Temperate South America (TS)

The Temperate South America (TS) marine realm comprises the temperate and subtropical waters surrounding South America, including both its Pacific and Atlantic coasts. On the Pacific side, it is dominated by the cold, nutrient-rich Humboldt Current, which supports one of the world's most productive fisheries. On the Atlantic side, it is influenced by the warmer Brazil Current. The realm includes diverse coastal habitats such as the fjords and kelp forests of southern Chile and the extensive salt marshes of Argentina. It serves as a transition zone between the Tropical Atlantic and Pacific realms to the north and the Southern Ocean to the south. Notable species include various seals, sea lions, and the endangered southern river otter.