Sisämerialtaita

Sisämerialtaita, known in English as inland seas or epicontinental seas, are large bodies of saline water that are located within continental landmasses. These bodies of water are distinct from oceans and are often remnants of much larger ancient seas that have since receded or been cut off by geological processes. They are characterized by their relatively shallow depths compared to the open ocean and often have limited exchange of water with the main ocean bodies.

The formation of inland seas can be attributed to several geological factors. They can be formed by the uplift of landmasses that isolate parts of a former ocean, or by the continued subsidence of continental crust that allows water to inundate low-lying areas. In some cases, they are the result of glacial retreat, where meltwater fills depressions left behind by receding ice sheets. The salinity of these waters can vary significantly, depending on factors such as evaporation rates, freshwater inflow, and the degree of connection to the ocean.

Notable examples of inland seas include the Caspian Sea, the Aral Sea (though greatly diminished), the Black Sea, and the Baltic Sea. These bodies of water often support unique ecosystems adapted to their specific environmental conditions. They can also play important roles in regional climate regulation, transportation, and resource extraction, such as fisheries and hydrocarbon reserves. The study of inland seas provides valuable insights into paleogeography, climate change, and the dynamics of continental water systems.