The Abyssal Zone

The Abyssal Zone is a deep part of the ocean, typically between 13,000 and 20,000 feet below the surface. It is characterized by complete darkness, near-freezing temperatures, and immense pressure. Despite these harsh conditions, it hosts specialized organisms like certain worms, invertebrates, and bacteria adapted to survive without sunlight, relying on chemicals or organic matter that sink from above. The zone is a significant part of Earth's ecosystem, playing a role in nutrient cycling and supporting unique forms of life in one of the planet's least explored frontiers.