The Aphotic zone reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Apr-2004
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Aphotic zone

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The aphotic zone is the depth of the ocean that is not exposed to sunlight. The depth of the aphotic zone can be greatly affected by such things as turbidity and the season of the year. The aphotic zone generally underlies the photic zone, which is that portion of the ocean directly affected by sunlight.

See also: Pelagic zone