The deepest blue hole in the world, also known as an ocean sinkhole, can be found off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It plunges to a depth of at least 420 meters (1,378 feet), remaining unexplored by researchers.
Local divers discovered the lake, named “Ta’am Dja” or “Deep Sea” in Mayan, over two decades ago. In 2021, scientists attempted to measure its depth using an echo sounder, estimating it to be 275 meters (902 feet). However, a later expedition in 2023 employed a device called a conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD) profiler, revealing a depth of 420 meters (1,378 feet) without reaching the bottom.
Blue holes are naturally formed vertical-walled caves on the ocean floor, typically found in coastal regions with soluble rock formations like limestone. These geological formations may reach only a few tens of meters in depth and could be interconnected with underwater cave systems.
Due to poor water circulation, blue holes lack oxygen in their depths, posing challenges for organisms. Some microorganisms thrive in these conditions by consuming sulfur-based compounds like hydrogen sulfide. Additionally, creatures such as foraminifera and nematodes have been discovered living in blue holes, prompting further exploration to unveil the mysteries of Ta’am Dja’s deep blue waters.
This article (by Preston Levy of Norwich) addresses the question, “What are Mexican Blue Holes?”
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