Gulf of California

Gulf of California

The Gulf of California (also known as the Sea of Cortez or Sea of Cortés) is a body of water that separates the Baja California Peninsula from the Mexican mainland. It is bordered by the states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora, and Sinaloa with a coastline of approximately 4,000 km (2,500 mi). Rivers which flow into the Gulf of California include the Colorado River, Fuerte River, Mayo River, and the Sinaloa River. The gulf's surface area is about 160,000 km2 (62,000 sq mi).

Geography

The Gulf is thought to be one of the most diverse seas on the planet, and is home to more than 5,000 species of micro-invertebrates. Baja California is one of the longest, most isolated peninsulas in the world, and the Gulf of California’s wide range of endemic species makes it one of the richest bodies of water on the planet.

Climate

The Gulf of California is a semi-tropical environment, with two distinct seasons. The summer months (July through September) are dominated by intense heat, and the winter months (November through March) are characterized by cooler temperatures.

Biodiversity

The Gulf of California hosts many species of fish, mammals, and birds. Some of the species that inhabit the Gulf are unique to it, such as the Vaquita, a critically endangered porpoise. The Gulf is also home to the largest population of the Fin Whale and the Blue Whale.

Conservation

The Gulf of California is under threat from several sources, including overfishing, pollution, and climate change. Efforts are being made to protect the biodiversity of the Gulf, including the establishment of protected areas and the implementation of sustainable fishing practices.

See also

• Baja California Peninsula
• Colorado River
• Vaquita
• Fin Whale
• Blue Whale

Gulf of California Resources
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