Oceans: The Abyss

Film info

Film summary

In the ocean abyss – the deepest of all aquatic ecosystems – life is rare. But a few well-adapted creatures do survive in the most inhospitable habitat on Earth.

Key facts

• The abyssopelagic zone (or the abyss) begins 4000m below sea level and is the most inhospitable habitat of the planet.
• Animal life is rare in the abyss, but through adaptation and scavenging whole ecosystems are able to survive.
• The mid-ocean ranges are the largest mountain range on Earth – found far beneath the sea in the zone called the abyss.
• A series of colossal trenches exist under the ocean, the largest of these is the Mariana Trench at 11km deep.