast and create a cool, upwelling effect along the coast. This upwelling brings cold, nutrient-rich waters to the surface, resulting in a relatively low temperature in the current.
However, the temperature of the Canary Current is not always cold. There are times when it becomes warmer, particularly during El Niño events. El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon that occurs when the ocean temperatures in the eastern Pacific Ocean become unusually warm. This warming effect can extend to the Atlantic Ocean, including the Canary Current, leading to an increase in its temperature.
Factors affecting the temperature:
- The influence of the trade winds
- The presence of upwelling
- El Niño events in the Pacific Ocean
Significance of temperature variations:
Understanding the temperature variations in the Canary Current is crucial for predicting its behavior and its impact on the surrounding marine ecosystems. The temperature affects the distribution of marine species, including plankton, fish, and other organisms. It also plays a role in the formation and intensification of weather patterns, such as the development of storms and hurricanes.
Monitoring the temperature of the Canary Current is vital for scientists and researchers studying the dynamics of the current and its broader implications. By analyzing these temperature variations and their causes, we can gain a better understanding of the Canary Current and its role in the global climate system.
Factors Affecting the Temperature of the Canary Current
The temperature of the Canary Current, which flows along the western coast of Africa, can vary depending on several factors. These factors include:
- The direction and strength of the wind: The wind can influence the temperature of the Canary Current by causing upwelling or downwelling. Strong winds blowing from the north can cause cold upwelling, bringing colder water to the surface and resulting in a lower temperature. Conversely, weak winds or winds blowing from the south can cause downwelling, where warmer water is brought to the surface, resulting in a higher temperature.
- The proximity to the coast: The temperature of the Canary Current can be affected by its distance from the coast. When the current is closer to the coast, it can be influenced by the coastal topography and local weather conditions, which can result in variations in temperature.
- The season: The temperature of the Canary Current can also vary depending on the season. During the summer months, the current tends to be warmer due to increased solar radiation and higher air temperatures. In contrast, during the winter months, the current tends to be colder due to reduced solar radiation and lower air temperatures.
- The presence of other ocean currents: The temperature of the Canary Current can also be influenced by the presence of other ocean currents. For example, the Benguela Current, which flows along the western coast of southern Africa, can interact with the Canary Current and affect its temperature. If the Benguela Current is cold, it can cool the waters of the Canary Current, resulting in a colder temperature.
These factors interact with each other, leading to a complex and dynamic temperature pattern in the Canary Current. By understanding these factors and their interactions, scientists can better understand and predict the temperature variations in this important ocean current.
Thermal Stratification within the Canary Current
The Canary Current, a cold ocean current, flows along the northwest coast of Africa. It is known for its unique thermal stratification, characterized by distinct layers of warm and cold water. This thermal stratification is a result of the combined effects of various factors, including oceanic circulation patterns, wind patterns, and the Canary upwelling system.
At the surface, the Canary Current is relatively warm, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. This warm layer is influenced by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, which move eastward across the Atlantic Ocean. As the warm water flows along the coast, it undergoes cooling due to the influence of the cold Canary Current.
| Layer | Description |
|---|---|
| Warm Surface Layer | The top layer of the Canary Current, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. |
| Cold Intermediate Layer | A colder layer below the warm surface layer, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 18 degrees Celsius. |
| Cold Deep Layer | The coldest layer of the Canary Current, located below the cold intermediate layer, with temperatures ranging from 6 to 12 degrees Celsius. |
The presence of these different layers within the Canary Current creates a thermal stratification that has significant impacts on the marine ecosystem. It affects the distribution of nutrients, oxygen levels, and the abundance and distribution of marine species.
Understanding the thermal stratification within the Canary Current is crucial for further investigations into its dynamics. By studying these temperature variations, scientists can gain insights into the complex interactions between oceanic currents, atmospheric conditions, and the marine environment.
Heat Exchange in the Canary Current
The Canary Current is a powerful oceanic current that flows southwards along the coasts of Morocco and Western Sahara, and then turns west towards the Canary Islands. This current plays a critical role in the heat exchange between the cold waters of the North Atlantic and the warm waters of the Mediterranean.
