Australian Seafloor Geomorphology Mapping with 6702 Features

Geoscience Australia Data systematically mapped 6702 individual geomorphic features across 48.9 million km² of the Australian margin and adjacent seafloor. The mapping identified 21 feature types using a 250 m resolution bathymetry model, with reefs being the most numerous type due to the Great Barrier Reef. Shelf, slope, and abyssal plain/deep ocean floor areas were quantified, revealing the margin's complexity and its global representation.

Use Cases

• Analyze the distribution of 21 geomorphic feature types, such as reefs, plateaus, and basins, across the 48.9 million km² mapped area for habitat inference.
• Compare regional geomorphic assemblages, like marginal plateaus and terraces, to define the 10 proposed geomorphic regions for broad-scale seafloor classification.
• Quantify the surface area coverage of specific features, such as plateaus covering 1.49 million km² or reefs totaling 47,900 km², for global comparative studies.
• Model seafloor complexity using the presence of diagnostic features like trench/troughs and submarine canyons within the mapped margin.

Strengths

• Extensive spatial coverage of 48.9 million km² including the Australian mainland and island territories.
• Detailed classification into 21 distinct geomorphic feature types.
• High-resolution source data from a 250 m spatial resolution bathymetry model.
• Quantified total of 6702 individually mapped geomorphic features.

Limitations

• Data format is HTML, which is not a standard structured data format for analysis.
• Specific tabular data structure, column definitions, and sample records are unavailable.
• The description is based on a scientific publication; raw underlying spatial data files may not be directly accessible.

Provenance

Source

Geoscience Australia Data

Collection Method

Systematic mapping using a 250 m spatial resolution bathymetry model and supporting literature.

Time Range

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Freshness

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Geography

Seafloor surrounding the Australian mainland and the island territories of Christmas, Cocos (Keeling), Macquarie, and Norfolk Islands.