Gulf

A gulf is a part of a sea or ocean that extends into the land and is partly enclosed by the surrounding coast. It is generally larger than a bay, although there is no universal scientific boundary between the two terms. Gulfs can form through different geological processes.

Some develop when movements of Earth’s crust create depressions later flooded by the sea; others are shaped by erosion, changes in sea level, or the evolution of coastlines. A gulf may be broad and open toward the ocean, or bordered by long stretches of land. It may also contain bays, islands, straits, or coastal lagoons.

Gulfs influence coastal environments and human activities. Because they are partly sheltered from the open ocean, their waters may have different currents, temperatures, salinity, and wave conditions from nearby marine areas. These conditions can support coastal ecosystems with fish, shellfish, seagrass, and other organisms.

Many gulfs also provide suitable locations for ports, fishing, maritime transport, and coastal settlements. Some have a wide connection with the ocean, while others communicate through a relatively narrow strait. Well-known examples include the Gulf of Mexico, the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Guinea, and the Gulf of California. Their form is influenced by geology, sea level, and the long-term evolution of the coastline.