Benthic Communities of the Gunn Point Peninsula, 2020
Updated: 2026-10-23
This polygon spatial dataset describes the benthic habitats likely to occur in marine environments around Gunn Point Peninsula and informs the desktop assessment of the marine biodiversity values for the region. The benthic habitats are inferred from existing information but in most cases require further data collection to validate and refine. Habitat modelling forms the basis of benthic community value assessment for Shoal Bay (Galaiduk et al. 2019). The accompanying report Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Assessment of the Gunn Point Area (2020) forms part of the Mapping the Future Project - Gunn Point. This project has identified land capability, water availability and biodiversity values to support land planning and inform development potential over the Gunn Point area. Reports and maps can be viewed from the webpage: denr.nt.gov.au/land-resource-management/development-opportunities - Development Potential of the Gunn Point Area (2020) - Biodiversity Assessment of the Gunn Point Area (2020) - Groundwater Resources of the Gunn Point Area (2020) - Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Assessment of the Gunn Point Area (2020) - Soil and Land Resources of the Gunn Point Area (2020) - Soil and Land Suitability Assessment for Irrigated Agriculture in the Gunn Point Area (2017) - Vegetation Communities of the Gunn Point Area (2020)
Data
- SeamapAus_NT_GunnPt_benthiccomm_2020
- SeamapAus_NT_GunnPt_benthiccomm_2020
- Original metadata record [NT Government catalogue]
- Full metadata link
- http://i.creativecommons.org/l/by/4.0/88x31.png
- http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
- {"title":"Seamap Australia National Benthic Habitat Layer (NBHL)","recordAbstract":"The Seamap Australia National Benthic Habitat Layer (NBHL) is a compilation of benthic habitat datasets obtained from various sectors including research, government, industry and community sources, across Australia. These disparate datasets have been integrated into a single national-scale benthic habitat database, and classified uniformly under a national classification scheme implemented as a controlled vocabulary (https://vocabs.ardc.edu.au/viewById/129). Creation of this classification scheme complements work undertaken by the National Environmental Science Program (NESP) Marine Biodiversity Hub (Theme D).\n\nFor acceptance into the Seamap Australia NBHL, source habitat datasets must meet a set of Acceptance Criteria (documented in https://seamapaustralia.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/SeamapAustraliaDataAcceptanceGuidelines.pdf). \n\nBroadly speaking, for inclusion in the Seamap Australia NBHL, datasets must:\n(1) be well-described by metadata or associated documentation;\n(2) employ a single, consistent classification scheme which avoids non-deterministic or ambiguous terms;\n(3) be quality-controlled by the provider prior to contribution;\n(4) beacquired using an established and community-endorsed form of data collection (eg satellite, aerial or acoustic remote sensing); and\n(5) have documented evidence of ground-truthing validation at the time of data collection (e.g. drop camera, towed video, benthic grabs).\n\nThe Seamap Australia NBHL can be viewed, analysed and downloaded from the Seamap Australia data portal (https://seamapaustralia.org/map) – a national repository of seafloor habitat data and a decision support tool for marine managers. All habitat datasets in the Seamap Australia data portal, including the NBHL and all local- to regional-scale contributing datasets, are available for download.\n\nThe Seamap Australia NBHL is a data collection of national importance and highlights the diversity of benthic habitats across Australia’s marine estate. This is the first Australian habitat dataset that seamlessly consolidates data from each of Australia’s state and territory providers. This dataset should be considered a “live” asset and will continue to develop as more suitable validated habitat data becomes available for inclusion, and improvements in data collection and analysis techniques enhance its resolution and currency.\n\nThe most current (2026) version of the data is available from the following endpoints:\nWMS: https://geoserver.imas.utas.edu.au/geoserver/seamap/wms\nWFS: https://geoserver.imas.utas.edu.au/geoserver/seamap/wfs\nLayer name: SeamapAus_National_Benthic_Habitat_Layer\n\nA download link for the full dataset is supplied in the 'Download and Links' section of this record, along with download links to older versions of the dataset. Note that data is now only available in Geodatabase (.gdb) format as it exceeds Shapefile size limits."}
- {"title":"WA Seagrass Synthesis 2013","recordAbstract":"This record describes data collected for the 2013 report \"Synthesis of seagrass mapping studies conducted by the Water Science Branch of the Department of Water\", and collected more recently by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation ongoing monitoring.\n\nThis project record provides linkage to each of metadata records describing seagrass data collected from the 11 study areas: Beaufort Inlet (2009), Hardy Inlet (2008), Irwin Inlet (2009), Leschenault Estuary (2009), Oyster Harbour (1988, 1996, 2006), Princess Royal Harbour (1996, 2006) Stokes Inlet (2009), Swan Canning (2011), Walpole Nornalup Inlets (2009), Wellstead Estuary (2009), Wilson Inlet (2007, 2008).\n\nAdditional monitoring data is available from the WA DWER seagrass group via https://data.wa.gov.au for the following study areas: Leschenault Estuary (2014-2023), Peel Harvey Estuary (2021), Hardy Inlet (2018, 2020, 2023), Wilson Inlet (2017-2022), Wilson Inlet (2017-2022), Oyster Harbour (2019, 2021), Princess Royal Harbour (2021).\n\nTo access the source datasets from the 2013 Synthesis for each study site/sampling occasion in their original (unaggregated) form, see child records linked to this parent record."}
- {"title":"Geomorphic Features 2006","recordAbstract":"The data set provides outlines for the maximum extent of geomorphic units for Australia's Exclusive Economic Zone, including the offshore island territories, but not the Australian Antarctic Territory. These data were compiled as part of Geoscience Australia's integrated digital information system to provide improved accessibility and knowledge relating to the environmental management of Australia's oceans resources. The geomorphic units are to be used as surrogates for benthic habitats and can be best applied to the construction of bioregionalisations of the seabed. The data set also includes the name of units in the attribute table, where known, the source(s) of the names, feature codes and province codes as well as the area and perimeter of each unit. The data are accompanied by Geoscience Australia Record 2003/30. Updated October 2006."}
- {"title":"Queensland wetland data v4 - wetland areas","recordAbstract":"This dataset provides mapping of water bodies and wetland regional ecosystems at 1:100,000 scale across Queensland."}
