The most salty sea in the world. Which seas are the most salty. Interesting facts about the Atlantic Ocean

The seas are part of the water surface of the Earth - the World Ocean, being its main part. The salt content for each of them individually, some exceed the salinity of the oceans. In the ranking of the most salty seas, there are also water areas washing the Russian coast.

Interest in the nature of sea water originated as early as the geographers of the 17th century. The hypotheses expressed at that time converged to a general statement about the initial since the origin of the salinity of the ocean, which is due to the dissolution of deposits of crystalline salts at the bottom. The theory was also considered that sea water is constantly replenished with salts through fresh water bodies.

Flowing from the mountains and hills, the rivers wash out the salt from the rocks and carry them to the seas and oceans. Such a theory is called traditional.

Over the following centuries, geographers repeatedly returned to the study of this issue. As a result, today there is modern theory why sea water is salty. It is assumed that its primary form is gas condensate, a consequence of the eruptions of numerous volcanoes.

Spitting acid rain falling on earth's surface, caused a chemical reaction with mineral formations, which resulted in salt solutions. In modern oceanography, it is customary to consider both postulates correct.

How is sea salinity measured?

Salinity, denoted by the symbol S, is measured in ppm "‰" and in the Practical Salinity Unit (PES). The composition of sea water is very complex, in addition to the predominant degree of chlorine and sodium, it contains even more than a dozen chemical elements.

In modern oceanography, salinity is calculated from the composition of one taken component or from electrical conductivity saline solution, in this case sea water.

For one component, salinity is established through the reaction of the interaction of silver ions and chlorine by repeated comparison. After measuring chlorine, calculations are made according to the empirical formula (determined from experimental data): S "‰" \u003d 1.8065 * chlorine content "‰".

In 1978, the International Union of Oceanographic Experts approved the Practical Salinity Scale - ShPS-78 (PSS-78). For its development, the established standard of sea water was used - a solution of potassium chloride at a certain temperature (15 ° C) and a pressure of 1 atmosphere.

The studied samples of natural sea water are compared in electrical conductivity with the standard, from the resulting ratio, the salinity is calculated according to the developed empirical formula. The average salt level in the oceans and seas is from 3.47% (from 3.4 to 3.6), which is approximately 34-36 g / l of sea water.

Top 10 saltiest seas in the world

All seas, as separate parts, differ from the World Ocean and from each other by the climatic regime, flora, fauna and composition of sea water. According to the degree of salt content, a certain rating of the most salty seas on Earth has been built.

The most salty sea (Russia has its own top salinity of the seas) in the world is the Red Sea, which is the inner part of the Indian Ocean. And the first place in terms of low salinity is occupied by the Baltic Sea. The ten most salty seas are presented below.

White Sea

The cold North Sea, called the White Sea for being covered with ice and snow for most of the year, belongs to the low-salinity seas, it completes the top ten most saline seas in the world. It is located in the western part of Russia, on its northern outskirts. The indicator of its salinity in the upper waters (up to 100 m depth) is lower than the oceanic one - only 26 ‰, in depth it reaches 31 ‰.

The White Sea is part of the seas of the Arctic Ocean, the coastline has a winding outline. It has a small area of ​​​​90.1 thousand km², the depth ranges from 67 m (average) to 343 m.

The White Sea cuts into the continent, continuing the Barents Sea. The lower salinity of the upper layer of the White Sea basin is explained by the large inflow of fresh water from the major rivers, shallower tributaries and very small rivers.

Fauna White Sea corresponds to the subpolar climate (boreal), but due to low salinity it is not so numerous. The northern commercial fish species live in the surface water layers. In the lower part of the sea, where the water is saltier and more consistently cold, Arctic life forms predominate.

Underwater vegetation - more than 190 species of various algae. Among them are popular brown and red species. You can get to the White Sea by rail from Moscow to Arkhangelsk. Travel time is approximately 20 hours, departure from the Yaroslavl railway station. The flight on this route by air will take about 1.5 hours.

Chukchi Sea

The marginal sea of ​​the Arctic Ocean, the easternmost in Russia, the salinity of which, at its maximum value, is close to the average oceanic level. Salinity fluctuations from 24 to 33 ‰ are due to seasonal changes and depth in winter period and in the bottom layer, mineralization increases.

The melting of ice in spring and summer, the influx of fresh water lowers the salt content in the upper water column.

The water area of ​​the Chukchi Sea washes the shores of Chukotka and borders on the East Siberian Sea from the western side. From the east, it enters the shelves of Alaska and adjoins the Beaufort Sea. The southern part is separated from Pacific Ocean Bering Strait. The north side faces the ocean. The sea is shallow, depth parameters: average - 45 m, maximum - 1256 m.

