abyssal plains

Abyssal plains are vast, flat areas on the ocean floor, typically found between underwater mountain ranges and deep-sea trenches. They are some of the planet's most level landscapes, created by the accumulation of sediments like mud and tiny organisms over millions of years. These plains usually lie at depths of 3,000 to 6,000 meters (around 10,000 to 20,000 feet) below sea level. Despite the deep-sea environment, they host unique ecosystems, featuring organisms that have adapted to high pressure and cold temperatures. Abyssal plains cover about 50% of the Earth's ocean floors, playing a significant role in global oceanic processes.