Scientifically speaking, we know more about deep space than we do about the oceans which make up our planet. In terms of our understanding of the seas, we are really just skimming the surface and unbelievably, there is a lot about the earth that we just don’t know.
Under the water, things get a whole lot more interesting and the deeper that you go, the more that there is to be discovered. Covering more than 70% of our planet, the oceans of the world are like a treasure trove waiting to be discovered and these incredible places are just the beginning.
Lake Baikal – Russia
With the majority of its landscape frozen under winter tundra, Russia is rarely thought of as a watery wonder. In its lakes, however, there are marvels to be found. Lake Baikal in Serbia is believed to be the oldest lake in the world, and contains an incredible 20% of the planet’s natural water supplies. Even better, two thirds of the lake’s species cannot be found anywhere else in the world, making it a true researcher’s delight.Battle Of The Egadi Islands – Sicily
Archaeology isn’t just confined to the earth’s surface; in 2013, a huge underwater find made waves in the world of archaeology, and opened up new insight into the past. Off the coast of Sicily, 2,000 year old remains were discovered, believed to be the remnants of an ancient battle. Dating back to 241 BC, the ruins of the Egadi Islands are some of the most ancient known to man, and have opened up new insight for historians across the globe.
Belize Barrier Reef – West Indies
One of the lesser-known reefs around the world, Belize Barrier Reef is also one of the most beautiful. Home to one of the most diverse underwater ecosystems in the world, the reef hosts 500 types of fish, and 70 hard coral species. Scientists have just scratched the surface, though; more than 90% of the area is still open to be researched!
The Northern Red Sea – Asia/Africa
Described as the ocean’s answer to the Garden of Eden, the Northern Red Sea is one of the most stunning underwater spots in the world. Stretching 169,000 square miles, the water hosts some of the most beautiful tropical fish to be found around the globe. Unsurprisingly, the warm waters are a huge diving hot spot, and attract thousands of visitors a year.