The coastline is a little winding, along the coast there are mountain ranges. The total area of ​​the Chukchi Sea is about 590 km². Cold climate, scarcity sunlight And low temperatures waters affect the nature of the Chukchi basin, therefore, the flora and fauna are predominantly arctic species and individuals.

The upper layers of the sea are inhabited by plant plankton, in the lower water column - algae, common for northern waters. The depths abound with fish - saffron cod, polar cod, char. A variety of North Sea mollusks and echinoderms, jellyfish, and in the Bering Strait area and Pacific species of underwater inhabitants.

Of the mammals on protected islands many polar bears, walrus rookeries, seals. Numerous waterfowl nest along the banks in summer. A population of whales lives in the Chukchi waters.

You can get to the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug only by plane; there are flights to Anadyr and Pevek. From Moscow to the "capital" of Chukotka - Anadyr, the flight will last approximately 8 hours, to the northernmost city of Russia - Pevek, the flight will take a little longer.

Laptev sea

Another marginal sea of ​​the Arctic Ocean, whose water area is covered with ice for most of the year. The area of ​​​​this harsh sea is 672,000 km², the maximum depth on the north side, passing into the ocean, reaches 3385 m. The Laptev Sea is located on Russian territory.

It is bounded on the south by the northern Siberian coast, on the west by the Taimyr Peninsula and the Severnaya Zemlya Islands, and on the east by the New Siberian Islands. The salinity of the Laptev Sea is from 15 to 28 ‰, it belongs to low-salt seas.

The lowest salt content in the surface layers and in the mouths of the rivers, the deeper, the higher the salinity of sea water. From the side of the coast with a length of 1300 km, most of the sea is a shelf with an average depth of 50 meters. The coastline is replete with coves and bays. Abundant rivers flowing into the sea: Lena, Khatanga. The largest port, Tiksi, is located east of the mouth of the Lena.

Due to the harsh climate, the flora and fauna of the region is not very rich. Among the underwater inhabitants, diatoms, some species of shelf algae and planktonic organisms, a small number of invertebrates, mollusks and starfish predominate. Among the fish there are also small sea fish (capelin, smelt, navaga) and freshwater fish entering from the rivers.

Beluga whales and whales live far from the coast. The islands are inhabited by polar bears, walruses and seals. The only way to travel to the Laptev Sea, as well as to other seas of the Arctic Ocean, is by plane. From Moscow to Tiksi airport, the flight time depends on the number of transfers along the route: the minimum is 13 hours, the maximum is 31 hours.

Barencevo sea

Washing the Russian and Norwegian coasts, the Barents Sea is one of the saltiest seas. Its salinity index ranges from 30 to 35 ‰. A large amount of fresh water is brought by the rivers Indiga and Pechora.

The sea has an average depth of more than 200 m, and a maximum depth of 600 m. It is located on a huge continental shoal with an area of ​​​​about 1,500 thousand km², the dividing line runs along the northern European coast, the polar archipelagos of Svalbard and Franz Josef Land, and along the western coast of Novaya Zemlya.

The flora and fauna of the Barents Sea are similar to other marginal seas of the Arctic Ocean, but more diverse and numerous. In addition to arctic algae and bottom dwellers, boreal species are common. In the second half of the 20th century, the king crab was artificially introduced into the habitat of the Barents Sea.

One of the largest Russian ports, Murmansk, is located in the Barents Sea. No less strategically important are other ports - Naryan-Mar and the polar Varandey. By air, a direct flight to Murmansk from Moscow will take approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes, with a transfer in St. Petersburg - 4-5 hours longer.

Unlike other northern seas, the Barents Sea can be reached by rail: from Moscow, St. Petersburg and other Russian cities to Murmansk. Naryan-Mar can only be reached by plane.

Japanese Sea

The most salty sea in Russia is the Sea of ​​Japan. It is among the first in the world in terms of salt saturation. Its maximum content in water is about 35 ‰. The marginal sea of ​​the Pacific Ocean occupies an area of ​​1062 thousand km² between Asia, the Korean Peninsula, Sakhalin and the Japanese Islands. The greatest measured depth is 3742 m, the average depth is about 1600 m.

The Eastern Sea of ​​Russia is a collection of sea basins and straits between numerous islands. The underwater world of the Sea of ​​Japan is represented by a rich mixture of southern and northern plant and animal species.

