Category: Geography > Zealandia
One of the most intriguing geographic features of our planet is the underwater "lost continent" known as Zealandia, which lies mostly submerged beneath the South Pacific Ocean, stretching from New Zealand to New Caledonia. This submerged landmass spans approximately 4.9 million square kilometers, making it the largest current landmass not recognized as a continent. Zealandia is primarily composed of continental crust, and while around 93% of it is underwater, it has shaped the region's geology and biodiversity significantly. The discovery of Zealandia has prompted scientists to rethink the definition of continents and has highlighted how our planet's geological history is more complex than previously understood. This unique feature not only provides insights into tectonic processes but also plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystems surrounding it, influencing ocean currents and the distribution of marine species.