Geomorphic Classification and Mapping of the Perth Submarine Canyon

2015 and 2005 data collection efforts provide a 20 m resolution geomorphic map of the Perth submarine canyon, covering an area greater than 1500 km2. Geoscience Australia applied a new genetic classification system to high-resolution bathymetry, backscatter, sub-bottom, and sediment sample data. This work was presented at the 2017 American Geophysical Union Fall Meeting.

Use Cases

• Classify seafloor sub-features using the nested genetic classification scheme and descriptors from Bradwell et al. (2016).
• Map potential benthic habitats by analyzing spatial patterns from geomorphic features, bathymetry, and backscatter data.
• Analyze canyon form and process using topographic metrics, fluvial dis/connection status, and shelf-incising status.
• Validate the global seafloor mapping framework (Harris et al., 2014) within a specific, ecologically significant Marine Protected Area.

Strengths

• Applies a novel, multi-source genetic classification framework nested within a global seafloor mapping standard.
• Covers a large area (>1500 km2) from 170 m to 4700 m water depth within an ecologically significant Marine Protected Area.
• Integrates multiple data types: 20 m resolution bathymetry and backscatter (2015) with sub-bottom profiles and sediment samples (2005).

Limitations

• Specific row counts, column names, and dataset size are unknown, limiting reproducibility for quantitative analysis.
• Primary data collection occurred in 2005 and 2015, which may not reflect current seafloor conditions.
• The dataset appears focused on a single canyon system, limiting geographic generalizability.

Provenance

Source

Geoscience Australia and Schmidt Ocean Institute, presented via the Australian Ocean Data Network.

Collection Method

Semi-automated geomorphic mapping applied to multibeam echo-sounder bathymetry, acoustic backscatter, sub-bottom profiling, and sediment samples.

Time Range

2005, 2015

Freshness

null

Geography

Perth submarine canyon, continental slope and shelf of southwest Australia.