THE GREAT BLUE HOLE OF BELIZE

The Great Blue Hole is a large submarine sinkhole off the coast of Belize. The hole is circular in shape, over 300 m (984 ft) across and 124 m (407 ft) deep.

 It was formed during several episodes of quaternary glaciation when sea level were much lower. This formation took place 15,000 years ago. In 1997 it was designated as a World Heritage site.

 Stalactite were retrieved from submerged caves, confirming their previous formation above sea level.

 This is a popular spot amongst recreational scuba divers

HISTORY
For the explorers this was proof that at one time, nearly 65,000 years ago, when the world was in the grip of the last major ice age, the sea level of the Bahamas was up to 150 meters lower than it is today. Over time the limestone of the islands was eroded by water and vast cave networks created. When sea levels rose again about 10,000 years ago some of these collapsed inwards and the Blue Holes were formed.

 Divers have reported a vast number of aquatic creatures some of which are still new to science.

Malabar grouper

Hammerhead Shark

Bull Shark

Blacktip Shark

Caribbean reef shark

Nurse Shark

Map

Thank you