factors that allow orgnisms to survive in the abyssal plains

These vehicles are piloted remotely from ships to which they are tethered and collect water samples, organisms, video, and still photos of life in the depths. Research expeditions use remote-operated vehicles (ROVs) to explore the depths of the midnight zone. What are ocean scientists doing to better understand the midnight zone?

These include well developed visual systems, bioluminescence used both to lure prey and attract mates, and well-developed auditory systems that allow them to hear other animals moving nearby. Despite the extreme environment, organisms here must find food and mates and avoid predators, just as they do in any ecosystem, and they have special adaptations that allow them to do so. Pressure varies with depth, and in this zone it ranges from 100 to 400 atmospheres. Life that exists in this zone must be able to function in cold temperatures and withstand extreme hydrostatic pressure. In addition to the lack of light, the midnight zone is characterized by a steady temperature of around 4° Celsius (39° Fahrenheit). The resulting bathypelagic, or midnight, zone extends to about 4,000 meters (about 13,100 feet), which reaches the ocean floor in many places. By about 1,000 meters (about 3,300 feet) depth, even the faintest light has been extinguished, leaving these deep ocean waters in perpetual darkness. Red, orange, and yellow are absorbed quickly, leaving water a brilliant blue, but even these wavelengths disappear as light travels deeper. Sunlight is rapidly absorbed as it travels through water. Other Expeditions Highlighting WHOI Research.Expedition to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.How do polynyas help feed emperor penguins?.Why is pressure different in the ocean?.What’s the difference between climate and weather?.

Factors that allow orgnisms to survive in the abyssal plains