- {"title":"Seagrass meadows of Arnhem Land, Kakadu and Gulf of Carpentaria","recordAbstract":"This is a collection of polygons outlining signficant seagrass meadows around Arnhem Land, Kakadu and Gulf of Carpentaria coastal waters for the Northern Australia Marine Biodiversity Survey (NAMBS) project between 2003 and 2005. Data was collected from imagery and ground truthed by observers from helicopter and insitu sample grabs."}
- {"title":"Seagrass meadows extents derived from field to spaceborne earth observation at Midge Point, Great Barrier Reef, September/October 2017","recordAbstract":"Seagrass meadow extent and meadow-scape was mapped using three alternative approaches at Midge Point, a coastal turbid water habitat, in the central section of the Great Barrier Reef, in September/October 2017. Approach 1 included mapping meadow boundaries and meadow-scape during low spring tides on foot using a handheld Garmin GPS. Approach 2 was where the meadows were surveyed at low tide with observations from a helicopter, with observational spot-checks conducted at a number haphazardly scattered points. Approach 3 used PlanetScope Dove imagery captured on 09 October 2017 coinciding as close as possible to the field-surveys, with 3.7 m x 3.7 m pixels (nadir viewing) acquired from the PlanetScope archive.\n\nThis record describes meadow extent data collected using Approach 3 (PlanetScope imagery). View the original metadata record at https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.946606 for the full data collection."}
- {"title":"Satellite Mapping of Bathymetry and Habitats of Ashmore Reef and Cartier Island Marine Parks","recordAbstract":"Parks Australia - Our Marine Parks Grants Round 3 Project: Satellite Mapping of Bathymetry and Habitats of Ashmore and Cartier Island Marine Parks\n\nThis project aimed to map the satellite-derived bathymetry (SDB) and benthic habitats at 2m horizontal spatial resolution, for the shallow waters (~0-25 m) of the Ashmore Reef and Cartier Island Marine Parks. These critical geospatial data layers provide the essential environmental baseline information for the long-term monitoring and management of these Marine Parks. Mapping the shallow water zone is of importance both from an environmental and socioeconomic perspective. Having access to digital, georeferenced, high-resolution, satellite-derived maps of bathymetry and benthic habitats of shallow water areas, is of fundamental use in the areas of navigation, ecological research, environmental modelling, management and conservation, and monitoring the impacts from climate change."}
- {"title":"Spatial distribution and morphology of the Halimeda bioherms of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia","recordAbstract":"Sediment derived from the decomposition of Halimeda algae is a major contributor to the tropical back-reef carbonate depositions. Halimeda bioherms occur extensively on the northern Great Barrier Reef (GBR), Australia. This dataset represents the most complete, high-resolution spatial mapping of the extent of northern GBR Halimeda bioherms, based on airborne lidar and multibeam echosounder bathymetry data. Three distinct morphological sub-types are described: reticulate, annulate, and undulate. The northern GBR bioherms cover an area of 6095 km2, three times larger than previous estimates."}
- {"title":"Habitat map of seagrass cover derived from a supervised moderate-spatial-resolution multi-spectral satellite image, integrated with manual delineation and coincident field data, Moreton Bay, 2011","recordAbstract":"A supervised classification was applied to a Landsat TM5 image. This image was acquired 9:40 am, on the 27th July 2011 (5.14 am low tide at Brisbane Bar). The image classification was applied on areas of clear waters up to three metres depth and for exposed regions of Moreton Bay. Field validation data was collected at 4797 survey sites by UQ. GPS referenced field data were used as training areas for the image classification process. For this training the substrate DN signatures were extracted from the Landsat 5 TM image for field survey locations of known substrate cover, enabling a characteristic \"spectral reflectance signature\" to be defined for each target. The Landsat TM image, containing only those pixels in water < 3.0m deep, was then subject to minimum distance to means algorithm to group pixels with similar DN signatures (assumed to correspond to the different substrata). This process enabled each pixel to be assigned a label of either seagrass cover (0, 1-25 %, 25-50 %, 50-75 % and 75-100 %). The resulting raster data was then converted into a vector polygon file. Species information was added based on the field data and expert knowledge. Both polygon files were joined by overlaying features of remote sensing files with the EHMP field data to produce an output theme that contains the attributes and full extent of both themes. If polygons of remote sensing were within polygons of field data the assumption was made that the remote sensing polygon was showing more detail and the underlying field polygon was deleted."}
- {"title":"Habitat Maps derived from Flinders Reef Ecological Assessment (FREA) surveys, Queensland, Australia","recordAbstract":"In 2016-2017, UniDive (The University of Queensland Underwater Club) conducted an ecological assessment of the Flinders Reef Dive sites - the FREA project. Involvement in the project was voluntary. Members of UniDive who were marine experts conducted training for other club members who had no, or limited, experience in identifying marine organisms and mapping habitats.\n\nHabitats were mapped using a combination of towed GPS photo transects, WorldView-2 satellite imagery and expert knowledge. This data provides georeferenced information regarding the major features of each of the Flinders Reef Dive Sites."}
- {"title":"Deep reef substrata at Ningaloo Marine Park","recordAbstract":"Data from multibeam echosounder surveys taken as part of the Ningaloo Outlook project were classified into various seafloor cover types according to their hardness, rugosity and depth. The classifications were validated with towed video ground truth where it was available. This dataset describes two AOIs which are explicitly part of the Ningaloo Outlook Deep Reefs project. Substratum classifications were applied using multibeam backscatter angular response curves along with rugosity as input to a maximum likelihood classifier.\n\nSee original metadata record(s) and associated attached documents for accuracy estimates, alternate classification techniques, and additional surveyed areas.\nhttps://doi.org/10.25919/kssa-5b46\nhttps://doi.org/10.25919/kttc-x397\nhttps://doi.org/10.25919/8m65-7k26"}
- {"title":"Mapping of selected areas of Cockburn Sound, Western Australia","recordAbstract":"In 2002, aerial photography of the Perth metropolitan coastal waters was purpose-flown to obtain high quality imagery of the benthic habitats. This imagery was used to map the coverage of vegetated areas in two selected areas of Cockburn Sound: Southern Flats and Eastern Shoal. Areas of relatively poor visibility, such as the Eastern Shelf, are difficult to map with confidence using these techniques. A ground-truthing survey was undertaken in 2004 to map the seagrass and reef habitats on the Eastern Shelf utilising sidescan sonar, towed video and spot dives."}
