Sign In

- Or use -
Forgot Password Create Account
Description

This map, titled World Oceanography, is from The Times Atlas (1957) and features a detailed set of maps designed in the innovative "Lotus Projection."

The central focus is a bathymetric chart, showcasing global ocean depths and surface currents. Warm and cold currents are depicted with arrows indicating their flow directions during the northern hemisphere’s summer and winter, emphasizing the dynamic movement of ocean waters. This central chart provides a foundational understanding of marine topography and circulation.

In the upper left corner, a map of Mean Surface Salinity illustrates the salinity levels of global oceans, measured in parts per thousand. The map highlights significant variations, such as the higher salinity found in subtropical regions due to evaporation and the lower salinity near polar zones and river outflows. These patterns underscore the influence of climate and geography on ocean chemistry.

The upper right map depicts Types of Marine Fauna, categorizing global waters based on the dominant marine life. Continental waters are shown to host species like cod, haddock, and herring, while tropical waters feature flying fish and swordfish. Polar waters are home to seals and penguins, and oceanic temperate zones host tuna, sharks, and albatross. This classification reflects the ecological diversity driven by varying temperature, salinity, and oceanic currents.

At the bottom of the sheet, two maps represent Mean Surface Temperatures for January and July. These maps contrast seasonal variations in ocean surface temperatures, measured in degrees Fahrenheit. They highlight warmer equatorial zones and cooler polar regions, with a noticeable shift in temperature bands between the two seasons. These visuals provide insight into the seasonal dynamics of the world's oceans.

The use of the "Lotus Projection" for all maps on this sheet ensures continuity in representing ocean flow and spatial relationships. This innovative projection makes the plate both visually striking and scientifically detailed, offering a mid-20th-century perspective on oceanographic knowledge and its critical interplay of physical and biological systems.