Java Sea

The Java Sea is a marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean situated between the islands of Borneo, Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi in Indonesia. It is a relatively shallow sea with an average depth of 45 meters (148 feet) and a maximum depth of 1,500 meters (4,921 feet). The sea is characterized by warm, tropical waters with an average surface temperature of 26–29 °C (79–84 °F). The Java Sea is a vital waterway for shipping and trade, connecting the Indian Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. The sea is also home to a rich diversity of marine life, including coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds.

Galaxea Paucisepta – Galaxea paucisepta

Seafeather – Stephanometra indica

Zebrafish, Zebrafish, Brown Curryfish, Curryfish, Curry Fish Sea Cucumber, Brown Curryfish Sea Cucumber – Stichopus vastus

Geography

The Java Sea is a marginal sea of the western Pacific Ocean, located between the islands of Borneo, Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi in Indonesia. It is connected to the Indian Ocean through the Sunda Strait, which separates Sumatra and Java, and to the Pacific Ocean through the Makassar Strait, which separates Borneo and Sulawesi. The Java Sea is characterized by its relatively shallow depth and warm tropical waters. Its average depth is 45 meters (148 feet) and its maximum depth is 1,500 meters (4,921 feet). The sea is home to a number of islands, including the Karimunjawa Islands, Bawean, and Masalembo.

Fauna

The Java Sea is home to a diverse range of marine life, including:

  • Fish: A variety of fish species inhabit the Java Sea, including tuna, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and sharks. These fish are important for local fisheries and contribute to the region's economic activity.
  • Marine Mammals: The Java Sea is also home to various marine mammals, including dolphins, whales, and dugongs. These animals are often threatened by pollution, habitat loss, and fishing activities.
  • Reptiles: Sea turtles are a common sight in the Java Sea, with several species nesting on its shores. However, these reptiles are vulnerable to overfishing and habitat destruction.
  • Coral Reefs: Despite pollution and overfishing, the Java Sea is home to some coral reefs. These reefs provide critical habitats for many marine species and contribute to the region's tourism industry.
  • Mangroves: Mangrove forests along the coast of the Java Sea are important habitats for many species and act as natural barriers against erosion. These forests are threatened by deforestation and pollution.

Surrounding Countries

The Java Sea borders the following countries:

  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Brunei
  • Singapore

Facts and Figures

  • Area: 480,000 square kilometers (185,000 square miles)
  • Average Depth: 45 meters (148 feet)
  • Maximum Depth: 1,500 meters (4,921 feet)
  • Average Surface Temperature: 26–29 °C (79–84 °F)