Southern Ocean
Table of Contents
A brand new ocean was created by the International Hydrographic Organization in 2000, called the Southern Ocean. Carving from portions in the south Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean and the Indian Oceans. This new ocean, wholly surrounds the Antarctica region. The average temperature of the water varies from -2°C to 10°C.
The Southern Ocean stretches from the Antarctica coast north to 60 deg. south latitude This body of water has become the fourth largest of the five oceans of the world. The Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans are larger but the Southern Ocean is larger than the Arctic. This addition of a new ocean has created gret debate, as to decide whether there should be five or four oceans on our earth.
While many consider that the world has only four oceans, namely the Arctic, Indian, Atlantic, and Pacific, people who accept the new fifth ocean, have called it the Southern Ocean or the Antarctic Ocean, as a result of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) efforts to demarcate the Southern Ocean. Naturally a debate erupted even as the IHO tried to put an end to it through its publication, Limits of Oceans and Seas (S-23), third edition, which declared, demarcated and named the newest fifth Ocean as the Southern Ocean.
The membership of the IHO is restricted to non landlocked countries, and thus it has 68 countries as members. When IHO took up the issue of the Southern Ocean, and requested its member countries as to what action has to be taken about the Southern Ocean, all the member nations responded, except for Argentina, agreeing that the ocean around the Antarctica should be formed and this oceanic region be named as the Southern Ocean. Out of the twenty eight responding member countries of IHO, eighteen countries preferred to call the new ocean, the Southern Ocean, instead of Antarctic Ocean, and hence the name, the Southern Ocean, was confirmed.
The boundaries of The Southern Ocean was considered and decided as all that part of the ocean surrounding the region of Antarctica, across all longitudinal degrees and till the 60 deb. Latitude as the northern boundary, which, incidentally, also is the boundary of the United Nations’ Antarctic Treaty. While all the member countries who responded to IHO, wanted 60 deg. south, seven members expressed preference of 50 deg. south, as the northern boundary of the Southern Ocean. Considering this, the IHO decided that as 60 deg. south, doesn’t encompass any land, while 50 deg. South, passes through South America, that 60°S should be decided as the northern boundary of the newly created Southern Ocean.
According to IHO, a lot of research connected with oceanography in recent times is concerned with circulations, due to El Nino and global warming which have raked up lot of world interest. IHO identified “Southern Circulation” as the main driver of ocean systems, which sets apart the Southern Ocean, as a distinct eco-system. IHO argues that this has promoted the term the Southern Ocean to be used to describe the huge water body lying south to the northern boundary. Thus the newest fifth Ocean of the World, the Southern Ocean, came into existence, with over 7.9 million square miles measuring twice the size of USA, becoming the fourth largest ocean. Home to the largest ocean current of the world, the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, the water body transports 100 times the river flows of the entire world.
Introduction to the Southern Ocean
What comes to your mind when you hear ‘Southern Ocean’? For many, it’s the final frontier of maritime mystery, a boundless expanse where the waves dance with the winds at the bottom of the world. It’s the ocean that might not have been part of your school geography lessons, but it’s one that holds keys to understanding our planet.
The Geographic Marvel
The Southern Ocean, encircling the continent of Antarctica, is a geographic spectacle. Imagine a colossal ring of water, the planet’s own watery embrace, linking the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. It’s a natural masterpiece that’s both a boundary and a bridge.
The Climate Controller
Did you know that the Southern Ocean is a colossal climate machine? It’s like the Earth’s thermostat, playing a critical role in absorbing carbon dioxide and distributing heat around our globe. It’s a silent guardian that does its job unassumingly but with unparalleled importance.
A Haven for Wildlife
Venture into the Southern Ocean, and you’ll find it teeming with life. From the majestic whales that glide through its depths to the penguins that huddle on its icy shores, it’s a living tapestry that’s vibrant and ever-changing.
The Icy Depths and Icebergs
Picture a world of blue, where icebergs roam like giants across a liquid plain. These frozen behemoths, born from the Antarctic ice shelf, tell a story of an environment that is harsh, pristine, and stunningly beautiful.
The Human Touch
Humans have dared to explore these waters, though the Southern Ocean is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a tale of bravery, from the earliest explorers to modern-day scientists, all drawn by the allure of the unknown.
Challenges and Threats
Yet, this ocean faces threats, from climate change to overfishing. It’s a delicate balance that we’re still learning to understand and respect. The question remains, how do we protect something so vast yet so vulnerable?
Research and Exploration
The Southern Ocean is a scientist’s dream, a natural laboratory where every drop of water can teach us something new. It’s a place where research ships become homes and the quest for knowledge is as endless as the ocean itself.
The Cultural Significance
This ocean has not only shaped the climate but cultures too. For the indigenous peoples of the Southern Hemisphere, it’s a part of their heritage, their stories, and their lives.
The Southern Ocean’s Economy
The waters are not just home to creatures but also to commerce. The Southern Ocean is a route for ships, a source of livelihoods, and a contributor to economies both local and global.
Navigating the Rough Seas
To sail the Southern Ocean is to dance with danger. Its waves are the stuff of legend, challenging even the most seasoned sailors. It’s a test of skill, courage, and resilience.
Conservation Efforts
Conserving the Southern Ocean is not just about preserving a place but protecting a vital part of our world’s ecosystem. Efforts range from international treaties to local initiatives, all with the goal of safeguarding this watery wonder.