Bright representatives of the depths that amaze the imagination:

• various sea squirts;
• similar to exotic flowers of anemones;
• trepangs and shrimps;
• sea ​​urchins and starfish;
• jellyfish;
• mussels and oysters.

Large-sized squids and octopuses, and king crab live here. In the waters of the Sea of ​​Japan, you can observe several species of whales, dolphins and seals. Those wishing to get to the Sea of ​​Japan can get to Vladivostok. The flight from Moscow will take on average about 10 hours. The train will cover the way from Moscow to Vladivostok in almost 7 days.

ionian sea

The Ionian Sea washes the mountainous shores of the Balkan Peninsula, southern part Apennine Peninsula, Sicily and the western coast of Crete. It is part of the Mediterranean Sea, from the neighboring Adriatic Sea, separated by a strait.

According to the salinity of sea water, the Ionian Sea is one of the five most saline seas. The salt content of the Ionian Sea is 38‰. In addition, it is the deepest in the Mediterranean Sea, the maximum depth is 5121 m. The area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe water area is 169,000 km², the water is clean, transparent, casts blue.

The variety of flora and fauna in the Ionian Sea is provided by ecology and high water temperature - min t ° does not fall below 14 ° C in winter time. Of the large individuals, bottlenose dolphins, tuna, and sharks live in the waters. Plants are dominated by algae different types. Cephalopods breed well in the Ionian Sea: there is a wide variety of them, and edible molluscs.

The resorts of the Ionian coast are located in the Italian region of Calabria, the island of Sicily, Albania, on the islands of Crete (western part) and Corfu, where you can only fly from Russia. Flights to the Mediterranean are organized from Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Aegean Sea

The Aegean Sea washes the coast of Turkey and Greece, is another component of the Mediterranean. Half of its outskirts are fenced by land: on the east side - by Turkey, from the west - by the Balkan coast, in the north - by the island of Lemnos and the Halkidiki peninsula. Access to the Mediterranean basin is blocked by many different-sized islands.

In total, there are almost 2,000 islands in the Aegean Sea. In the northeast is the Dardanelles Strait, which separates it from the Sea of ​​Marmara.

The salinity of the ancient water area is 38.5 ‰, which is higher than the average oceanic level. The total area is 179,000 km², the maximum depth is up to 2500 m, the calculated average depth is 1000 m. The bottom of the Aegean Sea is very picturesque, covered with white sand, on which bright emerald grass grows. The water is clear, with an azure hue.

The relief is bizarre with numerous naturally created grottoes. The main species of representatives of flora and fauna are similar to the Ionian Sea, but not so numerous. A large number of sponges, octopuses, cuttlefish, and small cat sharks live in the Aegean Sea. There are peculiar inhabitants of the depths: clown fish, parrot fish, shellfish - a sea saucer.

Getting from Russia to the resorts of Turkey on the Aegean coast will not be a problem. Travel agencies offer tours with flights for every taste from different cities. You can easily fly to Greek Athens from St. Petersburg and Moscow.

Mediterranean Sea

Being in the list of the largest, high-water seas of the world, the Mediterranean Sea is assigned to the Atlantic Ocean. Its water area covers 2,500,000 km² and serves as a division for Europe, Africa and Asia. The shores are so curved and cut into the water area that the protruding parts of the land delimit it into several marginal seas.

Due to its huge size and multi-level bottom topography, the depth of the Mediterranean Sea ranges from a minimum average of 242 m to a maximum depth of 5121 m.

In the ranking of the most salty seas, the Mediterranean Sea is in 3rd place. Its salinity level is set at 39.5 ‰. From the Atlantic side, sea water has a lower salinity due to the mixing of waters through the Strait of Gibraltar. The largest river flowing into the Mediterranean basin from the south is the Nile.

The flora and fauna are characterized by a variety of species with a relatively small number of inhabitants. The poverty of plankton limits the existence of larger living creatures due to lack of food. Among the animal inhabitants there are white-bellied seals, sea turtles, rays. A variety of fish individuals - 550 species.

An important place is occupied by commercial, edible mollusks and invertebrate representatives. It is easier and faster to get to all the seas of the Mediterranean basin from Russia by plane. But still, it is possible to travel by train from Moscow with 2 transfers via Minsk or Warsaw. Travel time will take 4-5 days.

Red sea

The Red Sea takes 2nd place in the top 10 in terms of salinity, taking into account the Dead Sea. Its indicator of salt content in sea water is 40-40.5 ‰, fluctuations are from 38 to 42 ‰. Such elevated level salinity is explained by the absence of flowing freshwater rivers. It shares the eastern side of the African continent with Saudi Arabia, washes the coasts of Egypt, Jordan, Sudan and Israel.

