Country Profile: Indian Ocean
The Indian Ocean is the third largest ocean in the world, bordered by Africa to the west, Asia to the north, and Australia to the east. Covering an area of approximately 70.56 million sq km, it plays a vital role in global trade, with key chokepoints such as the Suez Canal and Strait of Hormuz. The ocean is characterized by diverse ecosystems, significant natural resources, and critical marine fisheries that contribute notably to the region's economies. Environmental challenges, including marine pollution and threats to biodiversity, pose ongoing concerns for the region.
Geography
The Indian Ocean is a vast body of water located between Africa, the Southern Ocean, Asia, and Australia, with coordinates at 20°S, 80°E. It has a total area of 70.56 million sq km, making it nearly seven times the size of the United States. The ocean features a coastline of 66,526 km and a mean depth of 3,741 m, with various ocean currents influencing its climate and navigation.
- 264 million cu km: Total volume of the Indian Ocean.
- 19.8%: Percentage of the world's ocean total volume contributed by the Indian Ocean.
- 66,526 km: Length of the coastline.
Environment
The Indian Ocean faces significant environmental challenges, including marine pollution from dumping, waste disposal, and oil spills. The region also contends with the loss of biodiversity and threats to coral reefs and endangered marine species. Marine fisheries are crucial, accounting for 15.5% of the global catch in 2020, highlighting the ocean's importance for both ecological balance and local economies.
- 12,220,000 mt: Total global catch from Indian Ocean fisheries in 2020.
- 6,590,000 mt: Catch from the Eastern Indian Ocean region in 2020.
- 5,630,000 mt: Catch from the Western Indian Ocean region in 2020.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Area | 70.56 million sq km | Total area of the Indian Ocean |
| Coastline | 66,526 km | Length of the coastline |
| Ocean Volume | 264 million cu km | Total volume of the Indian Ocean |
| Percentage of World Ocean | 19.8% | Contribution to world ocean volume |
| Marine Fisheries Share | 15.5% | Global catch accounted in 2020 |
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