aphotic

[ ey-foh-tik ]

adjective

1. lightless; dark.

aphotic

/ əˈfɒtɪk /

adjective

1. characterized by or growing in the absence of light

   an aphotic plant

2. of or relating to the zone of an ocean below that to which sunlight can penetrate, usually about 90m (300 ft). This is the lowest level at which photosynthesis can take place

aphotic

/ ā-fō′tĭk /

1. Having no light.
2. Relating to the region of a body of water that is not reached by sunlight and in which photosynthesis is unable to occur.
3. Compare photic

Word History and Origins

Origin of aphotic¹

First recorded in 1900–05; a- ⁶ + photic

Word History and Origins

Origin of aphotic¹

C20: from a- ¹+ -photic, from Greek phōs light

Example Sentences

At roughly 3,300 feet below the surface — about 2,000 feet above the sunken ship’s location — even the faintest light has faded, leaving a sunless realm known as the aphotic zone.

From New York Times

The depth is known as the aphotic zone — a part of the ocean where there is little-to-no sunlight, and where there is less marine life than layers above, she said.

From Los Angeles Times

The dark aphotic zone is home to plankton and other organisms that could potentially get trapped in filters or experience long-term effects from the brine.

From Los Angeles Times

“But I think all in all, they’re getting some net benefits by being deep and out in that aphotic zone,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• black
• cloudy
• darkened
• dim
• dingy
• drab
• dull
• foggy
• gloomy
• misty
• murky
• overcast
• shadowy
• somber