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Why do we have a 5th ocean?
National Geographic decided to designate the Antarctic waters as its own ocean (instead of merely southern parts the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific) to bring awareness to, and promote conservation of the waters. But also because of its unique attributes, which scientists and geographers have long recognized.
Did National Geographic find a new ocean?
For the first time in over a century, there’s a new ocean on the map. That’s according to National Geographic, which Tuesday announced that it is officially recognizing the body of water surrounding the Antarctic as the Southern Ocean, making it the fifth ocean alongside the Arctic, Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific.
When did they add a 5th ocean?
1999
Soon after, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recognized the body of water as the fifth ocean in 1999 after the Board of Geographic Names approved the title, “Southern Ocean,” reports Paulina Firozi for the Washington Post.
What is the 5th ocean?
Southern
Historically, there are four named oceans: the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic. However, most countries – including the United States – now recognize the Southern (Antarctic) as the fifth ocean.
When was the fifth ocean added?
What is the 2nd largest ocean?
the Atlantic Ocean
Covering approximately 20 percent of the Earth’s surface, the Atlantic Ocean is the second largest ocean basin in the world, following only the Pacific. However, it is only slightly larger than half the size of the Pacific Ocean.
When did we get a fifth ocean?
What is the fifth Ocean on Earth?
National Geographic announced Tuesday that it is officially recognizing the Southern Ocean as the Earth’s fifth ocean. The announcement was made to coincide with World Oceans Day. The Southern Ocean is a vital home for marine ecosystems and a focal point for the southern hemisphere.
What makes the Southern Ocean so unique?
As described in National Geographic by NOAA marine scientist Seth Sykora-Bodie, the Southern Ocean is unique in that “the glaciers are bluer, the air colder, the mountains more intimidating and the landscapes more captivating than anywhere else you can go.”
What is another name for the Southern Ocean?
Many members of the IHO, according to National Geographic, have referred to the Southern Ocean as the Antarctic Ocean or the Austral Ocean.
Why is the Southern Ocean important to Antarctica?
The announcement was made to coincide with World Oceans Day. The Southern Ocean is a vital home for marine ecosystems and a focal point for the southern hemisphere. It directly surrounds Antarctica, extending from the continent’s coastline to 60 degrees south latitude, excluding the Drake Passage and Scotia Sea.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WyWTOstxOQ