The Southern Ocean: Earth's Southernmost Ocean

The Southern Ocean is the southernmost ocean on Earth, encircling Antarctica and extending north to 60 degrees south latitude. It forms a distinct body of water where the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans converge. Defined by the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, the Southern Ocean plays a critical role in global climate regulation, carbon sequestration, and marine biodiversity, supporting unique ecosystems adapted to its cold, nutrient-rich waters.