The World’s Most Important Body of Water
Water is essential to human life, and all over the world, bodies of water nourish and sustain the ecosystems and communities that surrounds them. There are many different types of water on Earth, including lakes, rivers, oceans, seas and more. This article delves into the world’s most important body of water and the value it brings to people and the planet.
The Five Oceans
The world is made up of five oceans, which include the Arctic, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian and Southern Oceans. Their combined waters cover over 70 percent of the Earth’s surface area and are a crucial lifeline for both marine and coastal life. Here’s a look at each ocean in greater detail.
The Arctic Ocean – With an area of 14,056,000 square miles, the Arctic Ocean is the smallest of all five of the oceans. It’s made up of large ice sheets and frequently freezing temperatures, making it one of the most inhospitable regions on the planet. Despite its vastness, it is home to a surprisingly wide variety of sea life, including polar bears, whales, seals, and some species of seabirds.
The Pacific Ocean – Found in the northern and southern hemispheres, the Pacific Ocean is the largest of all the oceans, covering a total area of 64,186,000 square miles. It reaches from the Arctic to Antarctica and boasts the deepest point in its Mariana Trench. It is known for its rich biodiversity and is home to some of the most spectacular coral reefs on the planet. The Pacific is also important for its shipping route, as its many islands are an integral part of international trade.
The Atlantic Ocean – The Atlantic Ocean lies between Africa, Europe, and the Americas, and has a total area of 41,494,000 square miles. It is renowned for its maritime history, having been responsible for the consequential navigation of the Age of Exploration. It is home to both migratory and permanent populations of fish and marine life, and is known for its diverse and elaborate deep-sea habitats.
The Indian Ocean – The Indian Ocean is the third largest of the oceans with an area of 29,428,000 square miles. It is made up of many gulfs, seas and waterways that traverse through India, and inland to the Arabian Sea and Red Sea. This ocean is vital to global commerce and contains abundant aquatic life, including sharks, dolphins and migratory species. It plays a major role in maritime trade and is an important route for oil transportation.
The Southern Ocean – Covering an area of 20,327,000 square miles, the Southern Ocean is the fourth largest of the five oceans. It lies in the southern hemisphere, encircling the entire continent of Antarctica, and plays a pivotal role in regulating the Earth’s temperature. The Southern Ocean is home to many species of penguins, seals, whales and seabirds, and plays a vital role in the global carbon cycle.
The Importance Of Oceans
Oceans have many purposes, and their importance to the planet cannot be understated. Here are a few ways that oceans help sustain life:
Oxygen & Climate Regulation – Ocean plants produce a majority of the oxygen we breathe. In addition, the ocean absorbs a large amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which helps to regulate climate and keep temperatures stable.
Food Sources – Oceans are home to diverse and abundant aquatic species, and they provide a major source of food to many communities around the world. Marine life such as fish, crabs, lobsters and shellfish are important sources of nutrition, and their habitats are essential to preserve.
Coastal Protection – Many countries rely on coastline protection to safeguard their vulnerable shores from storms and coastal flooding. Oceans act as natural barriers to protect communities from extreme weather and provide a buffer zone to protect homes and businesses.
Medical Applications – Ocean waters contain a wealth of bioactive compounds that have medical applications, including pharmaceuticals and natural remedies. As our understanding of the ocean’s resources increases, so does its importance in our healthcare industry.
Oceans are integral to life on our planet. They play a major role in regulating climate, providing food sources, protecting coastlines, and creating a lifeline for international trade and travel. Oceans are truly one of the most important bodies of water on our planet, and their importance will remain key to Earth’s development and our own lives.
