The Alboran Sea is the westernmost portion of the Mediterranean Sea, lying between Spain on the north and Morocco on the south. The Strait of Gibraltar, which lies at the west end of the Alboran Sea, connects the Mediterranean with the Atlantic.
Surface currents in the Alboran Sea flow eastward, bringing water from the Atlantic into Mediterranean; deeper subsurface currents flow westward, carrying saltier Mediterranean water into the Atlantic.
There is often a rotary circulation, also known as a "gyre", in the Alboran Sea as a result of this exchange of water. The Alboran Sea is a transition zone between the two seas, containing a mix of Mediterranean and Atlantic species.
The Alboran Sea is habitat for the largest population of Bottlenose Dolphins in the western Mediterranean, is home to the last population of harbour porpoises in the Mediterranean, and is the most important feeding grounds for Loggerhead Sea Turtles in Europe. The Alboran sea also hosts important commercial fisheries, including sardines and swordfish. In 2003, the World Wildlife Fund raised concerns about the widespread drift net fishing endangering populations of dolphins, turtles, and other marine animals.
Several small islands dot the sea, including the Isla de Alborán. Most are controlled by Spain, including those closer to the Moroccan shore.
Other Mediterranean Seas:
Adriatic Sea | Aegean Sea | Alboran Sea | Balearic Sea | Ionian Sea | Ligurian Sea | Sea Of Marmara | Tyrrhenian Sea | Gulf Of Sidra
