What is the Difference Between Photic and Aphotic Zone?

The photic and aphotic zones are two vertical zones in the ocean categorized based on the presence and absence of light. The main differences between these zones are:

• Light penetration: The photic zone receives sunlight and is located at the surface of the ocean, extending up to 200 meters deep. In contrast, the aphotic zone does not receive sunlight and extends from 200 meters to the bottom of the ocean.
• Photosynthesis: The photic zone allows photosynthesis, making it suitable for photosynthetic organisms. On the other hand, the aphotic zone prevents photosynthesis due to the lack of light.
• Biodiversity: The photic zone is rich in biodiversity, with a high diversity of organisms compared to the aphotic zone.

In summary, the photic zone is the part of the ocean that receives sunlight and supports photosynthesis, while the aphotic zone is the portion of the ocean that does not receive sunlight and lacks photosynthetic organisms.

Comparative Table: Photic vs Aphotic Zone

Here is a table comparing the differences between the photic and aphotic zones:

The photic zone is the uppermost zone of the ocean that receives sunlight, extending from the ocean surface to 200 meters deep. This zone supports photosynthetic organisms and has a high diversity of organisms due to the presence of sunlight. On the other hand, the aphotic zone does not receive sunlight, extending from 200 meters deep to the bottom of the ocean. This zone lacks photosynthetic organisms and has a low diversity of organisms due to the absence of sunlight and the lower temperature and higher water pressure compared to the photic zone.