The most salty sea in which you cannot drown (as in the Russian Sea of ​​​​Japan) covers an area of ​​​​438,000 km². Its maximum depth reaches more than 2000 m. The bottom relief is not uniform, there are many sharp drops. This sea is also the warmest in the world, even in winter the water temperature does not drop below +20°C.

Surprisingly, the Red Sea is that with such a high salinity, there are a huge number of species of underwater inhabitants in it. Ichthyologists described 1.5 thousand fish and invertebrates, about 300 species of various corals. Mysteries of the Red Sea today puzzle scientists around the world, all the depths are not fully understood.

The Red Sea attracts a lot of tourists. Airports to which there are direct flights from Russia are located in Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Israel. Domestic airlines or buses will deliver directly to the coast.

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is only called the sea, in reality it is a drainless lake. In terms of salinity - 270 ‰, it ranks 1st in the world and exceeds the average oceanic one by 8.6 times. In addition to salts, it has a unique amount of minerals in the composition of water, which has a beneficial healing effect on health.

Located between Palestine, Jordan and Israel. There is a tributary - the Jordan River. The dimensions of the Dead Sea are 67 km long and 18 km wide. The maximum depth of the reservoir is 377 m, it is considered the deepest lake in the world.

The highest concentration of salinity does not allow any life to develop in the Dead Sea. At the same time, the smallest microorganisms were still found in the water of the lake.

Masses of people who want to improve their health rush to the Dead Sea. There is a bus service from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem to the lake. Also, one-day excursions to the Dead Sea are organized from any Israeli city.

Top 5 saltiest seas in Russia

Curious details about its underwater world:

• some individuals migrate from the north to southern waters in cold weather;
• small jellyfish live in underwater thickets, contact with which causes paralysis, and a second bite can be fatal;
• 12 species of sharks are found in the depths.

The most salty sea in Russia after Japan is the Barents Sea. Its salinity is determined at 32-35 ‰.

Facts for fans of interesting things:

• the entire water area of ​​the Barents Sea is located beyond the Arctic Circle;
• in April, 75% of its area is occupied by floating icebergs;
• in 4 years all the waters of the sea are renewed.

The Bering Sea with a salinity level of 28-33.5% is in 3rd place in Russia.

Interesting details about him:

• considered the largest sea in Russia;
• the northern margins of its water area are already covered with ice at the very beginning of autumn, and thaw only at the end of May, beginning of June;
• The Bering Sea is stretched by 3 climatic zones- arctic, subarctic and temperate.

The list continues with the Sea of ​​Okhotsk with a salinity of 25-33 ‰, which occupies the 4th place.

Its attractions:

• the glow of water and ice, caused by phosphorescent plankton living in it, was recorded;
• almost 120 rivers flow into this sea;
• fishing in the waters of the Sea of ​​Okhotsk is the absolute right of Russia.

Curious facts:

• the only sea that washes only the borders of Russia;
• in former times, this sea was called - Studenoe;
• the Vikings called the White Sea - the Bay of Serpents, because of the curvature of the coastline.

Top 5 Russian seas in descending order in the table:

The most salty lakes in Russia where you can not drown

Russian lakes with a high salt content are not inferior to the Dead Sea in terms of therapeutic effects on the human body. Many of them have a higher mineral content. Their salinity is so high that it is impossible to drown in them.

The most salty of them:

1. Lake Baskunchak is located in the Astrakhan region. The area of ​​the reservoir is 106 km², the depth reaches 3 m. Saturation with sodium salts (300 g / l) is supplemented with mineral mud used in the treatment various diseases.
2. Lake Collapse- a reservoir formed on the site of a salt quarry by filling with flood waters. Deep lake, in some places up to 18-22 m, small size– 0.068 km², located in Sol-Iletsk Orenburg region. The high content of salt (200 g/l) and minerals favors the treatment of many diseases.
3. Lake Elton, located near the Kazakh border, in the Volgograd region, has a second name - Golden Lake. In terms of salt saturation, it is ahead of the Dead Sea - up to 400 g / l. Filled with a mixture of salt solution with hydrogen sulfide mud. The area of ​​the lake is 152 km² with a shallow depth of only 1.5 m. Not far from it is the sanatorium of the same name.

Article formatting: Lozinsky Oleg

Video about the most salty seas of Russia

Features of the most salty sea in Russia - the Sea of ​​Japan:

The fact that the water in the sea is salty - everyone knows firsthand. But most people will most likely find it difficult to answer the question of which sea is the most salty on the planet. However, it is unlikely that a person thought about why the sea is salty and whether there is life in the saltiest sea in the world.

