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ECOSYSTEMS > OPEN SEA

​Technically, this is known as the Epipelagic or Euphotic Zone, but Sunlit Zone is easier to remember and much more descriptive. Sunlight can penetrate the water up to approximately 656 feet (200 m), and with the light comes energy, warmth and growth. As a result, this is the open sea zone where most life exists.

Blue whales, the largest animals to ever live, cruise slowly through the Sunlit Zone, eating as much as 8,000 lbs (3,628 kg) of tiny krill per day. This is also where most fish live, hunted by pods of dolphins, soaring seabirds, and yes... bigger fish. Human beings use the Sunlit Zone extensively for both harvesting the ocean's bounty, recreation, exploration and for other natural resources. 

As you progress downward through the Sunlit Zone, colors start to fade. The water darkens to a deep blue and many of the lifeforms appear drab. As the visible light diminishes, so does our ability to perceive color. Once you pass into virtual darkness, you’re out of the Sunlit Zone and into the Twilight Zone.

Representative Species of the Sunlit Zone:

Bull kelp
Great white shark
Northern anchovy
Pelagic cormorant
By-the-wind-sailors
Green sea turtle
Northern elephant seal
Sargassum
Feather boa kelp
Harbor porpoise
Orca
Short-fin mako shark
Gray whale
Moon jelly
Pacific herring
Starry flounder

Suggested Activities for the Sunlit Zone:

Art
Fishing
SCUBA Diving
Citizen Science
Kayaking
Surfing
Climate Change Action
Photography and Video
Whale Watching
Conservation Projects
Sailing and Boating
Wildlife Spotting

Downloadable Items:

Ocean Zones
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The Oregon Coast Aquarium's Oceanscape Network is an educational program for youth designed to inspire curiosity in science, nature, conservation and outdoor exploration while providing valuable classroom resources for educators. MORE.
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