Country Profile: Southern Ocean

The Southern Ocean, recognized as the world's fourth largest ocean basin, encircles Antarctica, extending from the coast of the continent to 60 degrees south latitude. This unique body of water plays a crucial role in global ocean circulation, particularly through the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, which is the strongest current on the planet. Although this ocean does not have a permanent population, it serves as an important ecological region teeming with marine life, influenced by its distinct climate and geography. Environmental regulations are in place to protect its fragile ecosystems, while its vast area presents opportunities for scientific exploration and natural resource discovery.

Geography

The Southern Ocean is located between 60 degrees south latitude and Antarctica, encompassing a vast area of approximately 21.96 million square kilometers. It is characterized by its cold sea temperatures, which range from around 10 degrees Celsius to -2 degrees Celsius, and is subject to cyclonic storms and strong winds. The oceanic features include the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, numerous undersea terrain features, and significant ice cover during winter months.

• Area: 21.96 million sq km, slightly more than twice the size of the US.
• Coastline: 17,968 km.
• Ocean Volume: 71.8 million cu km, representing 5.4% of the world's total ocean volume.
• Mean Depth: -3,270 m.
• Highest Point: Sea level.
• Lowest Point: -7,434 m at the southern end of the South Sandwich Trench.

Environment

The Southern Ocean faces both natural and human-induced environmental changes affecting its physical, chemical, and biological systems. It is governed by international agreements aimed at preserving its resources and ecological balance, including restrictions on whaling and fishing. The ocean is crucial for its marine biodiversity, particularly Antarctic krill, which is vital to the food chain in this region.

• Average Sea Temperatures: Vary from 10 degrees Celsius to -2 degrees Celsius.
• Fishing Catch (2021): Total catch was 388,901 mt, primarily Antarctic krill.
• International Agreements: Subject to the International Whaling Commission and the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.
• Mineral Exploitation: Banned except for scientific research.

Government

While the Southern Ocean is not governed by a traditional government structure, its naming and recognition stem from the International Hydrographic Organization's definitions. The Southern Ocean's designation is widely accepted among various nations and organizations, aligning with international maritime practices.

Transportation

The Drake Passage serves as a key maritime route, providing an alternative to the Panama Canal for vessels navigating between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. This passage is significant for both trade and scientific expeditions in the region.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Area	21.96 million sq km	Total surface area of the Southern Ocean.
Coastline	17,968 km	Length of the coastline encircling Antarctica.
Ocean Volume	71.8 million cu km	Total volume of the Southern Ocean.
Mean Depth	-3,270 m	Average depth across the ocean.
Highest Point	Sea level	Elevated level of water at its surface.
Lowest Point	-7,434 m	Position of the South Sandwich Trench.
Fishing Catch (2021)	388,901 mt	Total marine catch in the Southern Ocean.
Sea Temperature Range	10°C to -2°C	Variability of sea temperatures in the region.