epipelagic zone

The region of an ocean extending from the surface to a depth of about 600 feet (200 meters); light penetrates this zone, allowing photosynthesis.

Related terms:

• epipelagic
• archibenthic zone
• sublittoral zone
• hemipelagic region
• transition zone
• neritic
• inshore zone
• Benioff zone
• equatorial dry zone
• plastic zone