Category: Geography > Isthmus
One of the most intriguing geographic features in the world is the Isthmus of Panama, a narrow strip of land that connects North America and South America. This isthmus is not only significant for its role in linking two major continents, but it also plays a crucial part in global trade and ecology. The Panama Canal, which cuts through this isthmus, allows ships to travel between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans without the lengthy and perilous journey around the southern tip of South America. Geologically, the isthmus was formed about 3 million years ago, leading to the Great American Interchange—a period when animals migrated between the two continents, resulting in dramatic shifts in biodiversity. This unique geographic feature has had profound impacts on both the environment and human activity, making it a key area of interest for geographers and ecologists alike.