The open ocean, also known as the pelagic zone, refers to the vast body of saltwater that lies beyond the coastal areas and continental shelves. It covers about 70% of the Earth's surface and is characterized by deep waters that are generally free from land influence. This zone is home to a diverse range of marine life, including fish, whales, and plankton, which thrive in its expansive environment. In the open ocean, sunlight penetrates only to a certain depth, affecting the types of organisms that can live there. The upper layer, known as the epipelagic zone, supports most marine life due to the availability of light for photosynthesis. Below this layer, the water becomes darker and colder, leading to different ecosystems and species adapted to these conditions.