Relating to the well-lit upper layer of aquatic environments where light is sufficient for photosynthesis to exceed respiration. This zone typically extends from the surface to where 1% of surface light remains.
From Greek 'eu-' meaning 'good' or 'well' and 'photos' meaning 'light.' The term was coined in mid-20th century oceanography to distinguish the most productive light zone from deeper, less illuminated waters.
Try Another Word