There are five recognized oceans on Earth:

• Pacific Ocean
• Atlantic Ocean
• Indian Ocean
• Arctic Ocean
• Southern Ocean (also called the Antarctic Ocean)

Historically, only four oceans were named-the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, and Arctic. However, most countries, including the United States, now recognize the Southern Ocean as the fifth ocean. It surrounds Antarctica and extends north to the latitude of 60 degrees South. This designation reflects evolving scientific and geographic understanding, though some international bodies have not fully ratified its boundaries

. All five oceans are interconnected, forming one global ocean that covers about 71% of Earth's surface, but they are distinguished by geographic, climatic, and ecological differences