1. of, relating to, or living in the upper layer of the ocean that receives sunlight and extends to a depth of about 200 meters
Usage: technical; marine biology

Examples

• Epipelagic waters are home to most of the ocean's visible marine life.
• Coral reefs thrive in the epipelagic zone where sunlight penetrates the water.
• Fish in the epipelagic region must adapt to changing light conditions throughout the day.
• The epipelagic layer supports the greatest biodiversity of any ocean zone.
• Phytoplankton in epipelagic waters form the base of most marine food chains.