The Geographic Location of The South China Sea
The South China Sea is located between the coastlines of Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Taiwan, China, and the Philippines. It is known to be a part of the western section of the Pacific Ocean and is bordered by the South China Sea. The sea is shaped like an almighty triangle, due to its vast size and the three sides of the sea act as its three borders. These exclusive coasts contribute to the sea’s exquisite natural beauty, making it one of the most famous sea locations in the world.
How Deep Is The South China Sea?
The recent data from studies suggest that the deepest area of the South China Sea is the Philippine trench, where depths are recorded as reaching up to a whopping 11,022 meters. This region is said to be one of the deepest sections on the planet (45% of the Earth’s surface is covered in ocean and consists of many deep trenches and basins).
In comparison, the average depth of the South China Sea is approximately 1,500 meters. This figure is not limited to the South China Sea alone as the average depth of the world’s oceans is also known to be around 4,000 to 5,000 meters deep.
Exploration and Research of the South China Sea
It is interesting to note that navigation and exploration of the South China Sea is still in its nascent stages, as the sea does not have the same reputation as other large global seas. In response, many significant research projects have been devised to further understand the depths and overall scope of the South China Sea.
The aim of the majority of these projects is to have a comprehensive understanding of the internal workings of the South China Sea. In particular, studies have been carried out with the aim of identifying potential new resources, as well as to be able to accurately measure the vast depths of this wondrous sea.
The Science Behind Studying The South China Sea
The technological advancements which are taking the sea exploration industry to newer heights play an essential role in the studies of the South China Sea. With the aid of scientific progress and modern technology, research on the South China Sea can now be undertaken with comparatively greater accuracy and efficiency.
The most commonly used methods involve the deployment of specialised research equipment to the sea floor. With the aid of sonar and other similar underwater sensing technology, detailed pictures of the ocean floor can be produced. The data collected through such technology contain intricate details on the terrain of the seabed and the depths of the various regions of the South China Sea.
The Relationship Between the South China Sea and Ancient Civilisations
The South China Sea has always been an important sea for the development of many ancient civilisations. Prehistoric evidence suggests that the South China Sea has been an integral part of Chinese culture for thousands of years, for example, the Chinese being able to navigate the South China Sea well before the Europeans knew of it’s existence.
It was also of significant importance to many other esteemed civilisations, such as the Polynesians, with the sea being used for a variety of ventures. For example, it has been known to have been of great commercial value, as fishing and other maritime activities were prevalent.
The Current State Of Exploration Of The South China Sea
Modern day sea exploration of the South China Sea is occurring with full force, however the geographical aspects of the sea and its surrounding islands mean that it has always been a challenge to explore the depths of the South China Sea. Due to the presence of many of the world’s largest countries nearby, the South China Sea is a contested area with competing claims of sovereignty from the China, Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei, amongst other countries.
Due to this fractious environment, the exploration process of the South China Sea has been hampered significantly by geopolitical tensions, leading to only a few research sites taking place in the uncultivated areas of the sea.
The Ecological Significance Of The South China Sea
The limited access and consequently restricted research opportunities unfortunately mean that the full ecological significance of the South China Sea cannot be fully appreciated. The countless living species and rare organisms which inhabit the depths of the South China Sea are unable to be studied and hence the scope of our knowledge remains somewhat inhibited.
In light of this, the earth’s raging oil crisis has meant that certain countries have become increasingly interested in the depths of the South China Sea as a potential source of rare and valuable minerals. This presents an immense dilemma, as many environmentalists are against the idea as it could potentially damage the rare ecosystems which the sea currently houses.
The Effects Of Global Warming On The South China Sea
The escalating global crisis of global warming and the resulting rise in temperatures has had a tangible effect on the South China Sea. As is the case with most places affected by global warming, the climate has changed gradually over time and this has had a drastic impact on the aquatic species present in the sea.
It has become increasingly more difficult for vulnerable species such as sea horses and corals to survive in the worsening conditions of the South China sea, leading to a sharp decline in their numbers over the years.
The Growing Need to Protect The South China Sea
The need to protect the South China Sea and its inhabitants is now greater than ever. Due to the multiple competing geopolitical interests, the detrimental effects of climate change, and our increasing need for valuable resources, the South China Sea has become increasingly at risk.
In light of this need for sustainable methods of exploration and research, international authorities are now actively advocating towards the implementation of a carbon neutral agenda, in order to preserve the precious ecosystems and living organisms which call the South China Sea home.
The Marine Species Of The South China Sea
The South China sea is home to an immense variety of marine creatures, such as turtles, crabs, and algae. Due to the enormous depths of the South China Sea, it is home to several rare species which can only survive in the depths of such extreme environments.
In addition to this, the South China Sea is also home to a massive population of whales, which migrate to and from the sea each year. There is also a remarkable diversification of fish species, with various species of tuna, grouper and snapper being prevalent.
The Fishing Industry Of The South China Sea
The South China Sea is the centre of a flourishing global fishing industry, having been praised for its abundance of marine life and its world-class fishing grounds. There was once a great tradition of artisanal fishing in the South China Sea, however, this practise has been largely superseded by the industrial fishing fleets which now dominate the region.
Despite the presence of such fishing fleets, the South China Sea still provides ample opportunities for artisanal fishermen who are looking to get a slice of the pie by utilising smaller yet equally productive boats. The beauty of this type of fishing lies in the fact that it causes much less disruption to the marine habitats, making it a much more sustainable activity.
The Economic Impact Of The South China Sea
The South China Sea is a contributing factor to the economies of many countries across the world, with many countries heavily relying on the sea to source an array of different commodities. The two most important sectors which are boosted by the South China Sea are tourism and mining, with tourism being an increasingly vital part of the local economy due to its stunning scenery and idyllic locations.
Mining also plays its part in contributing to the economy, with oil, natural gas and rare minerals being harvested from the depths of the South China Sea. A range of different nations have invested heavily in this sector in the hopes of spurring more economic progress, with various international organisations ultimately being discussed in order to reach a more comprehensive agreement on the division of resources and profits from such activities.
The Overall Impact Of The South China Sea
The presence of such a vast body of water, with its immense depths and ecological value, has spurred a flurry of activity throughout its surrounding countries. Many of these countries are looking to benefit from the South China Sea by uncovering its riches, be it its precious fish species, rare minerals, or oil reserves.
However, given the sensitivity of this area, there is need for a more collaborative effort in order to ensure that the South China Sea is managed responsibly in both the short and long-term. Hopefully strategic collaborations with relevant international organisations will lead to a more sustainable approach which will benefit the many countries, their citizens and its beautiful living creatures for years to come.
