So, the Dead Sea probably has a hint of gloom and doom about it, what with it being called “Dead”. Not very charming, some might say. But why is it really called the Dead Sea?
Well, the Dead Sea, Israel, is an incredible body of water which is incredibly salty. It has a saline level of between 28-35%. When compared to the saltiest of seas, which are something like 5-6%, you can see why it is called The Salt Sea in Hebrew (Yam HaMelach). The salt water and mineral-loaded mud that are so familiar to many visiting the Dead Sea may have some amazing health benefits for us humans, but for plants and fish entering the Dead Sea, it’s a quick death. Only the tiniest and hardiest of microbes can survive the harsh salinity levels of the Dead Sea.
Why is it so salty? Well, firstly, because it’s landlocked, any fresh water that arrives via the Jordan River and its other tributaries (estimated at well over six million tons per day) is trapped until finally evaporating, largely due to the very hot conditions of the area. [Oh yes, it does get hot, especially during the summer months.] Once evaporated, salty minerals are left behind, adding to the already vast salt deposits. Apart from the salt, there are a variety of minerals that are also found in the Dead Sea, including potassium, bromine, calcium, magnesium and iodine.
Some environmentalists have also raised awareness recently into the state of the Dead Sea. Due to some over eager business interests that have basically raped the Dead Sea of its salt 
and mineral deposits, there are genuine fears that the Dead Sea is actually dying. With its nomination as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the world, there are hopes that this issue can be brought to the Israeli public’s – and the world’s – attention.
Not quite dead, but if we’re not careful the Dead Sea could be fast disappearing…
[...] Is the Dead Sea actually dead?! [...]