How much ocean explored

Expeditions yield photographs, video footage, scientific data, and narratives that can all be used to bolster the case for new or expanded protections. While the world still has a long way to go, continued ocean exploration can supply the evidence needed to protect the ocean and the many resources it provides. Even though data is useful, Feldman says a compelling case for MPAs can still be made when the reverse is true.

Because scientists do not have a complete understanding of how one change to the ocean affects the entire ecosystem — and which of those changes may be the tipping point that causes collapse — it is common sense that areas should be designated for protection and further research.

Under pressure One of the biggest challenges of ocean exploration comes down to physics. Be an ocean hero. Donate to Oceana today. Learn More. Take Action. Text on this page is printable and can be used according to our Terms of Service. Any interactives on this page can only be played while you are visiting our website. You cannot download interactives. Marine ecosystems contain a diverse array of living organisms and abiotic processes.

From massive marine mammals like whales to the tiny krill that form the bottom of the food chain, all life in the ocean is interconnected. While the ocean seems vast and unending, it is, in fact, finite; as the climate continues to change, we are learning more about those limits. Explore these resources to teach students about marine organisms, their relationship with one another, and with their environment.

Explorer-in-Residence Enric Sala reviews general facts about each ocean within the one world ocean. Join our community of educators and receive the latest information on National Geographic's resources for you and your students. Skip to content. Image Ocean Waves The ocean covers more than 70 percent of Earth, and more than 80 percent of it remains unexplored. Photograph by Getty Images. Twitter Facebook Pinterest Google Classroom.

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Related Resources. It is notoriously difficult to protect what we do not understand. That is according to the U. World Database on Protected Areas. Like all oceans though, these deep places undoubtedly need our help. Our actions have affected every other environment on Earth in a negative way, so it stands to reason that even these unexplored places are in danger. We must preserve them and we must protect them, but meanwhile, scientists will continue to try and understand them.

Green Matters is a registered trademark. All Rights Reserved. People may receive compensation for some links to products and services on this website. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Article continues below advertisement. How much of the ocean is unexplored? What is the deepest part of the ocean? What lives in the deepest part of the ocean?

Why is it so difficult to explore the deep ocean? Are the deep oceans in danger?