Adding the Fifth Ocean to the Earth Map
National Geographic has added the Antarctic Ocean to its list of the world's oceans, updating its maps for the first time in more than 100 years.
With this announcement, it may be wrong to say that the Earth has four oceans, as it became five after the official announcement made by the network.
National Geographic announced this week that it will officially recognize the Southern Ocean, the area of water surrounding Antarctica.
National Geographic has added the Antarctic Ocean to its list of the world's oceans, updating its maps for the first time in more than 100 years.
With this announcement, it may be wrong to say that the Earth has four oceans, as it became five after the official announcement made by the network.
National Geographic announced this week that it will officially recognize the Southern Ocean, the area of water surrounding Antarctica.
According to the US Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, "historically, there are four oceans bearing the names: Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, and Arctic."
"Most countries - including the United States - now recognize the Antarctic Ocean as the fifth ocean," the foundation added.
National Geographic explained that the Southern Ocean was recognized by the United States Board of Geographical Names as a body of water extending from the coast of Antarctica to latitude 60 south.
A proposal for the limits of the ocean was submitted to the International Hydrographic Organization, but some countries did not agree to the proposed limits, which prevented the ratification of the order by the members of the organization.