What is another word for the deep sea?
Pronunciation: [ðə dˈiːp sˈiː] (IPA) 
The deep sea refers to the vast, mysterious and largely unexplored area of the world's oceans that lies beyond the continental shelf. Synonyms for this term include the abyss, the ocean depths, the midnight zone and the abyssal plain. These regions of the ocean are characterized by extreme darkness, cold temperatures, and immense pressure, making them inhospitable to most forms of life. Only a few specialized creatures have adapted to thrive in these hostile conditions, including giant squid, anglerfish, and deep-sea octopuses. Despite its largely uncharted territory, the deep sea is vital to the health of the planet, as it holds vast reservoirs of carbon, nutrients and minerals that sustain oceanic ecosystems and help regulate the Earth's climate.
