Sunlight, the lifeblood of the ocean’s surface, penetrates only to a certain depth—around 650 feet—beyond which the marine world plunges into perpetual darkness. This “euphotic” zone, bathed in just enough light to support the vibrant ecosystems we’re familiar with, is where the majority of marine life thrives, from the tiniest plankton to the largest whales.
As such, the upcoming eclipse could provide valuable observations that help scientists understand if and how light influences dolphin behavior and navigation in ways previously unconsidered.Zooplankton, the drifting, often microscopic organisms that serve as a crucial food source for many marine species, exhibit fascinating behaviors in response to changes in light.
The sudden darkness brought on by a solar eclipse could disrupt this ingrained rhythm, potentially prompting zooplankton to initiate their nighttime ascent during the day. Many species of zooplankton are, which means they can produce light through chemical reactions within their bodies. This ability is often used as a defense mechanism to startle predators or to communicate with potential mates.
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Deep-sea expedition captures stunning images of creatures in Pacific mining zoneEditor&8217;s note: Call to Earth is a CNN editorial series committed to reporting on the environmental challenges facing our planet, together with the solutions. Rolex’s Perpetual Planet initiative has partnered with CNN to drive awareness and education around key sustainability issues and to inspire positive action.
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