- {"title":"Satellite-Derived Bathymetry and Seafloor Habitat Classification Mapping of Christmas Island Marine Park","recordAbstract":"Parks Australia - Indian Oceans Territory (IOT) Grants Project: Satellite-Derived Bathymetry and Seafloor Habitat Classification Mapping of Christmas Island Marine Park\n\nThis project mapped Satellite-derived Bathymetry (SDB) and seafloor habitats at 2m horizontal spatial resolution, for the shallow waters (~0-25 m) of Christmas Island Marine Park. SDB data was processed using EOMAP's proprietary software and algorithm package Watcor-X, which generates SDB using multipspectral satellite data. The SDB is based on the physics-based inversion method of the radiative transfer equation which models the pathway of light and its interaction through different media (e.g. atmosphere and water column). The thematic classification of the seabed was based on multispectral satellite image analytics. Satellite imagery was pre-processed by applying a set of image correction procedures to reduce environmental noise, resulting in a standardised reflectance surface of the subsurface and seafloor. The information on seafloor reflectance at different wavelengths was used to run an object-based classification procedure which groups objects of similar spectral characteristics, shape and texture into different classes of major seafloor habitat type.\n\nThese critical geospatial data layers provide the essential environmental baseline information for the long-term monitoring and management of the IOT Marine Parks. Having access to digital, georeferenced, high-resolution, satellite-derived maps of bathymetry and benthic habitats of shallow water areas, is of fundamental use in the areas of navigation and safety-at-sea, ecological research, environmental modelling, management and conservation, and monitoring the impacts from climate change."}
- {"title":"Seagrass and associated benthic community data derived from field surveys at Low Isles, Great Barrier Reef 1997","recordAbstract":"The distribution of seagrass and associated benthic communities was mapped between the 29 July and 29 August 1997 on the reef and lagoon at Low Isles, Great Barrier Reef. For this survey, a total of 349 benthic survey points were examined by observers walking or free‐diving at survey points positioned approximately 50 m apart along a series of transects. To assist with mapping meadow boundaries, an additional 177 points were assessed and a 1:12,000 rectified aerial photo was commissioned (26th August 1997). A differential handheld global positioning system (GPS) was used to locate each point assessed. 127.8 ±29.6 hectares of seagrass was mapped."}
- {"title":"Benthic communities and geomorphic zones of Heron Reef","recordAbstract":"Providing accurate maps of coral reefs where the spatial scale and labels of the mapped features correspond to map units appropriate for examining biological and geomorphic structures and processes is a major challenge for remote sensing. The objective of this work is to assess the accuracy and relevance of the process used to derive geomorphic zone and benthic community zone maps for three western Pacific coral reefs produced from multi-scale, object-based image analysis (OBIA) of high-spatial-resolution multi-spectral images, guided by field survey data. Three Quickbird-2 multi-spectral data sets from reefs in Australia, Palau and Fiji and georeferenced field photographs were used in a multi-scale segmentation and object-based image classification to map geomorphic zones and benthic community zones. A per-pixel approach was also tested for mapping benthic community zones. Validation of the maps and comparison to past approaches indicated the multi-scale OBIA process enabled field data, operator field experience and a conceptual hierarchical model of the coral reef environment to be linked to provide output maps at geomorphic zone and benthic community scales on coral reefs. The OBIA mapping accuracies were comparable with previously published work using other methods; however, the classes mapped were matched to a predetermined set of features on the reef."}
- {"title":"Seagrass cover map for the optically complex waters of Moreton Bay, Queensland","recordAbstract":"The aim of this study was to create a seagrass presence/absence map for the optically complex waters of Moreton Bay. The capability to map seagrass meadows in waters of varying clarity using a consistent and repeatable method is an invaluable resource for conservation and management of seagrass regionally and globally. The map was created using an adaptation of a Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud processing and machine learning algorithm which for seagrass, utilized citizen science spot check field data, Landsat 8 OLI imagery pulled directly from GEE, a bathymetry layer (30 m), slope derived from depth and a coral mask. This dataset consists of a shapefile that shows seagrass presence (≥ 25 % cover) and substrate mapped simultaneously for the turbid waters of the Western Bay coastline and the optically clear waters of the Eastern Banks, Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia.\n\nThis record contains a snapshot of the data taken for use in Seamap Australia (a national benthic habitat map; https://seamapaustralia.org). View the original record at: https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.937501"}
- {"title":"WA Marine Futures Project - biota","recordAbstract":"The Marine Futures Project was designed to benchmark the current status of key Western Australian marine ecosystems, based on an improved understanding of the relationship between marine habitats, biodiversity and our use of these values. Approximately 1,500 km2 of seafloor were mapped using hydroacoustics (Reson 8101 Multibeam), and expected benthic habitats \"ground-truthed\" using towed video transects and baited remote underwater video systems. Both sources of information were then combined in a spatial predictive modelling framework to produce fine-scale habitat maps showing the extent of substrate types, biotic formations, etc.\n\nThis project record provides linkage to each of metadata records describing data collected from the 9 study areas: Abrolhos Islands, Broke Inlet, Geographe Bay, Jurien Bay, Middle Island, Mount Gardner, Point Ann, Rottnest Island, and Southwest Capes. To access the source datasets from each study site in their original (unaggregated) form, see child records linked to this parent record."}
