Country Profile: Southern Ocean

The Southern Ocean is a vast body of water encircling Antarctica, extending from the coast of the continent north to 60 degrees south latitude. Covering an area of approximately 21.96 million square kilometers, it stands as the fourth-largest ocean basin in the world. This unique ocean is characterized by its nutrient-rich waters, which support diverse marine life, including a substantial krill population crucial to the ocean's ecology. Governed by various international treaties and agreements, the Southern Ocean plays a vital role in global ocean circulation and climate.

Geography

The Southern Ocean is located between 60 degrees south latitude and Antarctica, encircling the continent entirely. Its coastline measures about 17,968 km, with the ocean encompassing a range of unique underwater features, including abyssal plains and mid-ocean ridges. The climate is harsh, exhibiting temperatures from 10 degrees Celsius to -2 degrees Celsius, with significant cyclonic storms and some areas remaining ice-free due to persistent winds.

21.96 million sq km: Total area, making it slightly larger than twice the size of the US.
71.8 million cu km: Total ocean volume, accounting for 5.4% of the world's ocean volume.
-7,434 m: The lowest point at the South Sandwich Trench, the deepest location in the Southern Ocean.
3,270 m: Mean depth of the ocean.

People and Society

While the Southern Ocean itself does not have a resident population, it is critically important for global fisheries and biodiversity. The surrounding regions, especially Antarctica, are inhabited by researchers and support a variety of marine species that are integral to both ecological balance and human economic activity.

Economy

The Southern Ocean's economy is largely driven by its fishing industry, specifically the harvesting of krill and other marine life. This fishery is regulated to ensure sustainability, catering to global markets while adhering to international environmental standards.

388,901 mt: Total fish catch in 2021, highlighting the importance of marine resources.
95.5%: Proportion of Antarctic krill in the total catch.

Government

The Southern Ocean is recognized under various international treaties and agreements, including the Antarctic Treaty System, which governs activities in the region. The International Hydrographic Organization has recognized the Southern Ocean as a distinct body of water but has not formally adopted this definition.

Military and Security

There are no military installations or security forces associated with the Southern Ocean, as it is largely governed by international law and environmental protections focused on conservation and research.

Energy

The Southern Ocean is believed to have potential resources, including oil and gas reserves on its continental margin, although exploitation is largely prohibited under current international treaties.

Environment

The Southern Ocean faces challenges due to both natural and human-induced changes impacting its physical and biological systems. It is governed by numerous international environmental agreements aimed at preserving its unique ecosystem and regulating activities such as fishing.

Prohibitions: Includes bans on commercial whaling and mineral exploitation, reinforcing the focus on conservation.
Specific Agreements: Enforced protections for marine life, such as the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.

Transportation

The Southern Ocean is significant for maritime navigation, particularly the Drake Passage, which offers an alternative route to the Panama Canal for shipping vessels. This aspect is crucial for global trade, connecting different parts of the world through maritime travel.

Communications

Communication within the Southern Ocean is primarily conducted through international research channels and maritime communication systems, facilitating collaboration in scientific studies and environmental monitoring.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Area	21.96 million sq km	Total area of the Southern Ocean
Ocean Volume	71.8 million cu km	Total volume of the Southern Ocean
Coastline	17,968 km	Length of the coastline
Mean Depth	-3,270 m	Average depth of the ocean
Lowest Point	-7,434 m	Depth at the South Sandwich Trench
Total Fish Catch (2021)	388,901 mt	Total marine catch for the year
Antarctic Krill Catch	95.5% of total catch	Dominant species in fisheries