Photic vs Aphotic Zones

The critical boundary at approximately 200m where enough sunlight fails to support photosynthesis - marking the end of the productive layer.

Depth: 0-200m Light: Sunlight

📖 Overview

The photic zone extends from surface to about 200m. Below is the aphotic zone - lightless, unable to support primary production, dependent on organic matter drifting down from above. This boundary shapes global marine ecology.

🔗 Related Zones

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Oceanic Zone

The open ocean waters beyond the continental shelf - vast, low-productivity blue...

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Sargasso Sea (Gyre)

The only sea without land borders - the still centre of the North Atlantic Gyre,...