A submarine canyon is a deep, steep-sided valley that is found on the ocean floor. These canyons are often formed by the erosion caused by underwater currents, sediment flow, and the movement of tectonic plates. They can be several kilometers deep and may extend for hundreds of kilometers along the continental shelf. Submarine canyons are important for marine ecosystems as they provide habitats for various species of fish and other marine life. They also play a role in the geological processes of the ocean, influencing sediment transport and the distribution of nutrients. Examples of well-known submarine canyons include the Monterey Canyon in California and the Nassau Canyon in the Atlantic Ocean.