High-resolution in situ seawater temperature in coral reefs of Tayrona National Natural Park, Colombian Caribbean, 2010-2013

Along its rocky coastline with capes, inlets and bays, the TNNP is home to a variety of seagrass beds, mangroves and coral communities. The TNNP region experiences strong seasonal variations through the alternation of rainy and dry seasons, and the occurrence of a wind-driven coastal upwelling which can lower the seawater temperature by up to 10°C (from 30 to 20°C).

Seawater temperature is crucial for a range of biological (e.g. primary productivity) and physical ( e.g. gas solubility) processes in marine ecosystems. Increases in seawater temperature may cause coral bleaching events which are currently occurring more frequently and with higher intensity. Here, we provide the most comprehensive data set on high-resolution in situ seawater temperature continuously measured by calibrated HOBO TidBit v2 or HOBO Pendant temperature loggers with temporal intervals of 5 min between October 2010 and February 2013 in the four TNNP bays (Chengue, Gayraca, Neguanje, and Cinto) and at sites with different degree of exposition to winds, waves and water currents (exposed vs. sheltered sites) within each bay.