What is the term for the area of the ocean beyond the edge of the continental shelf?

The area of the ocean beyond the edge of the continental shelf is referred to as the Open-Ocean Zone. This region extends from the continental slope into the vast, deep areas of the ocean. It is characterized by its depth, as it typically includes areas that are significantly deeper than the continental shelf, often reaching thousands of meters below the sea surface.

The Open-Ocean Zone is crucial because it encompasses the majority of the Earth's oceanic waters, covering a vast expanse that supports diverse ecosystems, including various species of fish, marine mammals, and phytoplankton that contribute to the ocean's productivity. Unlike coastal areas, which are influenced by river runoff and nutrient input from land, the open ocean is generally less productive, but it plays a significant role in global climate regulation and carbon cycling.

The other terms refer to different marine environments: the Intertidal Zone is the area between high and low tide that experiences fluctuations in exposure to air and water; the Neritic Zone lies over the continental shelf, where light penetration allows for photosynthesis and typically contains more nutrients; and an Estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers mixes with saltwater from the ocean, known for its rich biodiversity. Each of these regions has distinct characteristics and ecological