Pycnocline (density layer)

A pycnocline is a distinct layer in the ocean where water density changes very quickly. This happens because temperature or salinity shifts suddenly between two different water masses. You often encounter this in places like the Komodo Sea or near river mouths in Cebu. While you descend, you might feel a sudden tug on your buoyancy because the water becomes denser. Visibility can also drop significantly as particles get trapped at this specific boundary. Many divers struggle with depth readings since some older dive computers use pressure sensors that react strangely to these density shifts. Always check your buoyancy before you cross the layer so that you do not float upward too fast. Watch your air consumption too. Rapid changes in density often force you to work harder to maintain a steady depth.