euphotic zone
Quick Summary
The euphotic zone is the uppermost layer of the ocean that receives sufficient sunlight for photosynthesis to occur. This vital surface layer, extending about 80 meters (260 feet) deep, is where phytoplankton and plants thrive, forming the base of many marine food webs. The depth of the euphotic zone can vary based on factors like season, latitude, and water clarity. Below this lies the disphotic zone, where light is insufficient for photosynthesis, and further down is the aphotic zone, a region of perpetual darkness. The availability of light is a primary factor in determining marine habitats and the distribution of life within the ocean.12
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