Abyssal zone
Abyssal Zone
The Abyssal Zone (pronounced: /əˈbɪsəl zoʊn/) is a layer of the ocean that lies between 3,000 and 6,000 meters (9,800 and 19,700 feet) below the surface. It is one of the most mysterious and least explored regions on Earth.
Etymology
The term "Abyssal Zone" comes from the Greek word "abyssos," meaning "bottomless." Despite this, the Abyssal Zone does have a bottom, but it is so deep that it was thought to be bottomless by early oceanographers.
Description
The Abyssal Zone is characterized by its extreme conditions. The pressure is immense, the temperatures are near freezing, and there is no natural light. Despite these harsh conditions, a variety of organisms have adapted to live in this environment. These include certain species of fish, squid, and crustaceans, as well as many types of microorganisms.
Related Terms
- Bathyal Zone: The layer of the ocean above the Abyssal Zone, between 200 and 3,000 meters (660 and 9,800 feet) below the surface.
- Hadal Zone: The deepest part of the ocean, below the Abyssal Zone, starting at around 6,000 meters (20,000 feet).
- Benthic Zone: The bottom layer of the ocean, which includes the Abyssal Zone and the Hadal Zone.
- Pelagic Zone: The open ocean, away from the coast and the ocean floor.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Abyssal zone
- Wikipedia's article - Abyssal zone
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