deep ocean

The deep ocean refers to the vast, dark depths of our oceans below the sunlit surface zones, generally starting around 200 meters (656 feet) deep. It is characterized by extreme pressures, near-freezing temperatures, and complete darkness. Despite these harsh conditions, it is home to a diverse range of unique organisms adapted to survive there, such as giant squids and bioluminescent creatures. The deep ocean plays a crucial role in Earth's climate, carbon storage, and supports an extraordinary, often hidden, ecosystem that remains largely unexplored.