Arafura Marine Park Bathymetry Survey Data from November 2020

A 6-meter resolution bathymetry dataset for the Arafura Marine Park, collected by Geoscience Australia and the Australian Institute of Marine Science from 2 to 15 November 2020. The survey provides baseline information for benthic habitats, supporting a 10-year management plan for the North Marine Park Network. Data acquisition included multibeam bathymetry and backscatter for Money Shoal and Pillar Bank, seabed samples, and underwater imagery.

Use Cases

• Map seabed topography based on the 6-meter resolution bathymetry grid.
• Analyze benthic habitat distribution based on seabed samples and underwater imagery.
• Support environmental monitoring programs based on baseline data for the 10-year management plan.
• Model marine park management scenarios based on integrated bathymetry and biological survey data.

Strengths

• Data collected during a dedicated 14-day survey in November 2020.
• Includes a 6-meter resolution bathymetry grid, seabed samples, and underwater imagery.
• Funded and produced by national scientific institutions (Geoscience Australia, AIMS).

Limitations

• Column-level documentation is absent; field semantics must be inferred after download.
• Row count is unknown, which may limit suitability assessment.
• Data may reflect geographic bias inherent to the two specific survey areas (Money Shoal and Pillar Bank).

Provenance

Source

Geoscience Australia and the Australian Institute of Marine Science

Collection Method

Survey on RV Solander using an EM2040C Dual Head multibeam system, processed with CARIS HIPS and SIPS software.

Time Range

2 – 15 November 2020

Freshness

Last updated 2026-05-05 04:22:23.415334; freshness should be verified.

Geography

Arafura Marine Park (Arafura Sea), specifically Money Shoal and Pillar Bank