The oceans are a single whole natural organism. On the planet, they occupy two-thirds of the entire terrestrial space. Well, sea water, which fills the world's oceans, is considered the most common substance on the surface of the Earth. It has a bitter-salty taste; sea water differs from fresh water in transparency and color, specific gravity and aggressive effect on materials. And this is explained simply - in sea water there are more than 50 different components.

The most salty seas in the world

The White Sea is also characterized by high salinity. In the surface layers, the indicator stopped at 26 percent, but at depth it rises to 31 percent. In the Kara Sea, the salinity is about 34 percent, however, it is not uniform, and at the mouths of the inflowing rivers, the water becomes almost fresh. Another of the most salty seas in the world can be called the Laptev Sea. At the surface, salinity is fixed at 28 percent. The figure is even higher - 31-33 percent - in the Chukchi Sea. But this is in winter, in summer the salinity drops.

Which sea is saltier

Certainly not saltier than the Mediterranean is another famous sea - the Caspian Sea. The Caspian boasts a rich wildlife - 1809 species. Most of the world's sturgeon stocks live in the sea, as well as freshwater fish (perch, carp and vobla). Vegetable world is also very rich - there are 728 species of plants in the Caspian Sea, but, of course, algae predominate. An interesting fact is that in Karakalpakstan there is a unique natural object- Aral Sea. And its distinguishing feature is that it can be called the second dead sea. Half a century ago, the Aral Sea had a standard salinity. However, as soon as water was taken from the sea for irrigation, salinity began to rise, and by 2010 it had increased 10 times. The Dead Sea is called not only in terms of salinity, but also due to the fact that many inhabitants of the Aral Sea died out as a protest against the increase in salinity.

Why are the seas salty

But according to the scientific hypothesis, salt water has become a different path. All water in the seas and oceans is taken from rivers. However, in the latter flows fresh water. And on average, 35 grams of salts are dissolved in one liter of the World Ocean. According to scientists, every grain of salt is washed out of the soil by river waters and sent to the sea. Over the centuries and millennia, more and more salt has been washed into the oceans. And she can't go anywhere.

There is a version that the water in the oceans and seas was originally salty. The first reservoir on the planet, allegedly filled with acid rain that fell to earth as a result of a major volcanic eruption at the beginning of the planet's life. Acids, according to scientists, corroded rocks, entered into chemical compounds with them. Eventually chemical reactions salt water appeared, which now fills the oceans.

The most salty sea in the world

The salty Red Sea is very well and evenly mixed. In winter, surface waters cool down, sink down, raising warm waters from the depths of the sea. In summer, water evaporates from the surface, the remaining becomes salty and heavy, and therefore sinks down. Not so salty water rises up. Thus, the water is mixed. The sea is the same in salinity and temperature everywhere, except for the depressions.

By the way, the discovery of depressions in the Red Sea with hot brine in the 60s of the last century was a real discovery for scientists. The brine in such depressions has a temperature of 30 to 60 degrees Celsius, and it rises by a maximum of 0.7 degrees per year. It turns out that the water is heated from the inside by "earthly" heat. And scientists say that the brine does not mix with sea water and differs from it in chemical terms.

In the Red Sea, there is no coastal runoff (rivers and rain streams). As a result, there is no dirt from the land, but there is crystal clear water. All year round the temperature is kept at the level of 20-25 degrees. This led to the wealth, as well as the uniqueness of marine life in the sea.

Why is the Red Sea the saltiest? Some say that the most salty is the Dead Sea. Its salinity is 40 times higher than the salinity of the Baltic Sea and 8 times higher than the Atlantic Ocean. However, it is impossible to call the Dead Sea the most salty, but it is considered the warmest.

The Dead Sea is located on the territory of Jordan and Israel in Western Asia. Its area is more than 605 square kilometers with a maximum depth of 306 meters. The only river that flows into this famous sea is the Jordan. There is no exit from the sea, therefore, according to science, it is more correct to call it a lake.
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02/10/2016 at 21:20 · pavlofox · 70 920

The most salty seas in the world

Around the world, there are about 80 seas that are an integral part of the oceans. All these waters are salty, but among them there are record holders, which are distinguished by a high concentration of salts and other minerals in their composition. by the most fresh sea the Baltic Sea is considered on the planet, the salinity of which is only 7 ‰ (ppm), which is equal to 7 grams per 1 liter of water. Among all the rest, we singled out the saltiest seas in the world.

