Sea of Marmara

Turkish Strait disambig

2010 satellite picture of the Sea of Marmara

Blooms in the Sea of Marmara (18162220028)

Gulf of Izmit, Turkey

Bosphorus aerial view

Marmara sea

Sea of Marmara (also known as Marmara Denizi in Turkish) is an inland sea that connects the Black Sea to the Aegean Sea, thus separating Turkey's Asian and European parts. It is a significant body of water for maritime navigation through the Dardanelles to the Aegean Sea and through the Bosphorus to the Black Sea. The Sea of Marmara is integral to the geographical and historical landscape of the region, playing a crucial role in trade, warfare, and migration throughout history.

Geography

The Sea of Marmara is approximately 280 kilometers (174 miles) long and 80 kilometers (50 miles) wide, with a surface area of about 11,350 square kilometers (4,382 square miles). Its greatest depth is around 1,355 meters (4,446 feet). The sea is surrounded by the Gallipoli peninsula to the northwest, the Thrace region to the north and west, the Anatolia region to the east, and the Armutlu Peninsula to the south. It contains several significant islands, including Marmara Island, Avşa Island, and the Princes' Islands, which are popular tourist destinations.

Hydrology

The Sea of Marmara is unique in that it contains both saline and fresh water, due to its connections to the Black Sea and the Aegean Sea. The water from the Black Sea is less saline and tends to flow into the Marmara Sea at the surface, while the more saline water from the Aegean flows in at a deeper level. This creates a distinct layering effect, known as stratification, which has significant implications for marine life and navigation.

Ecology

The marine ecosystem of the Sea of Marmara has been influenced by both its natural characteristics and human activities. The sea is home to a variety of marine species, including fish, mollusks, and crustaceans, which support local fishing industries. However, pollution, overfishing, and the introduction of invasive species have posed challenges to the ecological balance of the sea.

History

The Sea of Marmara has been a critical crossroads of civilizations for thousands of years. It was an essential part of the ancient trade routes between the Aegean and Black Seas, facilitating the exchange of goods, cultures, and ideas. The sea has witnessed numerous historical events, including battles and conquests that have shaped the region's history. The city of Istanbul, which straddles the Bosphorus at the sea's northeastern end, has been a particularly significant historical and cultural center, serving as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires.

Economy

The Sea of Marmara is vital for Turkey's economy, particularly in terms of shipping and transportation. The sea's ports, especially the port of Istanbul, are among the busiest in the region, handling a significant portion of Turkey's maritime trade. In addition to shipping, the sea supports fishing, tourism, and shipbuilding industries.

Environmental Issues

The Sea of Marmara faces several environmental challenges, including pollution from industrial and domestic sources, overfishing, and the impacts of climate change. Efforts are being made to address these issues through environmental protection initiatives and sustainable management practices.