Marmara Sea

The Sea of Marmara, also known as the Marmara Sea, is an inland sea in northwestern Turkey. It connects the Black Sea to the Aegean Sea through the Bosphorus Strait and the Dardanelles Strait, respectively. Located strategically at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, it is one of the world’s busiest waterways and holds immense economic and historical significance.

Smooth Scallop – Flexopecten glaber

Warty Venus – Venus verrucosa

Oculina Patagonica – Oculina patagonica

Boxlip mullet – Oedalechilus labeo

European Flat Oyster, Edible Oyster, Common Oyster – Ostrea edulis

John dory – Zeus faber

Eckström’s topknot – Zeugopterus regius

Black goby – Gobius niger

Sea Urchin – Gracilechinus acutus

Three-bearded rockling – Gaidropsarus vulgaris

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Geography

The Sea of Marmara has a surface area of approximately 11,350 square kilometers (4,380 sq mi) and a maximum depth of 1,260 meters (4,130 ft). Its average depth is about 500 meters (1,600 ft). The sea is shaped like a crescent, with the northern part being wider and shallower than the southern part. The coastline is heavily indented, featuring numerous islands, bays, and inlets.

Fauna

The Sea of Marmara supports a diverse marine ecosystem. It is home to a variety of fish species, including anchovy, bonito, mackerel, and mullet. Other notable inhabitants include dolphins, seals, and various types of mollusks and crustaceans. However, the sea has also been affected by pollution, overfishing, and climate change, which have led to a decline in some fish stocks and habitat loss.

Surrounding Countries

The Sea of Marmara is entirely surrounded by Turkey. It separates the European part of Turkey (Thrace) from the Asian part (Anatolia). The major cities located on the shores of the Sea of Marmara include Istanbul, Bursa, Yalova, Kocaeli, Tekirdag, and Balikesir.

Climate

The climate of the Sea of Marmara is Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average annual temperature is around 15 °C (59 °F). The sea freezes only occasionally, and then only in the shallow bays.

Islands

The Sea of Marmara is dotted with numerous islands, the largest of which are:

  • Prinkipo (also known as Büyükada)
  • Heybeliada
  • Burgazada
  • Kınalıada
  • Sedef Adası

These islands were once popular summer resorts for the Ottoman elite, and they still attract tourists today. They offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, which is located on the opposite side of the sea.

History

The Sea of Marmara has played a significant role in history, serving as a vital link between the Black Sea and the Aegean Sea. It was a key trade route for the ancient Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. The sea was also the site of many naval battles, including the Battle of Gallipoli during World War I.

Modern Significance

Today, the Sea of Marmara remains a vital waterway, connecting the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea and serving as a major shipping route. Istanbul's strategic location at the mouth of the Bosphorus Strait makes the Sea of Marmara a key hub for international trade. Additionally, the sea is a popular destination for tourism, offering opportunities for swimming, sailing, fishing, and island hopping.