- {"title":"South Australia State Marine Benthic Habitats (DEWNR)","recordAbstract":"Inshore benthic habitat mapping of the Adelaide Mount Lofty Ranges (AMLR), Yorke Peninsula, Eyre Peninsula, Upper Spencer Gulf, Upper Gulf St Vincent, South East and Kangaroo Island as part of a wider DEWNR project to map specific areas of the South Australian inshore environments\n\nHabitat boundaries were interpreted from underwater features discernable on ortho-rectified aerial photographs. The data for the Upper Gulf St Vincent and Upper Spencer Gulf were captured between 2005 and 2007. AMLR data was captured between 2008 and 2009. South East data was captured between 2009 and 2010. Field observations and underwater video footage was used to capture the Upper Spencer Gulf and Upper Gulf St Vincent data. The AMLR data was captured from field observations, underwater video footage, acoustic mapping and sidescan sonar. The data sets were combined as part of a DENR Statewide project. Additional data was captured on Kangaroo Island during 2013 which included field observations and Underwater video footage. This data was added by regional staff using an adapted data schema that now includes species specific information."}
- {"title":"CAMRIS Marine Benthic Substrate Database - Marsed","recordAbstract":"This database contains information about the distribution of 10 different types of sea floor sediment in the Australian region. It was derived from data collected and mapped by the Ocean Sciences Institute, University of Sydney."}
- {"title":"Seagrass meadow extents derived from field to spaceborne earth observation at Green Island (Wunyami), a reef habitat in the Cairns section of the Great Barrier Reef, November 2020","recordAbstract":"Seagrass meadow extent and meadow-scape was mapped using two alternative approaches at Green Island, a reef clear water habitat, in the Cairns section of the Great Barrier Reef, in November 2020. Approach 1 included mapping seagrass meadow-scape using imagery captured during low spring tides with a DJI Mavic 2 Pro UAV at an altitude of 100 m, with a resolution of 2.45cm/pixel. Approach 2 used PlanetScope Dove imagery captured on 05 November 2020 coinciding as close as possible to the field-surveys from 25 to 27 November 2020, with 3.7 m x 3.7 m pixels (nadir viewing) acquired from the PlanetScope archive.\n\nThis record describes meadow extent data collected using Approach 2 (PlanetScope imagery). View the original metadata record at https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.946605 for the full data collection."}
- {"title":"Four Decades of seagrass meadows data from Torres Strait and Gulf of Carpentaria","recordAbstract":"This dataset summarises 40 years of seagrass data collection (1983-2022) within Torres Strait and the Gulf of Carpentaria. The full dataset is available through eAtlas at https://doi.org/10.26274/2CR2-JK51 and contains point and polygon packages. This record describes the meadow extent polygons at 641 individual or composite meadows.\n\nManaging seagrass resources in northern Australia requires adequate baseline information on where seagrass is (presence/absence), the mapped extent of meadows, what species are present, and date of collection. This baseline provides a reference point against which to compare seagrass loss or change through time. The scale of northern Australia and the remoteness of many seagrass meadows from human populations present a challenge for research and management agencies reporting on the state of seagrass ecological indicators. Broad-scale and repeated surveys/studies of areas are logistically and financially impractical.\n\nThis project compiled seagrass spatial data collected during surveys in Torres Strait and the Gulf of Carpentaria into a standardised form. Individual records were simplified, standardised, and corrected, and data from newer surveys additionally incorporated.\n\nThis project was funded by the National Environmental Science Programme (NESP) Marine and Coastal Hub and Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) in partnership with the Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University. The project follows on from TropWATER’s previous work compiling 35 years of seagrass spatial point data and 30 years of seagrass meadow extent data for the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area (GBRWHA) and adjacent estuaries, funded through NESP Tropical Water Quality Hub Projects.\n\nPolygons in the meadow layer are drawn from extent data collected during some surveys. Not all surveys collected meadow extent data (e.g., Torres Strait lobster surveys). The seagrass meadow layer is a composite of all the spatial polygon data we could access where meadow boundaries were mapped as part of the survey. All spatial layers were compiled into a single spatial layer using the ArcToolbox ‘merge’ function in ArcMap. Where the same meadow was surveyed multiple times as part of a long-term monitoring program, the overlapping polygons were compiled into a single polygon using the ‘merge’ function in ArcMap. Because meadows surveyed more than once were merged, there were some cases where adjacent polygons overlap each other. \n\nMeadow Data Includes:\n1.\tTemporal survey details – Survey month and year, or a list of survey dates for meadows repeatedly sampled;\n2.\tSurvey methods;\n3.\tMeadow persistence – Classified into three categories:\n a.\tUnknown – Unknown persistence as the meadow was surveyed less than five times;\n b.\tEnduring – Seagrass is present in the meadow ≥90% of the surveys;\n c.\tTransitory – Seagrass is present in the meadow <90% of the surveys; \n4.\tMeadow depth – Classified into three categories:\n a.\tIntertidal – Meadow was mapped on an exposed bank during low tide, e.g. Karumba monitoring meadow;\n b.\tSubtidal – Meadow remains completely submerged during spring low tides, e.g. Dugong Sanctuary meadow;\n c.\tIntertidal-Subtidal – Meadow includes sections that expose during low tide and sections that remain completely submerged, e.g. meadows adjacent to the Thursday Island shipping channel;\n5.\tDominant species of the meadow based on the most recent survey;\n6.\tPresence or absence of individual seagrass species in a meadow; \n7.\tMeadow density categories – Seagrass meadows were classified as light, moderate, dense, variable or unknown based on the consistency of mean above-ground biomass of the dominant species among all surveys, or percent cover of all species combined (see Table 2 in Carter et al. 2022). For example, a Halophila ovalis dominated meadow would be classed as “light” if the mean meadow biomass was always <1 gram dry weight m-2 (g DW m-2) among years, “variable” if mean meadow biomass ranged from <1 - >5 g DW m-2, and “dense” if mean meadow biomass was always >5 g DW m-2 among years. For meadows with density assessments based on both percent cover (generally from older surveys) and biomass, we assessed density categories based on the biomass data as this made the assessment comparable to a greater number of meadows, and comparable to the most recent data. Meadows with only one year of data were assigned a density category based on that year but no assessment of variability could be made and these are classified as “unknown”;\n8.\t The minimum and maximum annual mean above-ground biomass measured in g DW m-2 (+ standard error if available) for each meadow is included for meadows with >1 year of biomass data. For meadows that were only surveyed once the mean meadow biomass (+ standard error if available) is presented as the minimum and maximum biomass of the meadow. “-9999” represents meadows where no above-ground biomass data was collected.;\n9.