The Arctic Ocean is the smallest of the world’s five ocean basins.
In this article, we will discuss the ocean.
About The Ocean
In regard to the Arctic Ocean, spanning approximately 6.1 million square miles, it surpasses the United States by 1.5 times in size.
Moreover, this ocean shares its borders with Greenland, Canada, Norway, Alaska, and Russia.
Additionally, boasting an average depth of 3,953 feet and a deepest point plunging to 18,264 feet, it possesses remarkable dimensions.
While the Arctic Ocean remains predominantly ice-covered throughout the year, rarely witnessing temperatures above freezing, it teems with life.
Within the sea ice, intricate tunnels known as brine channels house bacteria and algae, sustaining tunnel-dwelling creatures like flatworms.
Furthermore, the melting ice forms ponds on its surface, evolving into thriving biological communities.
As the ice melts, organisms and nutrients are released into the water, fostering the growth of algae beneath the ice.
Consequently, these algae serve as a vital food source for small organisms called zooplankton, forming the basis of the food chain for fish, squid, seals, and whales.
Remarkably, some of these larger creatures, including polar bears, rely on the ice for hunting.
Moreover, once the creatures beneath the ice expire, they sink to the ocean floor, offering crucial nutrients to sponges, sea anemones, and other bottom-dwelling organisms.
Consequently, as these communities flourish, they regain their role as a source of sustenance for larger creatures like seals, fish, and whales.
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