Definition

Describing the part of the ocean that is between 180 and 900 meters deep, where certain types of sea creatures live.

Example

Many unique species can be found in the mesopelagic zone of the ocean.

Conversation

Did you know that some fish live in mesopelagic zones of the ocean?

Really? I had no idea there were different layers like that.

Yeah, the mesopelagic layer is between 600 and 3,000 feet deep.

That's fascinating! I wonder what kind of creatures live down there.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mesopelagic → It is formed from "meso-" (from Greek "mesos", meaning middle) and "pelagic" (from Greek "pelagikos", meaning of the sea). The word "mesopelagic" refers to the middle layer of the ocean, specifically between the surface and the deep sea.

Memory Tip

Think of 'middle' ('meso-') and 'of the sea' ('pelagic') to remember that mesopelagic describes the ocean's middle layer.

Visually Confused Words