\t The minimum and maximum annual mean percent cover is included for each meadow with >1 year of percent cover data. For meadows that were only surveyed once the mean meadow percent cover is presented as the minimum and maximum percent cover of the meadow. Older surveys (e.g., 1986 Gulf of Carpentaria surveys) used percent cover rather than biomass. For some surveys percent cover was estimated as discrete categories or ‘data binning’ (e.g., <10% - >50%). “-9999” represents meadows where no percent cover data was collected;\n10.\tMeadow area survey details – The minimum, maximum and total area (hectares; ha) for each meadow:\n a.\tTotal area - Total area of each meadow was estimated in the GDA 1994 Geoscience Australia Lambert projection using the ‘calculate geometry’ function in ArcMap. For meadows that were mapped multiple times, meadow area represents the merged maximum extent for all surveys. \n11.\tMinimum and maximum area – For meadows surveyed more than once the minimum and maximum annual area of the meadow was reported. For meadows that were only surveyed once the meadow area is presented as the minimum and maximum area of the meadow. Where possible, we retained area data reported in the original shapefiles (and calculated using original projections). Where area data did not exist in original shapefiles (e.g., 1986 Gulf of Carpentaria surveys), we calculated area using the ‘calculate geometry’ function in ArcMap in the GDA 1994 Geoscience Australia Lambert projection; Data custodians.\n\n\nSpatial Limits:\nData was limited to that collected in the Gulf of Carpentaria between Cape Arnhem (Northern Territory) and Cape York (Queensland). Torres Strait data was restricted to north of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area boundary, and includes data collected along the Papua New Guinea coastline.\n\nTaxonomy:\nSeagrass taxonomic revision over the last couple of decades has resulted in the revision and reclassification of some tropical species. Field surveys have at times grouped species that are difficult to distinguish in the field. Consequently, some species have been amalgamated into complexes:\n\nFurther information in the data sets included in this synthesis can be found in the associated report:\nCarter A, McKenna S, Rasheed M, Taylor H, van de Wetering C, Chartrand K, Reason C, Collier C, Shepherd L, Mellors J, McKenzie L, Roelofs A, Smit N, Groom R, Barrett D, Evans S, Pitcher R, Murphy N, Duke NC, Carlisle M, David M, Lui S, Torres Strait Indigenous Rangers (led by Pearson L, Laza T, Bon A), and Coles RG (2022). Four Decades of Seagrass Spatial Data from Torres Strait and Gulf of Carpentaria. Report to the National Environmental Science Program. Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic Ecosystem Research (TropWATER), James Cook University. \n\nData Dictionary:\n\nTorres Strait and Gulf of Carpentaria seagrass meadows, 1984-2022 (polygon data)\n\n- ID (numeric) - Unique identifier representing a single meadow\n- SURVEY_NAME (text) – Name of survey location\n- SURVEY_DATE (text) – A list of survey date(s) for meadows repeatedly sampled; month and year\n- PERSISTENCE (text) – Meadow form on three categories: enduring, transitory, unknown\n- DEPTH (text) – Classified into three categories (intertidal, subtidal, intertidal-subtidal)\n- DENSITY (text) – Meadow density categories (light, moderate, dense, variable, unknown) \n- AREA (text) - Area of the composite meadow in a given location in hectares, represents merged maximum extent \n- SURVEY METHOD (text) – e.g., helicopter, walking, hovercraft, boat-based including camera, free diving, scuba diving, van Veen grab, sled net\n- COMMENTS (text) – Any comments for that site\n- CUSTODIAN (text) – Custodian/owner of the data set\n- NO_SURVEYS (numeric) – Number of times meadow has been surveyed\n- DOMINANT_SPP [DOM_SPP] (text) – The dominant species in the meadow\n- EA_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Enhalus acoroides\n- TC_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Thalassodendron ciliatum\n- TH_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Thalassia hemprichii\n- CS_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Cymodocea serrulata\n- CR_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Cymodocea rotundata \n- ZC_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Zostera muelleri subsp. capricorni\n- HU_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Halodule uninervis\n- SI_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Syringodium isoetifolium\n- HS_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Halophila spinulosa\n- HT_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Halophila tricostata\n- HO_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Halophila ovalis\n- HC_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Halophila capricorni\n- HD_PA (numeric) – Absence (0) or Presence (1) of Halophila decipiens\n- BIO_MIN (numeric) – The minimum mean meadow biomass measured in g DW m-2 for meadows sampled more than once, or -9999 where biomass data not recorded\n- BIO_MIN_SE (numeric) – Standard error of the minimum mean meadow biomass measured in g DW m-2, or -9999 where biomass data not recorded\n- BIO_MAX (numeric) – The maximum mean meadow biomass measured in g DW m-2 for meadows sampled more than once, or -9999 where biomass data not recorded\n- BIO_MAX_SE (numeric) – Standard error of the maximum mean meadow biomass measured in g DW m-2, or -9999 where biomass data not recorded\n- PER_CO_MIN (numeric) – The minimum mean meadow percent cover for meadows sampled more than once, or -9999 where percent cover data not recorded\n- PER_CO_MAX (numeric) – The maximum meadow percent cover for meadows sampled more than once, or -9999 where percent cover data not recorded\n- AREA_MIN (numeric) – The minimum area for meadows sampled more than once \n- AREA_MAX (numeric) – The maximum area for meadows sampled more than once"}
- {"title":"Seagrass meadow extents derived from field to spaceborne earth observation at Yule Point, Great Barrier Reef, October 2017 to July 2020","recordAbstract":"Seagrass meadow extent and meadow-scape was mapped using four alternative approaches at Yule Point, a coastal clear water habitat, in the Cairns section of the Great Barrier Reef, between October 2017 and July 2020. Approach 1 included mapping meadow boundaries and meadow-scape during low spring tides on foot using a handheld GPS. Approach 2 was where the meadows were surveyed at low tide with observations from a helicopter, with observational spot-checks conducted at a number haphazardly scattered points. Approach 3 used imagery collected during low spring tides with a UAV at an altitude of 30 m with a resolution of 0.2cm/pixel. Approach 4 used PlanetScope Dove imagery captured on 05 September 2017 and 09 August 2019 coinciding as close as possible to the field-surveys in 2017 and 2019, with 3.7 m x 3.7 m pixels (nadir viewing) acquired from the PlanetScope archive.\n\nThis record describes meadow extent data collected using Approach 4 (PlanetScope imagery). View the original metadata record at https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.946604 for the full data collection."}
