Fjord

Geirangerfjord (6-2007)

Glacier in eastern Greenland

Fjord genesis

Error creating thumbnail:

Odda frå fly

Error creating thumbnail:

Muldalsfossen

Fjord (or fiord) is a long, deep, narrow body of water that reaches far inland. Fjords are often set in a U-shaped valley with steep walls or cliffs, created by glacier movements. The term is used most commonly in Norway, but fjords can be found in many regions worldwide where glaciers have sculpted the landscape. The distinctive features of fjords include their depth, which can exceed several hundred meters, and their calm waters, protected from the rough seas by their narrow entrances.

Formation

Fjords were formed by the process of glaciation over millions of years. As glaciers moved down mountain valleys, they carved out the earth beneath them. When the glaciers melted, the sea filled in these valleys, creating fjords. The depth of a fjord is directly related to the extent of glaciation and the volume of water that has filled the valley. The most pronounced fjords have been further deepened by glacial erosion.

Geography

Fjords are predominantly found in Norway, where they are a key feature of the landscape, but they are also located in New Zealand, Canada, Chile, and Greenland, among other places. Each of these countries has a coastline that was significantly shaped by the Ice Ages, leading to the formation of fjords. In Norway, the Sognefjord, stretching 205 kilometers inland, is one of the longest and deepest fjords in the world.

Ecology

The ecology of fjords is unique due to their deep waters and often limited exchange with open sea waters. This leads to stratified water layers, with fresh water from rivers and melting glaciers on top and denser salt water from the sea below. Such conditions create a diverse marine environment, supporting a wide range of marine life, including fish, plankton, and sometimes deep-water corals. The surrounding landscapes are often home to rich biodiversity, including various bird species and terrestrial animals.

Economic and Cultural Importance

Fjords have historically been important for human settlement due to their natural protection from the elements and access to marine resources. Many communities along fjord coastlines depend on fishing and aquaculture as economic bases. In recent years, fjords have also become significant tourist attractions, drawing visitors with their stunning landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

Challenges

Despite their natural beauty, fjords face environmental challenges. Climate change is leading to increased glacier melt, which affects fjord ecosystems by changing water salinity and temperature. Pollution from human activities, including farming, industry, and shipping, also poses threats to the delicate ecological balance of fjord environments.