Wind and temperature controls on Alexandrium blooms (2000–2007) in Thau lagoon (Western Mediterranean)

•Wind patterns override factors controlling Alexandrium catenella blooms in Thau lagoon.•Surface water temperature impacts the seasonal development of blooms (spring and fall).•Southeasterly winds disperse the blooms, northwesterly winds terminate the blooms.•Maximal cell densities of Alexandrium catenella are related to calm period durations.