Country Profile: Southern Ocean
The Southern Ocean, recognized as the world’s fourth largest ocean basin, encircles Antarctica and plays a pivotal role in global ocean circulation. Its geography is characterized by extreme cold, with nutrient-rich waters that support a diverse marine ecosystem. Although it does not have a resident human population, the Southern Ocean is influenced by international governance and environmental agreements, notably those pertaining to whaling and fishing activities. The economy is primarily driven by marine resource harvesting, including fishing, with notable production of Antarctic krill.
Geography
The Southern Ocean spans from 60 degrees south latitude to the coast of Antarctica, encircling the continent in a unique circumferential manner. With a total area of 21.96 million sq km, the ocean is roughly twice the size of the United States, featuring various geographical formations, such as the South Sandwich Trench, which is the deepest point at 7,434 m below sea level.
- Coastline: 17,968 km
- Mean depth: 3,270 m
- Ocean volume: 71.8 million cu km, comprising 5.4% of the world’s total ocean volume.
- Major current: The Antarctic Circumpolar Current is the world's strongest, moving 130 million cubic meters of water per second.
- Climate: Sea temperatures range from 10°C to -2°C, with severe cyclonic storms common due to temperature variations.
Environment
The Southern Ocean faces challenges from both natural phenomena and human activity, affecting its physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. The region is subject to several international environmental agreements that regulate its resources and conservation efforts. Specifically, commercial whaling is prohibited south of 40 degrees south latitude, and there are strict regulations on fishing practices to protect marine life.
- Marine fisheries catch: A total of 388,901 metric tons was recorded in 2021.
- Krill dominance: Antarctic krill constituted 95.5% of the total catch in 2021.
- International treaties: Governed by multiple agreements, including the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.
Government
The Southern Ocean's designation and governance are derived from various international treaties and conventions. Although the International Hydrographic Organization has not formally adopted the Southern Ocean as a distinct body of water, it is recognized by many nations and organizations across the globe.
Transportation
The Southern Ocean is navigated primarily through the Drake Passage, which provides an alternative route to the Panama Canal for maritime transit. This area is significant for shipping routes connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Area | 21.96 million sq km | Total area of the Southern Ocean |
| Coastline | 17,968 km | Total coastline length |
| Ocean Volume | 71.8 million cu km | Total volume of the Southern Ocean |
| Mean Depth | -3,270 m | Average depth of the Southern Ocean |
| Deepest Point | -7,434 m | South Sandwich Trench |
| Marine Fisheries Catch | 388,901 mt (2021) | Total catch in the Southern Ocean |
| Krill Percentage | 95.5% (2021) | Percentage of krill in total catch |
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