The continental shelf is a submerged area of land that extends from the coastline of a continent to the deeper parts of the ocean. This region is relatively shallow compared to the ocean floor and is rich in marine life, making it an important habitat for various species. The continental shelf is also significant for human activities, such as fishing and oil drilling, as it contains valuable resources. The depth of the continental shelf usually ranges from 0 to about 200 meters. It gradually slopes down to the continental slope, where the ocean floor drops steeply. Understanding the continental shelf is crucial for environmental conservation and managing resources like fisheries and oil reserves.