Bathymetry: Carnarvon Shelf survey, Western Australia (CERF Marine Biodiversity Hub Survey)

High resolution multibeam sonar mapping occurred during the CERF Carnarvon Shelf Survey.

The survey was a collaboration between the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and Geoscience Australia (GA) aboard RV Solander, as part of the CERF Marine Biodiversity Hub's Surrogates Program.

The purpose of the survey was to collect high-quality, accurately co-located data test a range of physical parameters for relationships to the biodiversity and seabed patterns across the offshore Carnarvon shelf, adjacent to Ningaloo. Estimates of relative importance of latitude, distance offshore, water depth, physical setting, exposure and local habitat complexity were explored in relation to biodiversity patterns in the region.

Areas mapped include Mandu Creek (80 km2), Point Cleats (218km2) and Gnaraloo (321 km2). The seabed between the outer continental shelf and the outer edge of Ningaloo reef was covered. Bathymetric profiles of inner shelf, mid shelf and outer shelf areas for each locations characterised the seabed, and provided detailed measurements of seabed depth (m), shelf width (km), average gradient (O) and relief (m).

An additional area was mapped north of the Muiron Islands in the outher Exmouth Gulf region.

Other parties were involved in the collection of the data, and additional permission may be required for its use and/or distribution.