10. White Sea | Salinity 30‰

They belong to the most salty seas in the world. Salinity here can reach 30‰ in some places. This is one of the smallest seas in Russia, with an area of ​​90,000 sq. km. The temperature here rises to 15 degrees in summer and drops to minus 1 degree in winter. The inhabitants of the White Sea are about 50 species of fish, including white whale, salmon, cod, smelt and others.

9. Chukchi Sea | Salinity 33‰

Included in the ten most salty in the world. Its salinity in winter is higher and can reach 33‰. It is located between Chukotka and Alaska on an area of ​​589,600 sq. km. The water temperature here is quite low: in summer - 12 degrees above zero, and in winter - minus 1.8 degrees. Walruses, seals, as well as fish - grayling, polar cod, Far Eastern navaga, arctic char and others live here.

8. Laptev Sea | Salinity 34‰

Covering an area of ​​662,000 sq. km., are among the most salty in the world. It is located between the New Siberian Islands and the Severnaya Zemlya Islands. The salinity of its waters reaches 34‰ in places, and the water temperature does not rise above 0 degrees all year round. IN sea ​​depths walrus, sterlet, sturgeon, perch and other animals live.

7. Barents Sea | Salinity 35‰

With a salinity of 35‰, it is one of the saltiest on earth and the most salty in Russia. It is washed by the waters of the White Sea and has an area of ​​1,424,000 sq. km. In winter, only the southwestern part of the sea does not freeze, the temperature here in summer does not exceed plus 12 degrees. The underwater world here is quite rich in fish, including capelin, perch, herring, catfish, killer whale, beluga and others.

6. Sea of ​​Japan | Salinity 35‰

Located between the shores of Eurasia, the Japanese Islands, as well as the island of Sakhalin, they are among the most salty in the world. Its salinity reaches 35‰. annual temperature water fluctuates between 0-+ 12 degrees in the north, and in the southern part 17-26 degrees above zero. Animal world here is very rich and includes many species of fish. Herring, pollock, saffron cod, flounder, pink salmon, chum salmon, anchovies, crabs, shrimps, oysters, squids and many others live here. Japanese salt waters occupy an area of ​​1,062,000 sq. km.

5. Ionian Sea | Salinity 38‰

4. Aegean Sea | Salinity 38.5‰

Aegean one of the ten most salty seas in the world. Its salinity is about 38.5‰. Due to the high salinity, after bathing in such water, it is recommended to wash yourself with fresh water, since a high concentration of sodium can adversely affect the skin and mucous membranes. The winter temperature here is about 14 degrees above zero, and the summer is plus 24 degrees. It is inhabited by octopuses, sardines, sponges and other inhabitants. It is located between the peninsulas of the Balkans, Asia Minor and the island of Crete. The Aegean Sea has existed for about 20,000 years. It was formed as a result of the flooding of the Egenid land and occupied an area of ​​179,000 sq.m. Its appearance led to the formation of the islands of Crete, Lesbos, Euboea and others.

3. Mediterranean Sea | Salinity 39.5‰

Located between Europe and Africa. It is rightfully considered one of the most salty seas in the world, the salinity of which reaches 39.5 ‰ in places. It also applies to the most warm seas The oceans - the temperature here is plus 25 degrees in summer and minus 12 degrees in winter. It is inhabited by seals, sea turtles, as well as more than 500 species of fish, including sharks, rays, blennies, lobsters, crabs, mussels and many, many others.

2. Red Sea | Salinity 42‰

Located between Africa and Asia, one of the saltiest on planet Earth. Its salinity reaches 42 ‰, which is about 41 grams per liter of water. A very rich underwater world is concentrated here: sharks, dolphins, rays, moray eels and other living creatures are the inhabitants of the Red Sea. The water temperature is 25 degrees above zero all year round. In the Red Sea, the water is very well and evenly mixed. In winter, surface waters cool down, become denser and sink down, while warm waters from the depths rise up. In summer, water evaporates from the surface of the sea, and the remaining water becomes saltier, heavier and sinks. Less salty water rises in its place. Thus, the water in the sea is intensively mixed throughout the year, and throughout its volume the sea is the same in temperature and salinity, except in the depressions. In addition, the sea boasts amazing transparency.

1. Dead Sea | Salinity 270‰

- the saltiest in the world, which is located on the border of Israel and Jordan. The content of minerals is about 270 ‰, and the concentration of salts per 1 liter reaches 200 grams. The composition of the salts of the sea is significantly different from all others. It consists of 50% magnesium chloride, and is also rich in potassium, bromine, calcium and many other mineral elements. Potassium salts are artificially crystallized from its water. Water has the highest density here, which is 1.3-1.4 g / m³, which completely eliminates the possibility of drowning. In addition to unique salts, the sea contains therapeutic mud, which contains 45% salts. Its characteristics are a high pH value of 9, as well as a bitter and oily taste. The sea temperature can reach 40 degrees above zero, which creates intense evaporation and contributes to high density. If in other waters with high salinity diverse inhabitants live, then in the waters of the Dead Sea they cannot be found.

