The Atlantic Ocean with its unique thermohaline circulation pattern plays a crucial role in the global climate system: it is the only ocean in which heat is transported from the southern to the northern hemisphere, yielding the mild climate of Europe and influencing the climate globally. 20 scientists of American and German institutions, all actively engaged in studies as part of the 'Warmwatersphere of the Atlantic Ocean' program between 1980 and 1994, contributed to this volume.