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Bathymetry & Benthic Habitats |
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What are Bathymetry and Benthic Habitat Characterization
For the CICORE program, bathymetry and benthic habitat characterization are the mapping of water depth and characteristic of the seafloor using acoustical techniques. |
Data Collection
Sound of different frequencies, generated at the sea surface, is bounced off the seafloor. The time required for the reflected sound to return to the surface is used to generate depth contour maps as well as digital elevation models (DEM). This high-resolution bathymetry data for the CICORE program are collected primarily with multibeam sonar. In addition, characteristics of the seafloor such as hardness, texture, slope and aspect alter the intensities of the reflected sound. Since marine benthic habitats are described, in part, by these geophysical features, monitoring the changes in intensities allows mosaic images of seafloor habitats to be generated at resolutions as fine as 20 cm using sidescan sonar and backscatter from of multibeam bathymetry. |
Post-Processing
Interpretation and verification of sidescan sonar, swath bathymetry, backscatter imagery, and seismic reflection profiles with direct observation and sampling of rock and biogenic fauna are critical in characterizing seafloor habitats.
Seafloor data are further visualized via advanced integrated geospatial tools to develop GIS-based species/habitat databases and spatial data models. Final products can include high resolution 3D digital terrain models draped with habitat raster imagery of nearshore marine environments for use in efficient, sustainable, and environmentally sound management of marine resources. |
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Additional Information |
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Technology |
Multibeam Sonar |
Sidescan Sonar |
Remotely Operated Vehicle |
On-Line CICORE Data |
The Seafloor Mapping Lab (SFML) Data Library includes remotely sensed images (high-resolution multibeam bathymetry and side scan sonar geotifs), derived data (bathymetric contours, grid analyses), habitat classification data, associated data sets (survey footprints, coastline, NOAA charts), and FGDC metadata for 30+ locations along the California coast. Data archived since 2000.
View
SFML Map Server
Download
SFML Data Library
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