The Red Sea
Syllabus: Geography / Environment (UPSC Prelims)
Source: The Times of India
Context
New geological research by KAUST scientists in Saudi Arabia reveals that the Red Sea completely dried up for nearly 100,000 years around 6.2 million years ago before being refilled by a massive flood, offering insights into its geological history.
About the Red Sea
What It Is
- A narrow, elongated saltwater inlet of the Indian Ocean, situated between northeastern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
- One of the world’s youngest seas, formed ~30 million years ago due to the rift between the African and Arabian tectonic plates.
Location
- Extends southeast from Suez (Egypt) for ~1,200 miles (1,930 km) to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, connecting to the Gulf of Aden and Arabian Sea.
- Bordering Nations: Egypt, Sudan, Eritrea, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.
Key Features
- Geological Origin: Lies in a rift valley, part of the East African Rift System, marking the separation of Africa and Arabia.
- Dimensions: Covers ~450,000 sq km with a maximum depth of 3,040 m (9,974 ft).
- Salinity and Temperature: Among the hottest and saltiest seas, due to high evaporation and limited freshwater inflow.
- Marine Biodiversity: Hosts extensive coral reefs, unique brine pools, and diverse marine ecosystems.
- Volcanic Activity: Features underwater volcanoes and geothermal sites, reflecting ongoing tectonic movement.
Significance
- Strategic Maritime Route: Provides a crucial link between Europe and Asia via the Suez Canal, handling a significant share of global maritime trade.
- Economic Importance: Supports shipping, tourism, and fishing industries for bordering nations.
Conclusion
The Red Sea is not only a geologically dynamic and ecologically rich region but also a strategically and economically vital waterway. Recent discoveries about its ancient dry phase highlight the complexity of its formation and environmental history.
