![]() Still, there may be many positive surprises awaiting oceanographers in the years ahead. With many marine ecosystems suffering from rising sea temperatures, pollution, and other problems, some oceanographers believe the number of species is dropping. It is unknown how many different species call the ocean their home. The average depth of the entire ocean is 3,720 meters (12,200 feet). On the other hand, the Atlantic Ocean is relatively shallow because large parts of its seafloor are made up of continental shelves-parts of the continents that extend far out into the ocean. The peak of the world’s tallest mountain-Mount Everest in the Himalaya, measuring 8.84 kilometers (5.49 miles) high-would not even break the surface of the water if it was placed in the Pacific Ocean’s Mariana Trench or Philippine Trench, two of the deepest parts of the ocean. For example, we know that the ocean contains towering mountain ranges and deep canyons, known as trenches, just like those on land. A far greater percentage of the surfaces of the moon and the planet Mars has been mapped and studied than of our own ocean floor.Īlthough there is much more to learn, oceanographers have already made some amazing discoveries. More than 80 percent of the ocean has never been mapped, explored, or even seen by humans. Despite its size and impact on the lives of every organism on Earth, the ocean remains a mystery. Because of this, the ocean has considerable impact on weather, temperature, and the food supply of humans and other organisms. Beginning in the 20th century, some oceanographers labeled the seas around Antarctica the Southern Ocean, and in 2021 National Geographic officially recognized this fifth ocean.Īn estimated 97 percent of the world’s water is found in the ocean. The planet has one global ocean, though oceanographers and the countries of the world have traditionally divided it into four distinct regions: the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, and Arctic oceans. The St.The ocean is a huge body of saltwater that covers about 71 percent of Earth’s surface. In addition to the many species of water-breathing aquatic animals, our Oceans collection also includes air-breathing marine mammals. ![]() Oceans – The Oceans allow guests to get up close with a diverse collection of animals of unusual shapes and brilliant colors. ![]() Whether interacting with tigers, bears, or any other creatures of the trees, you are sure to feel transported away from the cityscape while in our Forests area. Forests occupy about one third of the Earth’s land area and contain nearly 70 percent of the carbon present in living things. Along with various flora and fauna, forests are also characterized by diverse animal species that call it their home.
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