In the Atlantic Ocean there is an inter-continental sea called the Mediterranean. It is connected to the ocean by the Strait of Gibraltar. UNESCO has recognized the Mediterranean as the cleanest sea in the world. Moreover, it is the most profound. It washes three parts of the world at once - the shores of Africa, Asia and Europe.
Geographic features
The sea juts deep into the mainland. Its maximum depth is almost 5121 m, and the average is 1541 m. The Mediterranean Sea is formed by other seas, which are separated by islands. These include Ligurian, Alboran, Balearic, Tyrrhenian, Aegean, Ionian and Adriatic. Its basin also includes the Azov, Cilician, Marmara and Black seas. These seas are separated from each other by narrow straits. They are believed to be part of the ancient Tethys Ocean. The Mediterranean Sea has an area of about 2550 thousand km. kV. It washes the lands of 22 countries. Its mountainous shores are distinguished by smooth slopes. Low coastal areas are estuaries, deltas and lagoons. A map of the Mediterranean Sea allows you to see that the largest rivers flow into it, such as the Nile, Tiber, Ebro, etc.
Climatic conditions
Currently, this sea is one of the most popular holiday destinations. The water is bright blue and can be seen at 50 m. Strong tidal currents can be seen in narrow straits. There are usually semi-daily tides in the sea, which in some places reach 4 m. In winter, the strongest waves are noted, when waves up to 8 m occur. The climate of the Mediterranean Sea is considered unique. This geographical object is located in the subtropics and is distinguished by its climatic specifics. Therefore, a Mediterranean climate has developed here, characterized by dry hot summers and mild warm winters. In winter, the weather is unstable, storms and frequent precipitation are formed. The air temperature drops due to the northerly winds. In January, the average air temperature is 15 degrees in the southern regions and 8 degrees in the north.
In summer, the Azores anticyclone dominates in the Mediterranean region. It provides clear weather with little rainfall. In August, the water warms up, on average, to 23 degrees in the north and up to 30 degrees near the southern shores.
The importance of the Mediterranean for people
This sea contains different types of algae and all kinds of marine fauna. More than 550 species of fish are found in its waters. Here you can find endemic fish: gobies, stingrays, wrasses, blends, needle fish. People eat shellfish such as sea dates, oysters, mussels.
The Mediterranean coast has always been inhabited by people. Therefore, agriculture is well developed here. The unique position of this sea has made it the most important transport route between Asia, North Africa and Europe, Oceania and Australia.
