Benthically

Benthically refers to phenomena or organisms associated with the benthic zone. The benthic zone is the ecological region at the lowest level of a body of water such as an ocean, lake, or river, including the sediment surface and some sub-surface layers. Organisms that live in this zone are called benthos. These organisms are often adapted to high pressure, low light, and limited food availability. Examples of benthic organisms include sea stars, crabs, oysters, and various types of worms and sea anemones. The benthic environment is diverse, ranging from shallow coastal waters to the deepest oceanic trenches. Factors such as substrate type, water depth, temperature, and salinity influence the types of organisms that can inhabit a particular benthic area. Studying benthically is crucial for understanding aquatic ecosystems, their biodiversity, and the impact of environmental changes.