ABSTRACT
Much of the ocean depths is unexplored and represents the most extreme environment on Earth. Extending to over 10 kilometres below the surface, the deep-sea is home to a range of uniquely adapted organisms that must overcome steep physical gradients, and these have profound effects on many of their homeostatic processes. Although logistically and financially difficult to explore and monitor, the health of the deep-sea is paramount to maintaining stable meteorological conditions, preserving this critical marine ecosystem and predicting the effects of future climate variability. There is a dire need to understand more about the physical and biological drivers of maintaining the health of the deep-sea, particularly given increased interest in achieving blue economy goals associated with wealth from the ocean.
