Ionian Sea
Geography
The Ionian Sea is an elongated embayment of the Mediterranean Sea, south of the Adriatic Sea. It is bounded by southern Italy including Calabria, Sicily and the Salento peninsula to the west, southern Albania to the north, and the west coast of Greece, including the Peloponnese.
All major islands in the sea belong to Greece. They are collectively referred to as the Ionian Islands, the major ones being Corfu, Zakynthos, Kephalonia, Ithaca, and Lefkada. There are ferry routes linking Patras and Igoumenitsa, Greece, and Brindisi and Ancona, Italy, that cross the east and north of the Ionian Sea, and from Piraeus westward. Calypso Deep, the deepest point in the Mediterranean at −5,267 m (−17,280 ft), is located in the Ionian Sea, at 38.735°N 20.390°E.
Hydrography
The Ionian Sea, like all the Mediterranean, is a marine desert, despite its stunning beauty. The sea is characterised by limited species diversity and high levels of endemism. The lack of diversity is probably a result of the sea's isolation from the Atlantic Ocean, a barrier that also encourages endemism. The Ionian Sea has been explored for its marine biodiversity and geology.
History
The Ionian Sea has been the site of many historical events. In the ancient era, the sea was the site of the legendary wandering of Odysseus. It was also the site of several naval battles, including the Battle of Actium, which led to the establishment of Augustus as the leader of the Roman Empire.
Economy
The Ionian Sea is notable for its economic contributions, particularly in the areas of tourism, agriculture, and shipping. The sea's beautiful beaches and clear waters make it a popular destination for tourists, particularly during the summer months. The sea also provides a source of income for fishermen, who harvest a variety of fish and shellfish from its waters.
Environmental Issues
Despite its beauty, the Ionian Sea faces several environmental challenges. Overfishing has led to a decline in fish populations, and pollution from agricultural runoff and shipping has degraded water quality. Efforts are being made to address these issues and preserve the sea's natural beauty for future generations.