Gulf of Tonkin

The Gulf of Tonkin, also known as the Tonkin Gulf, is a large, wedge-shaped body of water located in Southeast Asia. It forms part of the South China Sea and is bordered by the Vietnamese coast to the west and the Chinese province of Guangxi to the north. The gulf is a significant waterway for trade and fishing, and it also has a complex history and geopolitical importance.

Naval Shipworm, Ships Worm – Teredo navalis

Penguin Wing Oyster – Pteria penguin

Pearl Oyster, Black-lip Pearl Shell – Pinctada margaritifera

Nail Sea Star – Mithrodia clavigera

Bood Red Spanish Dancer – Hexabranchus sanguineus

White-Striped Octopus, Ornate Octopus – Callistoctopus ornatus

Lined Chromodoris – Chromodoris lineolata

Spotted White Sea Slug – Chromodoris orientalis

Crowned Jellyfish – Cephea cephea

Shaggy Aegires, Hairy Norse God – Aegires villosus

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Geography

The Gulf of Tonkin extends approximately 300 kilometers (190 miles) from north to south and 200 kilometers (120 miles) from east to west. It has a total area of about 120,000 square kilometers (46,000 square miles) and a maximum depth of around 1,000 meters (3,300 feet). The gulf is fed by several major rivers, including the Red River, the Black River, and the Thai Binh River, which contribute to its freshwater inflow and sediment load.

Fauna

The Gulf of Tonkin is rich in marine life and supports a diverse ecosystem. It is home to a variety of fish species, including tuna, mackerel, grouper, and cod. Other notable fauna includes sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and various species of coral. The gulf is also an important breeding ground for several species of migratory birds.

Surrounding Countries

The Gulf of Tonkin is bordered by two countries:

  • Vietnam: The majority of the gulf's coastline is located along the Vietnamese coast, with major cities like Hai Phong and Quang Ninh located on the gulf's shores.
  • China: The northern part of the gulf borders the Chinese province of Guangxi. The city of Beihai, China, lies on the gulf's northern edge.

Climate and Water Temperature

The Gulf of Tonkin has a tropical monsoon climate with warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. The average annual temperature ranges from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius (68 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit). Water temperature varies throughout the year, with the warmest periods occurring during the summer months. The gulf is also prone to typhoons, especially during the late summer and early autumn.

Historical Significance

The Gulf of Tonkin has a long and complex history. During the Vietnam War, it was the site of several naval battles, including the infamous Gulf of Tonkin Incident in 1964, which led to the escalation of U.S. involvement in the war. The gulf also played a key role in the development of the Vietnamese fishing industry and the region's trade routes.

Current Status

The Gulf of Tonkin continues to play a vital role in the economies of Vietnam and China. Fishing remains a major industry, and the gulf is also a significant shipping route. However, the gulf faces several environmental challenges, including pollution from industrial activities, overfishing, and climate change. Efforts are underway to protect the gulf's marine ecosystem and ensure its sustainability for future generations.