Ocean is a major part of our planet’s ecosystem. It provides the world with oxygen, helps to regulate climate patterns, and is a storehouse of energy and minerals. The ocean is also home to a huge variety of animal and plant life.
The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface and is 99% water. It makes the Earth appear blue from space and is essential for our existence on the planet. Without the ocean, there would be no life on Earth.
The earliest oceans formed when molten rocks in the Earth’s crust cooled. As the lava cooled, it released water vapor. The resulting oceans are still growing today. They fill spaces between continents and absorb heat from the sun, keeping Earth’s temperature stable.
There are five main oceans in the world: the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Arctic, and Southern. These oceans merge into icy waters around Antarctica, where they form the Southern Ocean.
A vast network of currents runs through the oceans and influences everything from weather to food supply. Ocean currents transport energy and heat from one place to another. They also distribute nutrients such as fish and plankton, and they control sea level.
Oceans are filled with a diversity of creatures, from the largest mammals to tiny plants called phytoplankton. These phytoplankton provide a base for all marine life.
Animals that live in the ocean include sharks, dolphins, whales, seals, penguins, and crabs. They are also home to birds, fish, and invertebrates (animals that don’t have a backbone) such as jellyfish and shrimp. About 95% of the animals that live in the ocean are invertebrates.
Some scientists believe that there may be many more ocean species than we know about. The number of species that live in the ocean can vary depending on the water temperature, the availability of food, and the presence of other organisms.
A large area of the ocean is covered by ice sheets. In some places, these ice sheets are melting and breaking up. This is changing the structure of the ocean and making some areas accessible for exploration.
There are many things that individuals can do to protect the ocean environment. For example, they can reduce their use of plastics, recycle, and choose to buy sustainable seafood. They can also eat fruits and vegetables that are grown without pesticides, and choose to shop locally and seasonally. These actions help to reduce the amount of waste from chemicals and toxins that flow into the ocean. They can also reduce their fuel consumption by carpooling, riding a bike, or using alternative forms of transportation. Finally, they can support organizations that are focused on preserving the oceans’ ecosystems by donating funds or volunteering their time. Together these small steps can make a big difference. The oceans are crying out for our help. Can you hear them?