Ocean how many

Given the vast size of the ocean, it is impossible to know the exact number of species that live there. Research suggests, however, that the number of species in the ocean is decreasing. It is not all bad news, though. Researchers around the world continue to study marine life and habitats to help develop new strategies to preserve vital ocean ecosystems.

Scientists estimate that 91 percent of ocean species have yet to be classified , and that more than eighty percent of our ocean is unmapped, unobserved, and unexplored. Overfishing in the waters is also disturbing the marine life in this part of the ocean.

Spanning an area of ,, square km, the Pacific Ocean accounts for one-third of the total surface area of the planet. Large parts of the Pacific remain unexplored due to its great depths. However, in the relatively shallow waters off the coast of Australia and New Zealand, petroleum and natural gas deposits have been discovered. Pearl extraction is also common in the Pacific's waters. A large variety of fish like tuna, salmon, swordfish, herring, snapper, etc. Today, the Pacific Ocean and its marine life are not safe.

A large number of highly polluted rivers from the countries of southeast Asia and east Asia drain into this ocean, contaminating the waters with pollutants. Fertilizer and pesticide wash-off from agricultural fields, sewage, and industrial wastes all drain into the ocean via these rivers. Excess of oxygen depleting pollutants triggers hypoxia and creates dead zones in the ocean. Overfishing in the Pacific has also depleted its marine wealth greatly. A number of rare and threatened species is getting depleted in large numbers as bycatch.

It is the southernmost of the 5 regions of the Global Ocean and the fourth largest of the five. It is a deep ocean with depth ranging between 4, and 5, m across most parts. Researchers estimate that the Southern Ocean seabed is a storehouse of massive oil and gas fields, valuable minerals like gold, placer deposits, manganese nodules, and more. The icebergs of the Southern Ocean are treated as freshwater resources, sufficient to feed every person on Earth for a period of several months.

The Southern Ocean is also one of the most dangerous parts of the ocean for ships. Choppy seas, storms, and iceberg interventions are common.

The remoteness also prevents rescue missions from reaching the ships in need. The Southern Ocean is home to unique species specially adapted to survive the frigid weather conditions. Penguins, orcas, whales, seals, colossal squids are some of the most notable species of the Southern Ocean. A large number of migratory birds can be spotted in the oceanic region and Antarctica. These include terns, gulls, albatrosses, skuas, petrels, etc.

This section of the ocean lies between the Antarctic Peninsula and the South American continent. The temperature of the water ranges from 28 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The ocean floor is home to corals, sea spiders, sponges, and isopods. Studies show that the seabed holds gas and oil fields, gold, and other precious minerals. Disagreements have arisen, but for the time being, the Southern Ocean is still considered a major ocean.

Though a topic of debate, the answer to the question regarding the number of oceans depends on your perspective. Some experts acknowledge the autonomy of each of the five distinct bodies of water with their unique boundaries and environments.

Still, others in positions of authority disagree with this assessment. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The American Oceans Campaign is dedicated primarily to the restoration, protection, and preservation of the health and vitality of coastal waters, estuaries, bays, wetlands, and oceans. Have a question? Contact us today. Privacy Policy. American Oceans. Facebook Twitter Reddit Pinterest Email. Ocean Facts. Add comment. Typhoon vs. You may also like.

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