The deep sea is a vast ecosystem.
It is the largest habitat on Earth.
More than two-thirds of the
planet is covered
with water more
than one mile
(1.6 km) deep. The deepest point of
the ocean is 6.8 miles (11 km) from
the surface.
The deep sea is a cold and dark
place. Most of the water is
approximately 35 degrees
Fahrenheit (1.7ºC). But the
temperature can dip as low
as 28 degrees Fahrenheit
(–2.2ºC). Water normally
starts to freeze by this point,
DO NOT DISTURB
Scientists often collect animals
to study. But it is not easy to
collect animals from the deep
sea. Many deep-sea life-forms
die on their way to the ocean’s
surface. This is due to changes
in pressure and temperature
as they rise up through the
water. For this reason, marine
biologists must observe
deep-sea animals in their
natural habitats.
The Deep Sea Is a
Mysterious Place
Anglerfish have
adapted to live in
the deep sea.
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