What else to see:

The Earth can be safely called a water planet, because the World Ocean surrounding the land covers 71% of its entire surface. , which are included in its composition, differ from each other in many respects. Including such a parameter as salinity, which means the amount of salts dissolved in one liter of water under certain conditions. The salinity of sea water is most often measured in "‰" (ppm). Now it will not be difficult to find out which is the saltiest sea on Earth.

5. Ionian Sea - salinity exceeds 38‰

The Ionian Sea is a part of the Mediterranean, which washes the shores of southern Italy and Greece. The bottom of the sea is covered with silt, and closer to the coast - with sand and small shell rock. Its area is 169 thousand km², the maximum depth is 5,121 m. This is the greatest depth in the entire Mediterranean Sea. There is an industrial catch of mackerel, mullet, tuna, flounder. The waters of the Ionian Sea are safe and very warm, even in February their temperature does not fall below 14°C, and at the peak of the holiday season, in August, it reaches 25.5°C. Among its inhabitants can be called bottlenose dolphins, huge turtles, octopuses. And very dangerous sea urchins and white sharks can hardly be found near the coast. Poisonous dragon fish that can cause an allergic reaction in humans are more active at night and burrow into the sand during the day.

4. Aegean Sea - salinity from 37 to 40.0 ‰

This semi-enclosed sea has about 20,000 islands and is located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean. The total area is 179 thousand km². Through the straits it is connected with Marble, Black and mediterranean seas. The salinity of its waters is increasing, which is associated with general warming. After bathing, it is recommended to wash off the sea water, as this can adversely affect the condition of the skin and mucous membranes of the eyes. There is fishing in the Aegean Sea, sponges are actively mined, octopuses are caught. Due to the fact that there is little plankton in this sea, fishing in its waters is gradually declining.

3. Ligurian Sea - salinity 38 ‰

This sea is located in the western part of the Mediterranean. The shores are steep and rocky, but there are sandy beaches. Many small rivers flow into the Ligurian Sea, which originate in the Apennines. On its shores there are such important ports as:

• Lympia, which is considered the sea gate of Nice.
• Cruise ports of Savona, La Spezia with container and bulk terminals.
• The Genoese port, which ranks first in terms of trade volume in Italy.

Despite high salinity these waters, on the French-Italian coast of the Ligurian Sea is one of the most famous resort areas in the world - the Riviera.

2. Mediterranean Sea - salinity from 36 to 39.5 ‰

The Mediterranean Sea is a relic of the ancient Tethys Ocean. It is considered one of the largest seas in size, its area is 2.5 million km². Its basin includes the Azov, Black and Marmara seas. The salinity of the sea fluctuates significantly, as water comes from the Atlantic through the Strait of Gibraltar, the salinity of which is much lower. The amount of zooplankton in the Mediterranean Sea is relatively small, as a result, there are few and various kinds fish, as well as marine animals and mammals. But algae are represented in large numbers, especially peridine and diatoms. The benthic fauna is very poor because of the yellowish silt, which is not conducive to the development of life. There are 550 fish species in the Mediterranean Sea, 70 of which are endemic. More often than others, there are: mackerel, sardine, horse mackerel, mullet, etc. There are also larger "inhabitants" - sharks, rays, tuna. Edible shellfish are common.

1. Red Sea - salinity 41 ‰

The saltiest of all, the Red Sea is located in a tectonic basin, the depth of which can reach up to 3 km. It is an inland sea of ​​the Indian Ocean. The hot climate, which provokes strong surface evaporation and low precipitation (about 100 mm per year), the absence of rivers flowing into the sea, leads to a gradual increase in its salinity. Due to the absence of silt and sand, which are abundant in river water, the Red Sea is distinguished by extraordinary transparency and purity. The water temperature even in winter is +20 °C, and in summer it is much higher.

Despite its salinity, the waters of the Red Sea amaze with a huge number of different species of fish living in it. But ichthyologists believe that only 60% of fish that can exist at great depths have been discovered. The sea is unusually beautiful, and there are many interesting and sometimes funny inhabitants in it, but it is strictly forbidden to touch them. Corals, sponges, jellyfish, as well as sea urchins, moray eels and poisonous sea snakes are potentially extremely dangerous. Any contact with them can result in a burn, significant blood loss or a pronounced allergic reaction, and sometimes death. 44 species of sharks live in warm sea waters. The most terrible of them is the tiger, which can easily attack a person.

