The Kuroshio large meander and its various impacts: a review

Abstract

The Kuroshio south of Japan exhibits bimodal variations between large meander (LM) and non-LM paths. The Kuroshio LM drastically changes the distribution of currents and water temperature in the surface and subsurface layers, affecting atmospheric conditions, marine ecosystems, and fisheries resources. The most recent Kuroshio LM event occurred in August 2017 and is still continuing as of March 2025 (LM2017). Through studies of the long-lived LM2017, many new insights into the Kuroshio LM and its impact have been gained in recent years. This study aims to organize and share our current understanding of the Kuroshio LM and its impacts by reviewing past and present studies. Future directions for research on the Kuroshio LM and its impacts are also presented. This review advances the literature by covering not only the oceanic dynamics of the Kuroshio LM, but also its impacts on ocean conditions, atmospheric phenomena, lower ecosystems, and fisheries resources, thereby presenting the first attempt at such a comprehensive review of the Kuroshio LM.