Question

Explain the main zones of vertical distribution of organisms that characterize in the
Ocean depths and what is the main factor that influences their formation.

Answer 1

1. Epipelagic Zone (Sunlight Zone)

It is the surface layer or the sunlight zone of the ocean ranging from the surface to 656 feet. There is plenty of light and heat within this layer although both decrease as the depth increase. The coral reefs can be found in the layer and the photosynthesis process occurs here.

2.  Mesopelagic Zone (Twilight Zone)

The Mesopelagic zone lies between 656 feet and 3,281 feet. The zone is home to some of the strangest sea animals like the swordfish and the wolf eel. Faint sun rays penetrate the layer.

3. Bathypelagic Zone (Midnight Zone)

This layer is also called the midnight or the dark zone. Although the Bathypelagic zone is dark, visible light may be observed from sea creatures found here. The huge number of different sea species are found in the layer. Many animals in this layer are either black or red because of low sunlight penetration. Some whale species, like the sperm whale, spend some time at this level in search of food.

4. Abyssopelagic Zone (Abyss)

temperatures are near the freezing point, and there is no penetration of natural light.  The pressure is also high due to the weight of the water above. Invertebrates like sea stars and squids can survive in this environment. Over 75% of the ocean floor lies can be found within this zone with the continental rise starting here.

5. Hadalpelagic Zone (The Trenches)

The zone cannot be explored without specialized kits due to its cold temperatures and high pressure. Natural light cannot penetrate to the Trenches. Different creatures can be found in this layer, mostly invertebrates including starfish.