Arafura Sea, Marine area between Australia and New Guinea, Indonesia
The Arafura Sea is a marine area between Australia and New Guinea with average depths of 50 to 80 meters. It contains numerous shallow zones and uncharted shoals that make navigation tricky in many places.
During the last ice age, this area was a land bridge that connected Australia to New Guinea, allowing people to migrate between the continents. As sea levels rose, the waters submerged this connection and formed the sea we see today.
The name comes from a Portuguese word for independent peoples who lived in the region. This linguistic heritage reflects the trading connections that once shaped these waters.
Visitors exploring this water should be aware that shallow areas require careful navigation and up-to-date charts. Taking local advice from experienced guides or fishermen helps avoid hazards when traveling by boat.
The sea is home to five of the seven turtle species found worldwide and supports the majority of flatback turtle breeding. These reptiles travel regularly between the surrounding coasts to feed and lay their eggs.
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