The warm water of the Canary Current originates from the equatorial region, where it is heated by the intense sunlight. As this warm water flows towards the northwest, it interacts with the colder water of the North Atlantic. This exchange of heat between the warm and cold water masses is a key factor in the formation and maintenance of the Canary Current.
The warm water of the Canary Current is less dense than the cold water, so it tends to stay on the surface while the cold water sinks to deeper levels. This vertical movement of water is known as upwelling and it brings nutrient-rich water from the deep ocean to the surface. This upwelled water promotes the growth of phytoplankton, which forms the basis of the marine food chain in the region.
At the surface, the warm water of the Canary Current also interacts with the atmosphere, exchanging heat and moisture. This exchange plays a crucial role in shaping the local climate of the Canary Islands and the nearby coastal regions. The warm and humid air brought by the current can create favorable conditions for the development of clouds and rainfall, especially along the windward slopes of the islands.
| Warm Water | Cold Water |
|---|---|
| – Originates from the equatorial region | – Comes from the North Atlantic |
| – Less dense, stays on the surface | – More dense, sinks to deeper levels |
| – Promotes the growth of phytoplankton | – Provides nutrients to the deep ocean |
| – Influences local climate and rainfall | – Plays a role in shaping regional weather patterns |
In conclusion, the Canary Current acts as a conduit for heat exchange between the warm waters of the equatorial region and the cold waters of the North Atlantic. This exchange of heat is crucial for the formation and maintenance of the current, as well as for the local climate and marine ecosystem. Understanding the dynamics of the Canary Current is essential for studying the complex interactions between oceanic and atmospheric processes in this region.
The Role of Upwelling in the Canary Current
Upwelling plays a crucial role in the dynamic nature of the Canary Current, influencing its temperatures and overall characteristics. Upwelling refers to the process by which cold, nutrient-rich waters from the deep ocean rise to the surface. In the case of the Canary Current, upwelling is responsible for the presence of cool and cold water masses.
Upwelling in the Canary Current is driven by a combination of factors, including the prevailing winds, the Coriolis effect, and the shape of the ocean floor. The prevalent winds that blow along the coast of West Africa push surface waters offshore, allowing deeper waters to rise to the surface. This movement of cold water from the deep ocean is an essential mechanism that maintains the characteristic temperature of the Canary Current.
As the cold, nutrient-rich waters rise to the surface through upwelling, they provide a rich feeding ground for phytoplankton and other marine organisms. These microscopic plants form the base of the marine food chain and are vital for supporting large populations of fish and other marine life. The upwelling of cold water in the Canary Current thus contributes to the region’s overall productivity and biodiversity.
In addition to supporting a diverse ecosystem, upwelling in the Canary Current also has important implications for climate. The cold water that upwells along the coast of Northwest Africa helps to moderate temperatures in the region, acting as a natural air conditioner that cools the adjacent land. This cooling effect is particularly felt in coastal areas, where the upwelling of cold water creates a local climate that is cooler and more humid compared to the inland regions.
In summary, upwelling plays a crucial role in shaping the characteristics of the Canary Current. The cold, nutrient-rich waters that upwell along the coast of Northwest Africa not only support a diverse ecosystem but also influence the local climate. Understanding the dynamics of upwelling in the Canary Current is essential for comprehending the complex interplay between cold and warm water masses in the region.
Comparison of Warm and Cold Canary Currents
The canary current is a powerful ocean current that flows along the coasts of the Canary Islands and Western Africa. It plays a crucial role in the climate and ecosystems of the region.
The warm canary current is characterized by its high temperatures and originates from the tropics. It brings warm water from the equator and flows northward along the coasts. As it moves, the warm canary current influences weather patterns, providing moisture and warmth to the surrounding areas.
In contrast, the cold canary current is formed by the upwelling of deep, colder water from the ocean depths. It is driven by the prevailing winds and the Earth’s rotation. The cold canary current flows southward, carrying nutrients and oxygen-rich water to the surface.
