A two-part seabed geomorphology classification scheme, Version 2.0. Part 1: Morphology features glossary.

Abstract

This report updates the ‘Two-part Seabed Geomorphology classification scheme’ of Dove et al. (2016) and presents a new glossary (Part 1) of Seabed Morphology features. This Morphology glossary is intended to provide marine scientists with a robust and consistent way to characterise the seabed. Each glossary entry includes a feature definition and a representative schematic diagram to support clear and accurate classification. Feature terms and definitions are primarily drawn from the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) guide for undersea feature names, which are herein modified and augmented with additional terms to ensure the final feature catalogue and glossary encompasses the diversity of morphologies observed at the seabed, while also minimising duplication and/or ambiguity. This updated classification system and new glossary are the result of a collaboration between marine geoscientists from marine mapping programmes/networks in Norway (MAREANO), Ireland (INFOMAR), UK (MAREMAP), and Australia (Geoscience Australia) (MIM-GA). A subsequent report will present the (Part 2) Geomorphology feature glossary.