1) Term denoting the lower section of a surface or bottom dwelling. The largest part of all biological life are benthic organisms in the greater part of the atmosphere.
source: [Biology; Campbell, Niel; 1069; 1990; Benjamin Cummings; Redwood City.] [The Chemistry of the Atmosphere and Oceans; Holland, Heinrich; 224; 1978; Wiley Interscience, NY.]