In what part of the oceans do most of the sea vegetation and saltwater fishes and animals exist?

The continental shelves are the regions of the ocean that are closest to the shore, and they are characterized by relatively shallow waters. These areas are crucial for marine life because they receive ample sunlight, which is necessary for photosynthesis, allowing sea vegetation, such as algae and seagrasses, to thrive. This vegetation, in turn, serves as a primary food source for many saltwater fish and animals, establishing a rich ecosystem that supports diverse marine species.

In contrast, the deep ocean floor is less conducive to life due to the extreme conditions such as darkness, high pressure, and cold temperatures. These environments contain fewer plants and animals primarily because photosynthesis cannot occur without sunlight. Similarly, while the continental slopes and the open ocean can support some life, particularly at depths where nutrients may be more abundant, they do not have the same productivity levels as the continental shelves. Thus, this makes the continental shelves the most significant habitats for sea vegetation and a multitude of marine organisms.