All of the world’s oceans can be dangerous and potentially present a severe threat to human life. However, when considering the most dangerous oceans, the top answer may depend on your point of view. For example, a beachgoing holidaymaker could be most worried about hazardous marine life like sharks or jellyfish, the presence of which … Read more
You may have already heard that the Mariana Trench is the deepest part of the ocean, but what exactly is it? While coral reefs, kelp beds, and other coastal areas might be reasonably familiar, the deep ocean is an incredible and largely unknown world of canyons, seamounts, abyssal plains, and other astonishing geological features. Undoubtedly, … Read more
Humans have been exploring the oceans since the first sailing vessels left the shores of Egypt more than 6,000 years ago. It’s easy to assume that during that time and with our modern technologies, we would have discovered everything there is to know about the oceans. However, the latest estimates suggest that less than 10% … Read more
Sea vs. ocean. Is there any difference, or are they simply two words we can use to describe the saltwater that covers 70.8% of the surface of the Earth? People certainly use the two words interchangeably in everyday use, and your preference may depend on your country. However, the main difference between the ocean and … Read more
The ocean dominates our planet, covering over 70% of Earth and generating almost all its oxygen. They are critical for life on earth, regulating the climate and absorbing up to 50% of the carbon dioxide humans produce by burning fossil fuels. Despite their importance, only “8% of the world’s oceans are protected.” Ocean conservation is the best … Read more
Sea water isn’t pure like fresh water. It contains lots of tiny particles that, when agitated, create a soapy substance known as sea foam. This natural phenomenon occurs throughout the world, although the circumstances that cause it form vary from region to region. Sea foam is generally a sign of a healthy ocean but, in … Read more
Officially, there is only one global ocean that covers 71% of the planet and contains 97% of the world’s water. This global body of water is divided into either four or five distinct regions or ocean basins, depending on who you talk to. Historically, there have been just four oceans – the Arctic, Pacific, Atlantic, … Read more
It’s almost impossible to imagine California without throwing a few palm trees into the mix. Los Angeles is virtually synonymous with palm trees. They’re everywhere, lining the streets and adding their unmistakable silhouettes to the skyline. Although you find palm trees throughout Southern California, there’s only one variety that truly belongs there. The California fan … Read more
Hawaii is the world’s largest island chain, but only seven of its 132 islands are inhabited. Long before the first humans set foot on the islands, they were covered in vast forests of palm trees. These weren’t the coconut palms or the dwarf date palms that thrive today – they were imported by Polynesian immigrants … Read more