Lord Howe Rise Benthic Habitat Surveys from 2003 and 2007

Australian Ocean Data Network presents results from two major marine surveys on the Lord Howe Rise submarine plateau in 2003 and 2007. The dataset includes benthic biological and geological samples, underwater photographs, video, and multibeam sonar bathymetry data. It focuses on hard/rocky substrates covering volcanic peaks and seamounts, supporting epifaunal assemblages.

Use Cases

• Classify benthic habitat types using underwater photographs and video to distinguish hard/rocky substrates from other seabed features.
• Analyze species distribution and abundance from biological samples to identify epifaunal assemblages dominated by suspension feeders.
• Model seafloor topography and geological features using multibeam sonar bathymetry data for geomorphological studies.
• Assess habitat vulnerability and significance by applying UN CBD scientific criteria to the collected biological and geological data.

Strengths

• Data originates from two dedicated marine surveys in 2003 and 2007, providing focused temporal snapshots.
• Multimodal collection includes biological samples, geological samples, photographs, video, and bathymetry for cross-validation.
• Covers a region within Australia's EEZ containing 1.6 million km² of submarine plateaus, a globally significant area.

Limitations

• Sample size and spatial extent of specific habitats like volcanic peaks are limited, covering approximately 31 km².
• Data is temporally static from two past surveys, lacking continuous or recent monitoring.
• Row counts, file sizes, and specific column structures for quantitative analysis are unknown.

Provenance

Source

Australian Ocean Data Network

Collection Method

Marine surveys collecting benthic samples, underwater imagery, video, and multibeam sonar data.

Time Range

2003, 2007

Freshness

null

Geography

Lord Howe Rise submarine plateau within Australia's exclusive economic zone.