1. Relating to or denoting the region of the ocean or a lake that receives no sunlight; characterized by the absence of light.
Usage: scientific; commonly used in marine biology and oceanography

Examples

• The aphotic zone of the ocean begins at depths where sunlight cannot penetrate.
• Many strange creatures live in the aphotic depths of the sea.
• Scientists study aphotic environments to understand deep-sea ecosystems.
• The aphotic region of a lake supports a unique community of organisms.
• Without sunlight, the aphotic zone relies on chemosynthesis and organic matter from above.