TED-Ed: Why is this 2,500 year old shipwreck so well-preserved? | Helen Farr and Jon Adams

A remotely operated vehicle discovered an ancient Greek shipwreck in the Black Sea, dating back to 350-410 BCE. The Black Sea's unique meromictic nature, with its oxygen-deprived lower layer, has preserved numerous shipwrecks from various eras, including Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. This environment prevents decomposition, allowing ships to remain intact for centuries. Recent discoveries include a medieval Italian merchant ship, highlighting the region's historical significance in trade. However, the fragile nature of these preserved ships poses challenges for researchers, as they cannot be brought to the surface intact.

What was the initial assumption about the ancient shipwreck discovered off the Bulgarian coast?

• It was a Byzantine ship.

• It was a Phoenician ship.

• It was a Roman ship.

• It was an Ottoman ship.

What unique feature of the Black Sea contributes to the preservation of shipwrecks?

• Its warm temperature

• Its meromictic nature

• Its high salinity

• Its shallow waters

Why are the shipwrecks in the Black Sea exceptionally well-preserved?

• Because of the high temperature of the water

• Due to the presence of oxygen in the water

• Because of the absence of marine organisms

• Due to the presence of anaerobic bacteria

What challenge do researchers face when trying to study the shipwrecks in the Black Sea?

• The shipwrecks are in a restricted area.

• The shipwrecks are covered in coral.

• The shipwrecks are too fragile to bring to the surface.

• The shipwrecks are too deep to reach.

What was significant about the medieval Italian merchant ship found in the Black Sea?

• It was the first ship found with intact sails.

• It was the largest ship ever discovered.

• It was the oldest ship ever found.

• It was a complete example of its kind.