Andaman Sea

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Andaman Sea is a marginal sea in the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean. It is bounded to the north by the coast of Myanmar and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India, to the east by the Malay Peninsula, and to the south by the Indonesian island of Sumatra. The sea is named after the Andaman Islands.

Geography

The Andaman Sea covers an area of approximately 600,000 square kilometers. It is known for its deep waters, with the deepest point reaching over 4,000 meters. The sea is connected to the Bay of Bengal to the northwest through the Preparis Channel and other smaller channels. The Malacca Strait to the south connects it with the South China Sea.

Major islands in the Andaman Sea include the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India, and several islands belonging to Myanmar, such as the Coco Islands. The coastline surrounding the Andaman Sea features numerous beaches, coral reefs, and marine ecosystems that are rich in biodiversity.

Climate

The climate of the region surrounding the Andaman Sea is tropical, characterized by monsoons. The southwest monsoon brings heavy rains between May and September, while the northeast monsoon prevails from November to March, bringing lighter rainfall and drier conditions.

Biodiversity

The Andaman Sea is home to a wide range of marine life, including over 500 species of coral and 1,000 species of fish. The sea's diverse ecosystems, such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds, provide vital habitats for many species. Endangered species such as the dugong and several types of sea turtles can also be found here.

Economy

The Andaman Sea region's economy is heavily dependent on fishing, tourism, and shipping. Fishing is a crucial industry for the coastal communities, while the picturesque islands and clear waters attract tourists from around the world. The sea is also an important shipping route, connecting the Indian Ocean with the Pacific Ocean through the Strait of Malacca.

Environmental Concerns

The Andaman Sea faces several environmental challenges, including overfishing, coral bleaching due to climate change, and pollution from shipping and land-based sources. Efforts are being made to address these issues through marine conservation projects and sustainable tourism practices.

See Also

• Bay of Bengal
• Indian Ocean
• Malacca Strait
• Marine conservation