Two-Part Seabed Geomorphology Classification Scheme: Morphology Features Glossary

A two-part seabed geomorphology classification scheme; Part 1: Morphology features glossary (Version 2) updates a 2016 system and provides a new glossary for characterizing the seabed. The glossary entries include feature definitions and schematic diagrams to support clear classification, drawing from and modifying the IHO guide for undersea feature names. It results from collaboration between marine geoscientists from mapping programs in Norway, Ireland, the UK, and Australia.

Use Cases

• Classify seabed morphology based on standardized feature definitions.
• Support marine mapping programs by providing a consistent terminology reference.
• Train machine learning models for automated seabed feature identification based on the glossary's morphological categories.
• Reduce ambiguity in seabed characterisation reports by using the provided glossary.

Strengths

• Glossary entries include representative schematic diagrams.
• Feature terms are drawn from the authoritative IHO guide and modified by an international collaboration.
• The classification scheme is intended to minimise duplication and ambiguity.

Limitations

• Description metadata is limited; actual data quality requires manual inspection after download.
• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.

Provenance

Source

Collaboration between marine geoscientists from MAREANO (Norway), INFOMAR (Ireland), MAREMAP (UK), and Geoscience Australia (MIM-GA).

Collection Method

Compilation and modification of terms from the IHO guide for undersea feature names.

Freshness

Last updated 2026-06-04 08:17:59.481112; freshness should be verified.