A compilation of sea surface temperature anomalies from the Southwest Atlantic during the Common Era: challenges and opportunities to support future research

Abstract. Here, we present a compilation of sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies from the Southwest Atlantic during the Common Era. We aim to highlight the challenges and opportunities in advancing our understanding of regional ocean variability and allow to understand the reasons behind the notable scarcity of such records and explore how we can improve mechanisms to prevent misinterpretation and ensure that these efforts effectively support future research. About 24 records indicated that SST anomalies fluctuated throughout the entire Common Era, with values between (-5.84 to 0.62). The limited availability of high-resolution SST records constrains our ability to fully grasp regional climate dynamics and their broader implications for the global climate system. To address this, it is essential to prioritize acquiring records that minimize coastal influences, thereby providing clearer insights into large-scale oceanic and climatic patterns. Enhancing the representation of currently under-sampled regions is crucial for constructing a more comprehensive picture of Earth’s climate history. However, addressing these gaps involves more than data collection alone. It requires a concerted effort to produce and disseminate SST reconstructions spanning the Common Era, while also raising awareness of their value to the scientific community. Ultimately, such initiatives will enhance our ability to anticipate and respond to future climate change, equipping policymakers and communities with the knowledge necessary to build resilience and adapt to an increasingly dynamic climate system.