The Sea of Azov is famously called the “Mother of the Black Sea” due to its crucial geographical and ecological role in feeding into the larger Black Sea. Located northeast of the Black Sea and connected by the Kerch Strait, the Sea of Azov is shallow, nutrient-rich, and acts as a primary source of freshwater inflow—earning its maternal nickname. But why is this small sea so important? How does it influence the Black Sea’s ecosystem? And what makes their connection unique?
Why is the Sea of Azov Called the “Mother of the Black Sea”?
The Sea of Azov holds this title for several key reasons:
- Geographical Link – The Kerch Strait directly connects the Sea of Azov to the Black Sea, allowing water exchange.
- Freshwater Contribution – Major rivers like the Don and Kuban flow into the Sea of Azov, carrying nutrients that sustain marine life in the Black Sea.
- Shallow & Fertile Waters – With an average depth of just 7 meters, the Sea of Azov is the shallowest sea in the world, making it a breeding ground for fish and plankton that migrate into the Black Sea.
This “motherly” role highlights how the Sea of Azov nurtures the Black Sea’s ecosystem, much like a parent supports a child.
Key Features of the Sea of Azov
1. The Shallowest Sea in the World
- Average depth: 7 meters (23 feet)
- Maximum depth: Only 14 meters (46 feet)
- This shallowness allows sunlight to penetrate easily, promoting rich marine biodiversity.
2. Rich in Nutrients & Marine Life
- Fed by major rivers (Don, Kuban, and others), making it highly fertile.
- Home to over 300 fish species, including sturgeon, anchovies, and gobies.
- A crucial spawning ground for fish that later migrate to the Black Sea.
3. Strategic & Historical Importance
- A key trade route since ancient times (Greek colonies, Genoese merchants).
- Today, major ports like Mariupol (Ukraine) and Taganrog (Russia) operate here.
How is the Black Sea Connected to the Sea of Azov?
The two seas are linked by the Kerch Strait, a narrow passage that:
- Width: ~4.5 km (2.8 miles) at its narrowest point.
- Depth: ~18 meters (59 feet), limiting large ship traffic.
- Bridge Connection: The Crimean Bridge (built in 2018) spans this strait, connecting Crimea to mainland Russia.
This strait ensures a constant exchange of water, nutrients, and marine life between the two seas.