Having considered separately, it is now easy to conclude which is the most salty sea. The salinity of the very famous Dead Sea reaches 350 ‰, but in fact, despite the name, it is an endorheic lake that gradually dries up.

There are about eighty seas on Earth. Some of them are part of the World Ocean. Many people know that all reservoirs of this type are salty. Not everyone knows about the concentration of alkalis in different seas. We propose to consider the most salty seas in the world. Before that, I would like to remind you that the Baltic Sea is the freshest sea. The salt content in this reservoir is only 7 percent. It follows that for one liter of water from the Baltic Sea there are only 7 grams of salts.

10 Saltest Lakes in the World

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Closes the Top 10 most salty seas on the planet White. In places, the salt content is 30%. At the same time, this reservoir is considered one of the smallest in Russia among the seas. The area is only 90 thousand square meters. In winter, the temperature reaches -1 degrees. In summer, the temperature rises to +15 degrees. In total, there are about 50 different types of fish in the sea. Among them, salmon, cod and beluga should be noted. Occasionally comes across smelt.

The Chukchi Sea is also among the ten most saline seas in the world, the composition of alkalis in which reaches 33%. This unique reservoir is located between Alaska and Chukotka. Its area is 589 thousand square kilometers. It is worth noting that the water temperature in summer reaches a maximum of 12 degrees. At the same time, in winter, it can drop to -1.8 degrees. In addition to being cold, the Chukchi Sea has a unique wildlife. Walruses, seals and unique species of fish live here. In particular, grayling, cod and Far Eastern navaga.

Do not forget about the reservoir that stretches between Novosibirsk and the islands of Severnaya Zemlya. We are talking about the Laptev Sea, whose area is 662 thousand square kilometers. The salinity of the water reaches 34%. The temperature never rises above 0 degrees. It should be noted that perch, sterlet and sturgeon are found at the bottom of this sea. The walrus also lives in the sea. Every year, surfing championships are held in the expanses of the sea, which is due to large waves.

In the territory Russian Federation You won't find a more dangerous body of water. At the same time, it belongs to the most salty seas on the planet. The area is 1.4 thousand square kilometers. In the cold season, the temperature varies from 10 to 12 degrees. In winter, it can reach -4 to -5 degrees. The underwater world deserves special attention. Here you can meet capelin, perch, herring and even catfish. Also, from time to time, anglers manage to catch beluga and killer whales. Actually, the last animal is not only prey, but also a danger to many fishermen and sailors.

Closes the first top 5 of the most salty seas of Japan. It stretches between the shores of the islands of Japan and Eurasia. In addition, it covers part of Sakhalin. average temperature per year varies from 0 to 12 degrees. In the southern part, the temperature can drop to -26 degrees. This is a very cold reservoir, which also amazes with the diversity of the animal, underwater world. Most of the marine fauna are anchovies and crabs. However, you can catch a lot of shrimp, oysters and herring. Actually, this is the reason for such a choice of seafood in Japanese cuisine.

In Greece, this reservoir is considered the most saline and at the same time dense. However, all over the world. This sea is perfect for people who are just on their way to learning how to swim. The sea literally holds on the surface. Due to the density in it, it is almost impossible to go to the bottom. In summer, the water temperature reaches 26 degrees above zero. In winter, it can drop to +14. Thus, we see that the inhabitants of the sea, including mackerel, flounder and tuna, have enough heat. However, as well as vacationers, who can be seen on the territory of the reservoir throughout the year.

38.5% salts

Another saltiest sea in the world that reaches the shores of Greece. This time we are talking about a very concentrated content of alkalis. Experts recommend rinsing with fresh water after bathing in this water, as the epithelial layer of the skin can be damaged. Sodium that concentrates on the skin can lead to impaired bleeding and create cracks. As for the water temperature, it stays around 14 degrees even in winter. In summer it reaches +24 degrees. The sea has existed for more than 20 thousand years. Its area is 179 thousand square meters.

39.5% salts

Opens the top three in the area of ​​the most salty seas of the Earth Mediterranean. It stretches between Africa and Europe. It should be noted that this reservoir is also considered the warmest in the world, due to the following indicators. In winter, the minimum temperature reaches 12 degrees. In summer, it can exceed the temperature of +25 degrees. In total, about 500 species of fish live in the sea. Sharks should also be included among them. There are crabs, blennies and mussels. Electric rays, which are listed in the Red Book, deserve special attention.