What is the Humboldt Current?

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What is the Humboldt Current?

The Humboldt Current is a cold ocean current that flows northward along the western coast of South America. It is named after the German naturalist Alexander von Humboldt, who first described it in the early 19th century. The current is driven by the trade winds and is characterized by its high productivity and rich marine life. It brings cold, nutrient-rich waters from the Antarctic upwelling, supporting a diverse ecosystem and making it an important fishing ground.