Image Credit : theguardian.com
Few days back the world had four oceans for the longest time namely Atlantic, Indian, Pacific and Arctic Ocean. Now, the world have its fifth ocean, the Southern Ocean.
One of the world’s prestigious and well known mapmakers declared the presence of the Southern Ocean in the world. A published on National Geographic’s official website quoted National Geographic Society Geographer Alex trait, ” The Southern Ocean has long been recognized by scientists, but because there was no agreement internationally, we never officially recognized it.”
Southern Ocean
The newest ocean in the earth is the body of water that encloses Antarctica and is known as Southern Ocean. The ocean will now be recognized with the same status as the other oceans and will have the same typeface. About 30 million years ago when Antarctica and South America split, the ocean had its presence since then.
As per the magazine, the Southern Ocean is the only ocean that touches three other ocean and entirely encompasses a continent than being enveloped by them. The northernmost point of the ocean is 60 degree south latitude.
Reports suggests that the Antarctic Circumpolar Current which formed almost 34 million years ago also defines the Ocean. The current travels from west to east around Antarctica. The development surfaces at the time when it is much required to concentrate on the region’s peril and the need for conservation have become imminent.
As far as the reports are concerned, Antarctica have been witnessing the burnt of climate change and an abrupt warming of the planet. On these grounds, the scientist are examining its impact on the southern Ocean which is a home to a several delicate marine ecosystem that comprises of Whales, Penguins and Seals.
In the year 2000 when the boundaries of the ocean were proposed, International Hydrographic Organization found it difficult to be recognized as the other countries did not agree to it.