While the warm canary current supports a diverse range of marine life, including tropical fish and corals, the cold canary current is vital for the productivity of the marine ecosystem. The upwelling of cold water brings nutrients to the surface, which fuels the growth of phytoplankton. These tiny plants are the base of the food chain and support the abundance of fish and other marine organisms.
Overall, the warm and cold canary currents have different characteristics and play different roles in the region’s climate and ecosystem. Understanding their dynamics is crucial for studying and predicting weather patterns, as well as managing fisheries and protecting marine resources.
Ecological Impact of the Canary Current
The Canary Current, whether warm or cold, has a significant ecological impact on the marine life in the region. This current provides a vital source of nutrients and food for various species, making it a critical part of the ecosystem.
One of the major ecological impacts is the formation of upwelling areas along the coast where the Canary Current flows. These upwelling areas bring cold, nutrient-rich waters to the surface, which supports the growth of phytoplankton. Phytoplankton forms the base of the food chain, and their abundance due to the upwelling promotes the growth of zooplankton and other small organisms.
The increased availability of food in these upwelling areas attracts a wide variety of marine species, including small fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. These species rely on the abundance of food provided by the Canary Current for their survival and reproduction. They are an essential part of the ecosystem, creating a complex food web that supports larger marine predators such as sharks and turtles.
Additionally, the Canary Current plays a role in the reproductive cycles of many marine species. The upwelling areas provide favorable conditions for the spawning and development of fish eggs and larvae. The availability of food and suitable habitat in these areas ensures the successful reproduction and growth of many commercially important fish species.
However, the ecological impact of the Canary Current is not limited to positive effects. The variations in temperature and nutrient availability caused by the warm or cold nature of the current can also result in changes to the ecosystem. Shifts in the distribution and abundance of species can occur, affecting the balance of the ecosystem and potentially impacting fisheries and other industries that depend on the marine environment.
In conclusion, the Canary Current, regardless of its temperature, has a profound ecological impact on the marine ecosystem. Its role in providing nutrients, supporting the food web, and facilitating reproduction of marine species makes it a crucial component of the region’s biodiversity. Understanding the dynamic nature of the Canary Current is essential for managing and conserving this valuable ecosystem.
Biodiversity Supported by the Canary Current
The Canary Current is a dynamic oceanic current that flows along the western coast of North Africa. Its unique characteristics make it a hotspot for biodiversity, supporting a rich and diverse ecosystem.
Warm and Cold Water Species
The Canary Current brings both warm and cold water species to the region, creating a unique mix of marine life. The warm waters attract species like dolphins, tuna, and marlins, which thrive in the higher temperatures. These species bring vibrant colors and agility to the ecosystem.
On the other hand, the cold waters brought by the Canary Current support the growth of phytoplankton and other food sources. This abundance of nutrients attracts cold-water species such as humpback whales, sharks, and sea turtles, which rely on these resources for their survival. These species bring balance and diversity to the ecosystem.
Migration and Reproduction
The Canary Current serves as a vital corridor for migratory species. Many marine animals, including whales, sharks, and birds, travel along the current during their annual migrations. The current provides them with a reliable pathway and a constant supply of food.
In addition to migration, the Canary Current also plays a crucial role in the reproductive cycles of various species. Some species, like sea turtles, migrate to the warm waters of the Canary Islands to lay their eggs. The current ensures a suitable environment for their reproduction, contributing to their population growth.
| Biodiversity Hotspots | Iconic Species |
|---|---|
| Cape Verde Islands | Humpback Whales |
| Mauritania | Sharks |
| Canary Islands | Sea Turtles |
The biodiversity supported by the Canary Current is not only important for the marine ecosystem but also for the local communities. Fishing and tourism industries rely on the rich biodiversity to sustain their livelihoods. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of the Canary Current is crucial in protecting and managing this valuable resource.
Marine Species and the Canary Current
The dynamic Canary Current, being either warm or cold, plays a crucial role in shaping the marine ecosystem along the western coast of Africa. The different temperatures of the current influence the distribution and abundance of various marine species in the region.
