Where is the Southern Ocean?
National Geographic will now consider The Southern Ocean: The Fifth Ocean in the world. It was officially recognized by IHO in 2000. National Geographic has been making maps for over a century and has consistently identified four oceans: The Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic Oceans. However, on World Oceans Day, which falls on June 8,2000. National Geographic will now consider the Southern Ocean as the fifth ocean in the world. The Southern Ocean extends from the coast of Antarctica north to 60 degrees south latitude
National Geographic Society Geographer Alex Tait explained that while scientists have always been aware of the Southern Ocean‘s existence, there has never been a global agreement to formally recognize it.
Which Ocean is known as the Southern Ocean?
Southern Ocean, also called the Antarctic Ocean. It surrounds Antarctica, below the line of latitude 60 degrees south. It used to be called the Antarctic Ocean or the South Polar before it was officially recognized as The Southern Ocean: The Fifth Ocean in the world. However, the IHO recognized it as a distinct ocean due to its unique oceanographic and biological characteristics.
The Mighty Circumpolar Current:
One of the most notable features of the Southern Ocean is its strong and continuous circumpolar current. Which is the largest current in the world. When Antarctica separated from South America, scientists estimate that it established the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) about 34 million years ago.
This current moves clockwise around Antarctica. It acts as a barrier between the colder, fresher waters to the north and the warmer, saltier waters to the south. The circumpolar current also plays an important role in the global oceanic conveyor belt, which regulates the Earth’s climate.
Home of Marine Life:
According to National Geographic Explorer in Residence Enric Sala, the Southern Ocean is home to a diverse range of marine life, including penguins, seals, and whales. It is also one of the most productive oceans in the world.
The Challenges Facing a Vital Ocean Ecosystem
Despite its importance, the Southern Ocean is facing several threats, including climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Climate change is causing the Ocean to warm and acidify. Which is having a significant impact on the ocean’s ecosystems. Overfishing, particularly of krill, is also a concern, as krill forms the base of the Southern Ocean‘s food chain.
World’s Largest Marine Protected Area:
To address these threats, there have been calls for better international cooperation to protect the Ocean. In 2016, the world’s largest marine protected area, covering 1.5 million square kilometers of the Southern Ocean, was established in the Ross Sea. This area is home to a diverse range of marine life, including penguins, seals, and whales. It provides a valuable refuge for these species.
This Ocean is a unique and important part of the world’s oceans. We must work together to preserve the Southern Ocean for future generations.
