Oceans are vast bodies of water covering most of our planet, supporting diverse life and playing a crucial role in Earth’s systems.
What is the Ocean?
The ocean is an enormous body of saltwater covering about 70% of Earth’s surface. This makes our world truly a “blue planet.” It contains about 97% of all water on Earth.
While there is one global ocean, it is divided into five main areas: the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern (or Antarctic), and Arctic Oceans. The Pacific is the largest and deepest, while the Arctic is the smallest. Its average depth is around 3,688 meters (12,100 feet).
Amazing Ocean Animals
Oceans host a vast diversity of life, from microscopic organisms to the largest animals on Earth. Tiny plant-like organisms called phytoplankton float near the surface, forming the base of many ocean food chains. These microscopic creatures are food for even tinier animals called zooplankton.
Many fascinating animals swim through ocean waters. Fish like colorful clownfish, swift tuna, and large cod inhabit various ocean regions. Marine mammals such as dolphins, whales, and sea otters also thrive here. Other ocean inhabitants include sea turtles, octopuses, crabs, and lobsters.
Ocean animals live in diverse habitats. Shallow, warm areas are often home to vibrant coral reefs, built by tiny living creatures called corals, which provide shelter for countless fish. Deeper parts of the ocean, where sunlight cannot reach, host unique creatures adapted to cold temperatures and high pressure.
Why the Ocean is Important
The ocean supports life on Earth. It produces much of the oxygen we breathe, with tiny phytoplankton responsible for over half the world’s supply through photosynthesis. The ocean also absorbs large amounts of carbon dioxide, helping regulate Earth’s climate.
Ocean currents move warm water from the equator towards the poles and cold water back to the tropics. This distributes heat globally, influencing weather patterns and stabilizing Earth’s temperatures. Evaporation from the ocean also contributes to the water cycle, providing most rain on land.
Beyond climate regulation, the ocean provides essential resources. It is a major food source, offering fish and shellfish like cod, tuna, and shrimp. Ingredients like salt and certain food thickeners also come from the ocean. Protecting the ocean from pollution, such as plastic waste, is important to preserve these benefits.