Why is the Dead Sea called “dead”?

The Dead Sea is called “dead” because its high salinity—about 10 times saltier than most oceans—creates conditions that make it nearly impossible for most aquatic life to survive. The salinity is caused by the lack of outlets; water flows in from the Jordan River but evaporates quickly due to the region’s hot climate, leaving behind concentrated salts. While fish and other organisms cannot live in its waters, certain salt-tolerant microorganisms and algae can survive. The mineral-rich mud and water from the Dead Sea are also prized for their therapeutic properties.