When the Canary Current is warm, it creates favorable conditions for the growth and reproduction of warm-water species such as tuna, dolphins, and marlins. These species thrive in the higher temperatures and find abundant food resources in the nutrient-rich waters.
On the other hand, when the Canary Current is cold, it creates a different set of circumstances for marine species. Cold-water species like sardines, mackerel, and anchovies are more abundant during this time. These species have adapted to the lower temperatures and are well-suited to survive in the cooler waters.
The temperature of the Canary Current also affects the migratory patterns of certain species. For example, some cold-water species migrate southward during warmer periods to follow the cold current, while warm-water species may follow the warm currents as they move northward. This dynamic movement of species is essential for their survival and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the area.
In addition to temperature, the Canary Current also influences the availability of nutrients in the water. Upwelling events, which occur when cold water from the deep ocean rises to the surface, bring nutrient-rich waters to the surface. These nutrients support the growth of phytoplankton, which forms the base of the marine food chain. The increased abundance of phytoplankton, in turn, attracts a diverse array of zooplankton, small fish, and other marine organisms.
In conclusion, the dynamic nature of the Canary Current, whether warm or cold, has a significant impact on the distribution and abundance of marine species along the western coast of Africa. Understanding these patterns is crucial for marine ecologists and conservationists as they work to protect and manage the delicate ecosystems in the region.
Climate Change and the Canary Current
The Canary Current, which flows along the northwest coast of Africa, is a critical component of the global climate system. It plays a vital role in regulating weather patterns and ocean currents in the region. As climate change continues to impact the planet, there are concerns about how it will affect this important current and the surrounding ecosystems.
Impact of Rising Temperatures
One of the major concerns is the potential for rising temperatures to disrupt the natural flow of the Canary Current. The current is primarily driven by the temperature difference between the cool Canary upwelling and the warmer surrounding waters. If the surrounding waters warm too much, this temperature gradient will decrease, impacting the strength and direction of the current.
Furthermore, warmer waters can lead to increased stratification, where there are distinct layers of water with different temperatures and densities. This can hinder the vertical mixing of nutrients and oxygen, affecting the productivity and health of the marine ecosystem.
Changing Precipitation Patterns
Climate change also influences precipitation patterns, which can have significant impacts on the Canary Current. Increased rainfall in the region can lead to higher river runoff, which can introduce excess freshwater into the coastal areas. This influx of freshwater can alter the salinity levels and disrupt the stability of the current.
In addition, changes in precipitation can affect the availability of nutrients in the water. Nutrient-rich runoff from rivers is a key source of sustenance for the marine organisms that inhabit the Canary Current. Any disruption in the balance of nutrients could have far-reaching consequences for the entire ecosystem.
Threats to Marine Life
As the Canary Current undergoes changes due to climate change, the marine life that relies on it for survival is also at risk. Many species, including fish, marine mammals, and seabirds, depend on the current’s nutrient-rich waters for food and habitat. If the current weakens or shifts, these species may struggle to find adequate resources, impacting their population dynamics and overall health.
- In summary, climate change has the potential to significantly alter the Canary Current, whether by warming the surrounding waters, changing precipitation patterns, or disrupting marine ecosystems. As researchers and scientists continue to study and monitor these changes, it is crucial to understand the implications for both the current and the life it supports.
Question-answer:
Is the canary current warm or cold?
The canary current is predominantly cold.
What causes the canary current?
The canary current is caused by the trade winds and the Coriolis effect.
Does the canary current have an impact on the climate of the surrounding areas?
Yes, the canary current has a significant impact on the climate of the surrounding areas. It helps to moderate the temperature and provides nutrients, affecting marine life and weather patterns.
What is the average speed of the canary current?
The average speed of the canary current is about 2-5 kilometers per hour.
How does the canary current affect fishing in the region?
The canary current supports a rich ecosystem and is an important fishing ground for commercial and recreational fishermen. The cold nutrient-rich waters attract a variety of fish species, making it a favorable location for fishing.
Why is the canary current called dynamic?
The canary current is called dynamic because it is constantly changing and shifting based on various factors such as wind patterns, water temperature, and oceanic currents.