A new study reveals that 99.999% of the deep ocean – defined as depths beyond 200 metres – remains unexplored and mysterious.
Despite over 44,000 dives since 1958, scientists have only visually observed an area equivalent to one-tenth the size of Belgium.
The deep ocean, which makes up two-thirds of Earth’s surface, contains bizarre creatures like Bigfin squid and flying spaghetti monsters that thrive in darkness and extreme pressure.
Researchers stress the urgent need for better technology and data sharing to uncover the secrets of this vast underwater world.