- {"title":"Very High Resolution Seafloor Classification and Satellite Derived Bathymetry of Lancelin, Australia (IMSA)","recordAbstract":"Mapping of benthic habitat and seafloor bathymetry of Lancelin, WA derived from satellite imagery captured on 17 July 2017 at a spatial resolution of 2 m. \n\nMapping extent covered as much of the Defence gazetted waters as possible, to a depth of approximately 18 m based on water clarity. Recently dead or senesced (e.g. winter dieback of leaves) and mobile seagrass have the same satellite signature as live seagrass at spectral resolutions of the sensor (WorldView-2). This ensured areas of winter dieback and/or senescence were captured as areas of seagrass for the purposes of impact assessment."}
- {"title":"Mapping and classification of Darwin Harbour seabed","recordAbstract":"This data presents the results of seabed mapping and habitat classification surveys completed in Darwin Harbour during 2011 and 2013 as part of the Northern Territory Government's marine habitat mapping program. This research is a collaboration between Geoscience Australia (GA), the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), the Department of Land Resource Management (DLRM) and the Darwin Port Corporation. Key objectives are to:\n- Produce detailed maps of the bathymetry and derived parameters such as slope and rugosity,\n- Classify the seabed into areas of hard and soft substrate, and,\n- Produce seabed habitat maps (or seascapes).\n\nKey outcomes from the surveys include:\n1. Improved understanding of the seabed of Darwin Harbour. The main seabed geomorphic features identified in Darwin Harbour include banks, ridges, plains and scarps, and a deep central channel that divides into smaller and shallower channels. Acoustically hard substrates are found mostly on banks and are associated with rocky reef and sponge gardens, and are often overlain by a thin veneer of sandy sediment. In contrast, plains and channels are characterised by acoustically soft substrates and are associated with fine sediments (mud and sand).\n2. Classification of physical seabed properties to produce a Seascape Map for Darwin Harbour. Six seascape classes (potential habitats) were derived using an Iterative Self Organising (ISO) unsupervised classification scheme. These six classes are related to statistically unique combinations of seabed substrate, relief, bedform and presence of sediment veneer (quite often inferred from presence of epibenthic biota)."}
- {"title":"Victorian Benthic Habitats - Open Coasts","recordAbstract":"The Victorian seabed habitat map documents the distribution of broad benthic habitat types in Victorian Coastal Waters to the State’s 3 nautical mile jurisdictional limit. The map was created using a top-down modelling process whereby habitat descriptors were assigned using seafloor structure and biological information derived from multibeam sonar (Victorian Marine Habitat Mapping Project), bathymetric LiDAR (Future Coasts program) and observations from underwater video.\n\nIdentification of benthic biota, to the lowest discernible taxonomic level, and substrate characteristics were recorded according to the Victorian Towed Video Classification scheme (Ierodiaconou et al. 2007)."}
- {"title":"Satellite-Derived Bathymetry and Seafloor Habitat Classification Mapping of Cocos (Keeling) Islands Marine Park","recordAbstract":"Parks Australia - Indian Oceans Territory (IOT) Grants Project: Satellite-Derived Bathymetry and Seafloor Habitat Classification Mapping of Cocos (Keeling) Island Marine Park\n\nThis project mapped Satellite-derived Bathymetry (SDB) and seafloor habitats at 2m horizontal spatial resolution, for the shallow waters (~0-25 m) of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Marine Park. SDB data was processed using EOMAP's proprietary software and algorithm package Watcor-X, which generates SDB using multipspectral satellite data. The SDB is based on the physics-based inversion method of the radiative transfer equation which models the pathway of light and its interaction through different media (e.g. atmosphere and water column). The thematic classification of the seabed was based on multispectral satellite image analytics. Satellite imagery was pre-processed by applying a set of image correction procedures to reduce environmental noise, resulting in a standardised reflectance surface of the subsurface and seafloor. The information on seafloor reflectance at different wavelengths was used to run an object-based classification procedure which groups objects of similar spectral characteristics, shape and texture into different classes of major seafloor habitat type.\n\nThese critical geospatial data layers provide the essential environmental baseline information for the long-term monitoring and management of the IOT Marine Parks. Having access to digital, georeferenced, high-resolution, satellite-derived maps of bathymetry and benthic habitats of shallow water areas, is of fundamental use in the areas of navigation and safety-at-sea, ecological research, environmental modelling, management and conservation, and monitoring the impacts from climate change."}
- {"title":"Marine Habitats of Western Australia","recordAbstract":"This dataset consists of polygons delineating the broad-scale regional marine habitats of selected areas in Western Australia, mostly in existing and proposed marine conservation reserve areas. Habitat mapping was carried out by various organisations, including DPAW, using a range of methodologies over many years. Diverse classifications and habitat descriptions were standardised to the DPaW broad-scale Shallow-water Marine Habitat Classification scheme (SMHC) (Bancroft, 2003) after initial habitat mapping and classification work had been done. Habitat polygons are classified to the broad-scale ecological Community level and where more detailed data exist, local-scale Functional Group level (Bancroft, 2003). Polygons were attributed with habitat class names only, textual descriptions of these classes are provided in this metadata statement and further in Bancroft (2003)."}
- {"title":"Benthic inventory of reefal areas in Moreton Bay, Australia","recordAbstract":"The study involved the collection of field data and acquisitioning of satellite imagery to create a map that presents a benthic inventory of reefal habitat areas within Moreton Bay. Mapping was guided by the most recent reef map (Queensland Environmental Protection Agency, 2004), the new field data, local knowledge and/or visual interpretation of high spatial resolution satellite imagery.\n\nThe inventories for each reefal area were based on georeferenced spot check field data collected by volunteer teams in 2015 and 2016 (n=610). This field data was overlayed on high spatial resolution ZY-3 satellite imagery (5 m x 5 m pixels) captured in June 2014. Polygons were manually digitised around reefal areas by an expert from the Remote Sensing Research Centre using visual interpretation of the texture and colour of the pixels in the satellite imagery, as related to water depth, field data and local field knowledge. Polygons were subsequently assigned one of three categories (Coral on reef matrix, Soft Coral on Sand/Rubble, and, Algae on sand/rubble). The project was a collaborative citizen science project between Reef Check Australia, The University of Queensland Remote Sensing Research Centre and Healthy Waterways to collect benthic inventories for eight key subtropical reefal areas in Central Moreton Bay - Mud, Saint Helena, Green, King, Macleay, Goat, and Peel Islands, and, Myora Reef."}
