Benthic foraminifera from sediment cores collected in the Gulf of Cadiz were analysed to track ocean changes between 1014 and 761 kyr ago. Our results reveal shifts in species composition throughout the climate cycles. Oxygen loss occurred in the Mediterranean Outflow Water during warmer periods when solar insolation was intensified and productivity was higher. During cold periods, stronger bottom currents were identified by sand content and the abundance of the species Planulina ariminensis.