Threatened Ecosystem
The Indian Ocean provides an important trade route both historically and in modern times for shipping various resources, including oil and petroleum products, from the Middle East to other parts of the world. The resulting pollution, combined with destructive fishing practices, mining operations, commercial development and war-related activity have resulted in the destruction of many of the Indian Ocean's delicate marine ecosystems.
Stormy Waters
Monsoons are characteristic of the Arabian Sea and responsible for the yearly cycling of its waters. In summer, strong winds blow from the southwest to the northeast, bringing rain to coastal areas and pulling deeper, nutrient-rich waters to the surface, thus providing rich fishing grounds. During the winter, the winds are milder and blow in the opposite direction, from the northeast to the southwest.
Arabian Sea News
Google News: Arabian Sea News
National Geographic News: Gandhi's Ashes Scattered Into Arabian Sea (January 30, 2008)
CBC News: Canadian Ship Performs Rescue in Arabian Sea (January 28, 2008)
Science Daily: Rare Cyclone Brushes Arabian Peninsula (June 14, 2007)
Featured Video
References
Fast Facts
-
Fact:
Where many of the adventures of Sinbad the Sailor took place
-
Fact:
October to May trade winds blow across the sea
-
Fact:
Has the saltiest surface water in the Indian Ocean
-
Countries with coastline
India, Yemen, Oman, Iran, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives and SomaliaI-Cias: History
-
Maximum depth
15,262 feet
-
Maximum width
1,490 feet
-
Fact:
Resting place for some of Gandhi's ashes
-
Habitat Type
Tropical Coral
-
Conservation Status
Critical/Endangered
-
Important Branches
Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Oman