- {"title":"Petrel Sub-basin Marine Survey (GA-0335 / SOL5463) (NLECI Program) - interpreted geomorphic map","recordAbstract":"The Petrel Sub-basin Marine Environmental Survey GA-0335, (SOL5463) was undertaken by the RV Solander during May 2012 as part of the Commonwealth Government's National Low Emission Coal Initiative (NLECI). The survey was undertaken as a collaboration between the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) and GA. The purpose was to acquire geophysical and biophysical data on shallow (less then 100m water depth) seabed environments within two targeted areas in the Petrel Sub-basin to support investigation for CO2 storage potential in these areas. This dataset comprises an interpreted geomorphic map.\n\nInterpreted local-scale geomorphic maps were produced for each survey area in the Petrel Sub-basin using multibeam bathymetry and backscatter grids at 2 m resolution and bathymetric derivatives (e.g. slope; 1-m contours). Five geomorphic units; bank, plain, ridge, terrace and valley, were identified and mapped using definitions suitable for interpretation at the local scale (nominally 1:10 000). Maps and polygons were manual digitised in ArcGIS using the spatial analyst and 3D analyst toolboxes."}
- {"title":"Victorian Statewide Marine Habitat Map 2023","recordAbstract":"The Statewide Marine Habitat Map 2023 was developed by DEECA applying novel machine learning methods that model and predict habitat distributions as well as a mosaic of former mapping products (listed below). The Statewide map represents 24 marine and coastal habitats complexes at Level 3, Victoria's Combined Biotope Classification Scheme (CBiCS) described by Edmunds and Flynn (2015, 2018; 2021). The final map comprises of 83% its area from predictive modelling, with the remaining 17% of area from synthesised existing habitat maps.\n\nPredictive Model: A total of 32,998 habitat survey sites (ground-truth records) were used within the model, along with 28 environmental properties mapped at a 10m resolution (including a Digital Elevation Model DEM (VCDEM2021), computed benthic terrain characteristics (toolkit: Walbridge et al. 2018), Chlorophyl a (IMOS 2000a), Sea Surface Temperature SST (IMOS 2000a), Net Primary Productivity NPP (IMOS 2000b), Sediments (Geoscience Australia; Li et al. 2011a,b,c), waves (Liu et al. 2022). To predict the distribution of habitats across Victorian waters the powerful and flexible Random Forest machine learning algorithm was applied. Random Forest is an ensemble model using bagging as the ensemble method and decision trees as the individual model (Breiman 2001). The modelling produced an accuracy (Out-of-bag) of 89%.\n\nMap Synthesis: A mosaic of former mapping products that provided higher resolution mapping by aerial imagery, field observations and high-resolution modelling were integrated into the map, classifying habitat according to the CBICS habitat classification scheme at level 3. Assessed and synthesised maps and citations include: Corangamite Coast Marine Habitat December 2009 (ANZVI0803005530); East Gippsland Marine Habitats November 2009 (ANZVI0803003974); Discovery Bay Marine National Park habitat mapping 2006 (ANZVI0803004053); Portland Coastal Habitats (ANZVI0803004236) ; Corner Inlet Mapping Marine National Park North and South 2004 (ANZVI0803004051) ; Merri Marine Sanctuary 2004 (ANZVI0803004058); Western Port Bay Biotope Mapping Fathom Pacific (2016) CBiCS-Mapping. Central Victoria Coastal Habitats (ANZVI0803004135); Mallacoota Coastal Habitats (ANZVI0803004235); Western Port Rhodolite (ANZVI0803005430) & Western Port Biogenic Reefs; Port Phillip Bay Habitat Map 2021 (ANZVI0803009278); Saltmarsh and Mangrove Habitats; DELWP 2021 Statewide Marine Habitat Map 2021 (ANZVI0803009286) and relevant citations: Ball (1999), Ball et al. (2010). Ball & Blake (2007a), Ball & Blake (2007b), Blake and Ball (2001), Blake et al. (2013), Boon et al. (2011), Cohen et al (2000), Deakin Marine Mapping (Zavalas, R et al. 2018), DELWP (1994), Edmunds &Flynn (2015), Fathom Pacific (2020), Ford et al (2016), GeoHab Victoria Estuaries Geomorphology (2010), Ierodiaconou 2007, Ierodiaconou et al. 2018, Mazor et al. (2021), Monk et al. (2011), Poore (1992), Roob and Ball (1997), Victoria Department of Transport (1999), Young et al. 2022, Zavalas, R et al. 2018.\n\nApplications: The Statewide Marine Habitat Map 2023 provides broad habitat complexes across the state and provides greater knowledge of the ecological diversity across Victoria¿s waters. The map should be used at broad scales of >25 m, and where information of larger habitat complexes is needed. This work can support the management of large-scale habitats, their condition, marine spatial planning, strategic management prospect (SMP), FeAST risk assessments, and other broad scale applications to support management decisions across Victoria. The habitat model and resulting map provides an updated broad-scale habitat map across Victoria¿s state waters and provides a baseline for future data to build upon."}
- {"title":"Dugong and Turtle seagrass habitats in the North-West Torres Strait","recordAbstract":"This dataset describes seagrass at 34 individual meadows from surveys of Dugong and Turtle habitats in the North-West Torres Strait for November 2015 and January 2016. The data includes information on seagrass species, biomass, diversity, and BMI and algae percent cover. \n\nThis meadow (polygon) layer provides summary information for all survey sites within the 34 individual seagrass meadows mapped in 2015-2016 with information including individual meadow ID, meadow location (intertidal/shallow subtidal/subtidal), meadow density based on mean biomass, meadow area, dominant seagrass species, seagrass species present, survey dates, survey method, and data custodian. ESRI and Landsat satellite image basemaps were used as background source data to check meadow and site boundaries, and re-map where required.\n\nThe data described by this record is current as of 01/12/2016 for use in the Seamap Australia project. Newer versions of the data, additional 'point' data for 853 sites, and alternative download formats are available from eAtlas. http://eatlas.org.au/geonetwork/srv/eng/metadata.show?uuid=034ce816-0777-4bbd-aefc-8b73bd540245"}
