Zones of the Ocean

Front

What is the photic zone?

Back

The zone in the ocean layers with the warmest temperatures, warmed by sunlight, where most marine life exists.

Front

Where does most sea life live?

Back

In the photic zone.

Front

What characterizes the intertidal zone?

Back

It is on the coastline and has tides that rise and fall each day.

Front

Why are phytoplankton abundant in the ocean?

Back

They are buoyant and float in the upper part of the water, primarily in the photic zone.

Front

What is the oceanic zone?

Back

The open water area beyond the continental shelf.

Front

What is the twilight zone in the ocean?

Back

The zone below the photic zone where light begins to fade, supporting some life but less than the photic zone.

Front

What is the midnight zone?

Back

The deep ocean layer where no sunlight penetrates, characterized by complete darkness.

Front

What is the abyssal zone?

Back

The deepest part of the ocean, typically over 2000 meters deep, with high pressure and low temperatures.

Front

What role do phytoplankton play in the ocean ecosystem?

Back

They are primary producers, forming the base of the marine food web by converting sunlight into energy.

Front

What is the significance of the continental shelf?

Back

It is a submerged border of a continent, rich in nutrients and biodiversity, where many marine species thrive.