Yellow Sea

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Yellow Sea, February 24, 2015

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Jungmun Daepo Columnar Joints with waves crashing

DustStyormYellowSea2March2008

Rocky shore in Dalian

Bar-tailed Godwit9may

PopulationDensityYellowSea

Yellow Sea

The Yellow Sea is a marginal sea of the Pacific Ocean located between mainland China and the Korean Peninsula. It is one of the largest seas in the world that is part of the Pacific Ocean, covering an area of approximately 380,000 square kilometers. The sea gets its name from the sand particles from Gobi Desert sand storms that turn its surface waters a golden-yellow color.

Geography

The Yellow Sea is bordered by China to the north and west, the Korean Peninsula to the east, and its southern boundary is defined by the line from the mouth of the Yalu River to the northern tip of the Jeju Island. It connects with the Bohai Sea to the northwest and the East China Sea to the south. The sea has a maximum depth of about 500 meters, with an average depth of 44 meters, making it relatively shallow.

Hydrology

The Yellow Sea's hydrology is significantly influenced by the Yangtze River and the Yellow River, which bring large amounts of sediment into the sea. This sediment is responsible for the sea's distinctive color and its relatively shallow depth. The sea experiences a monsoon climate, with prevailing winds changing direction seasonally, which significantly affects its hydrological characteristics.

Biodiversity

The Yellow Sea is known for its rich biodiversity. It is an important habitat for various species of fish, crustaceans, and mollusks. The sea's coastal areas, particularly the mudflats, are crucial for the survival of several species of migratory birds. The intertidal zones of the Yellow Sea are among the most productive marine ecosystems in the world and are key breeding and feeding grounds for numerous species.

Environmental Issues

The Yellow Sea faces several environmental challenges, including pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction. Industrial and agricultural runoff, along with domestic sewage, has led to significant water pollution, affecting marine life and coastal ecosystems. Overfishing has depleted fish stocks, and habitat destruction, particularly of coastal wetlands, threatens the region's biodiversity.

Economic Importance

The Yellow Sea is of significant economic importance to both China and Korea. It is a vital transportation route for international trade and is rich in fisheries resources. The sea also has potential oil and gas reserves, making it a focus of energy exploration activities. Additionally, its coastal areas are important for tourism and recreation.

Disputes

The Yellow Sea is also a region of geopolitical tension, with disputes over maritime boundaries and territorial rights. These disputes involve issues related to fishing rights, energy exploration, and military activities, contributing to the complex political dynamics in the region.