Legal Definitions - fauces terrae

Fauces terrae refers to a body of water that is partially enclosed by land and is subject to the regular rise and fall of ocean tides. It describes aquatic areas where the surrounding land creates a natural constriction or enclosure, yet the water within remains connected to and influenced by tidal movements.

• Example 1: A major river estuary where it meets the ocean.

  Consider the lower reaches of the Thames River in England, particularly the wide section where it approaches the North Sea. This area is bordered by extensive land on both sides, forming a distinct channel.

  This section of the Thames qualifies as fauces terrae because it is a significant body of water clearly defined and partially enclosed by the landmasses of its banks, and it experiences strong tidal currents and changes in water level as the North Sea's tides push water upstream and then recede.

• Example 2: A sheltered marina basin within a larger harbor.

  Imagine a marina designed for recreational boats, situated deep within a natural harbor. This basin is almost entirely surrounded by docks and land, with only a relatively narrow entrance connecting it to the main harbor channel.

  This marina basin is an example of fauces terrae. It is a body of water largely enclosed by land and man-made structures, and despite its sheltered position, it still experiences the tidal fluctuations that affect the broader harbor, causing the water level for the docked boats to rise and fall.

• Example 3: A narrow strait connecting two larger seas.

  Consider the Strait of Gibraltar, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. This body of water is bordered by Spain to the north and Morocco to the south, creating a distinct, relatively narrow passage.

  The Strait of Gibraltar exemplifies fauces terrae because it is a body of water significantly constrained and defined by the landmasses on either side, and it is profoundly influenced by the tidal movements of the Atlantic Ocean, which propagate into and through the strait.