A Guide to Common Abbreviations Used in the World's Oceans
As one of the largest and most mysterious parts of our planet, the world's oceans are home to a vast range of abbreviations and acronyms. In this guide, we will explore some of the most commonly used abbreviations in the context of oceanography, sailing and marine biology.
Sailing Abbreviations
Sailing enthusiasts and professionals use a wide range of abbreviations to communicate with one another. These abbreviations save time and make communication more efficient, especially during urgent situations. Some of the most commonly used sailing abbreviations include:
- AIS: Automatic Identification System
- Bf: Beaufort Wind Scale
- BSP: Boat Speed
- CtE: Course to Steer
- DSC: Digital Selective Calling
- EPIRB: Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
- GPS: Global Positioning System
- GRIB: Gridded Binary
- SOB: Souls on Board
- VHF: Very High Frequency Radio
Oceanography Abbreviations
Scientists and researchers who study the oceans use a range of abbreviations to describe their findings and methods. These abbreviations often represent complex concepts or measurements that are difficult to articulate in full. Some of the most commonly used oceanography abbreviations include:
- AO: Atlantic Oscillation
- CTD: Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth sensor
- CFC: Chlorofluorocarbon
- DSOW: Deep and bottom Water
- EASM: East Asian Summer Monsoon
- ENSO: El Niño Southern Oscillation
- GMF: Global Magnetic Field
- NPZ: Nutrient-Poor Zone
- OMZ: Oxygen Minimum Zone
- SMW: Submarine Mediteranean Water
Marine Biology Abbreviations
Marine biologists use a range of abbreviations to describe the creatures and environments they study. These abbreviations can save time and space when communicating about complex biological systems. Some of the most commonly used marine biology abbreviations include:
- BZ: Benthic Zone
- CC: Coral Cover
- CS: Chemosynthesis
- DDT: Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane
- FCR: Feed Conversion Ratio
- LME: Large Marine Ecosystems
- NPP: Net Primary Productivity
- OTU: Operational Taxonomic Unit
- PAR: Photosynthetically Active Radiation
- TS: Total Solids
By familiarizing yourself with these and other common abbreviations and acronyms, you will have a clearer understanding of the language used by sailors, oceanographers and marine biologists.
