Cantabrian Sea

Cantabrian Sea

The Cantabrian Sea (Spanish: Mar Cantábrico) is the coastal sea of the Atlantic Ocean that washes the northern coast of Spain and the southwestern coast of France, extending from the Bay of Biscay to Cape Ortegal in the west.

Geography

The Cantabrian Sea is bounded by the Celtic Sea to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Bay of Biscay to the east. It covers an area of approximately 200,000 square kilometers. The sea's depth varies, with the deepest point being the Le Danois Bank near Cape Ortegal, which reaches a depth of 4,735 meters.

Climate

The climate of the Cantabrian Sea is influenced by the North Atlantic Drift, a powerful warm ocean current that extends the Gulf Stream towards the west coast of Europe. This results in a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers.

Flora and Fauna

The Cantabrian Sea is home to a diverse range of marine life. Notable species include the Atlantic bluefin tuna, European hake, and European anchovy. The sea also supports a variety of seabirds, such as the Atlantic puffin and Northern gannet.

Economy

The Cantabrian Sea plays a significant role in the economies of Spain and France. It supports a thriving fishing industry, with major ports located in Bilbao, Santander, and Gijón. The sea is also a popular destination for tourism, with visitors drawn to its beautiful beaches and coastal towns.

Environmental Issues

The Cantabrian Sea faces several environmental challenges, including overfishing, pollution, and the effects of climate change. Efforts are being made to address these issues, such as the establishment of marine protected areas and the implementation of sustainable fishing practices.

See Also

• Atlantic Ocean
• Bay of Biscay
• Celtic Sea