The use of Lagrangian methods to model larval dispersal and
define dispersal kernels and population connectivity on the South
East U.S. Continental Shelf is described. First, adjustments to the
particle tracking algorithm are made to improve the separation rate
of numerical drifters from observed drifters. Second, a comparison
of observed and numerical drifter trajectories are used to provide a
Lagrangian characterization of the circulation on the shelf. It is
shown that, at certain times of year, retention might be quite high
on the central part of the shelf. Third, 2D larval dispersal kernels
are defined and the factors most important in determining these
dispersal kernels are quantified. I look at a combination of 5
factors: release time (month) and season, larval duration, release
location, larval dispersion and larval behavior. Results indicate that
adult behavior, in the form of spawning time and location, may be
more important than larval behavior in determining larval dispersal
on the inner- and mid- shelves in this region. Finally, I use a
coupled biophysical model to look at the dispersal of black sea
bass (Centropristis striata) larvae throughout the spawning season
for 2002-2004.