Black sea

Black Sea is a large body of water located in Eastern Europe, surrounded by several countries including Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, and Georgia. It is connected to the Atlantic Ocean via the Mediterranean Sea and the Bosphorus strait.

Geography

The Black Sea covers an area of approximately 436,400 square kilometers, making it one of the largest bodies of water in the world. It has a maximum depth of 2,212 meters and an average depth of 1,253 meters. The Black Sea is unique in that its lower layers are completely devoid of oxygen, making it one of the world's largest anoxic zones.

Hydrology

The Black Sea receives water from a number of major rivers, including the Danube, the Dnieper, and the Don. It has a positive water balance, with its total inflow, including atmospheric precipitation, exceeding the total outflow.

Flora and Fauna

The Black Sea is home to a diverse range of marine life, including several species of fish such as anchovy, mackerel, and turbot. However, the lack of oxygen in the lower layers limits biodiversity in deeper waters.

History

The Black Sea has a rich history and has played a significant role in the development of Eastern Europe. It was an important center of trade and cultural exchange in ancient times, with the Greek colonies on its shores being among the most prosperous in the ancient world.

Economy

Today, the Black Sea continues to be an important economic region. It is a major route for the transport of goods, particularly oil and gas, between Europe and Asia. The countries surrounding the Black Sea also have significant fishing industries, and the sea itself is a popular destination for tourism.

Environmental Issues

The Black Sea faces a number of environmental challenges, including pollution from industrial and agricultural runoff, overfishing, and the threat of invasive species.

See Also

• Mediterranean Sea
• Bosphorus
• Sea of Azov