- {"title":"Jurien Bay benthic habitat mapping","recordAbstract":"Jurien Bay Boat Harbour is located north of the town of Jurien Bay, ~250 km north of Perth, Western Australia. The Boat Harbour services a range of government, recreational and commercial vessels and is managed by the WA Department of Transport (DoT).\n\nWrack and marine sediments frequently accumulate in the Boat Harbour, negatively affecting the navigability, environment and aesthetic quality of the Harbour. To manage these impacts, routine maintenance dredging is undertaken by DoT.\n\nTo inform future dredging requirements and marine environmental management of the Boat Harbour, BMT undertook benthic habitat mapping of Jurien Bay in November 2017 on behalf of DoT. The objectives of the mapping project were to:\ni. collect baseline data on the spatial extent and characteristics of benthic habitats in the mapping area, and\nii. qualitatively characterise the extent of benthic primary producer habitat surrounding the Boat Harbour, and develop a mapping product to inform dredging operations and potential future environmental approvals applications, if necessary.\n\nMapping was conducted by first collating satellite imagery to identify benthic habitat features to be ground-truthed by towed video. Video footage was annotated with biological attributes and combined with the satellite imagery to create classified benthic habitat maps of an area offshore of the Boat Harbour.\n\nSee the \"Lineage\" section of this record and attached survey report for detailed methodology."}
- {"title":"Habitat Maps derived from Point Lookout Ecological Surveys (PLEA)","recordAbstract":"In 2014, UniDive (The University of Queensland Underwater Club) conducted an ecological assessment of the Point Lookout Dive sites for comparison with similar surveys conducted in 2001 - the PLEA project. Involvement in the project was voluntary. Members of UniDive who were marine experts conducted training for other club members who had no, or limited, experience in identifying marine organisms and mapping habitats.\n\nSince the 2001 detailed baseline study, no similar seasonal survey has been conducted. The 2014 data is particularly important given that numerous changes have taken place in relation to the management of, and potential impacts on, these reef sites. In 2009, Moreton Bay Marine Park was re-zoned, and Flat Rock was converted to a marine national park zone (Green zone) with no fishing or anchoring. In 2012, four permanent moorings were installed at Flat Rock. Additionally, the entire area was exposed to the potential effects of the 2011 and 2013 Queensland floods, including flood plumes which carried large quantities of sediment into Moreton Bay and surrounding waters. The population of South East Queensland has increased from 2.49 million in 2001 to 3.18 million in 2011 (BITRE, 2013). This rapidly expanding coastal population has increased the frequency and intensity of both commercial and recreational activities around Point Lookout dive sites (EPA 2008).\n\nHabitats were mapped using a combination of towed GPS photo transects, aerial photography and expert knowledge. This data provides georeferenced information regarding the major features of each of the Point Lookout Dive Sites."}
- {"title":"Multi-temporal mapping of seagrass cover, species and biomass of the Eastern Banks, Moreton Bay","recordAbstract":"The spatial and temporal dynamics of seagrasses have been studied from the leaf to patch (100 m**2) scales. However, landscape scale (> 100 km**2) seagrass population dynamics are unresolved in seagrass ecology. Previous remote sensing approaches have lacked the temporal or spatial resolution, or ecologically appropriate mapping, to fully address this issue. This paper presents a robust, semi-automated object-based image analysis approach for mapping dominant seagrass species, percentage cover and above ground biomass using a time series of field data and coincident high spatial resolution satellite imagery. The study area was a 142 km**2 shallow, clear water seagrass habitat (the Eastern Banks, Moreton Bay, Australia). Nine data sets acquired between 2004 and 2013 were used to create seagrass species and percentage cover maps through the integration of seagrass photo transect field data, and atmospherically and geometrically corrected high spatial resolution satellite image data (WorldView-2, IKONOS and Quickbird-2) using an object based image analysis approach. Biomass maps were derived using empirical models trained with in-situ above ground biomass data per seagrass species. Maps and summary plots identified inter- and intra-annual variation of seagrass species composition, percentage cover level and above ground biomass. The methods provide a rigorous approach for field and image data collection and pre-processing, a semi-automated approach to extract seagrass species and cover maps and assess accuracy, and the subsequent empirical modelling of seagrass biomass. The resultant maps provide a fundamental data set for understanding landscape scale seagrass dynamics in a shallow water environment. Our findings provide proof of concept for the use of time-series analysis of remotely sensed seagrass products for use in seagrass ecology and management."}
- {"title":"Moreton Bay coral 2004","recordAbstract":"Benthic habitat mapping of Moreton Bay, from Comboyuro Point to Jacobs Well. Mapping conducted as part of the Ecosystem Health Monitoring Program."}
- {"title":"Oceanic Shoals Commonwealth Marine Reserve (Timor Sea) Biodiversity Survey (GA0339/SOL5650) - Interpreted Geomorphic Map","recordAbstract":"The Oceanic Shoals survey (SOL5650, GA survey 339) was conducted on the R.V. Solander in collaboration with Geoscience Australia, the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS), University of Western Australia and the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory between 12 September - 5 October, 2012. This dataset comprises an interpreted geomorphic map.\n\nInterpreted local-scale geomorphic maps were produced for each survey area in the Oceanic Shoals Commonwealth Marine Reserve (CMR) using multibeam bathymetry and backscatter grids at 2 m resolution and bathymetric derivatives (e.g. slope; 1-m contours). Six geomorphic units; bank, depression, mound, plain, scarp and terrace were identified and mapped using definitions suitable for interpretation at the local scale (nominally 1:10 000). Maps and polygons were manual digitised in ArcGIS using the spatial analyst and 3D analyst toolboxes.\n\nFor further information on the geomorphic mapping methods please refer to Appendix N of the post-survey report, published as Geoscience Australia Record 2013/38: Nichol, S.L., Howard, F.J.F., Kool, J., Stowar, M., Bouchet, P., Radke, L., Siwabessy, J., Przeslawski, R., Picard, K., Alvarez de Glasby, B., Colquhoun, J., Letessier, T. & Heyward, A. 2013. Oceanic Shoals Commonwealth Marine Reserve (Timor Sea) Biodiversity Survey: GA0339/SOL5650 Post Survey Report. Record 2013/38. Geoscience Australia: Canberra. (GEOCAT #76658)."}
- {"title":"Norfolk Island Nearshore and Coastal Habitat Mapping","recordAbstract":"Ocean Infinity (Australia) Pty Ltd (formerly iXblue Pty Ltd), in partnership with Deakin University’s Marine Mapping Group, University of Wollongong, Tellus4D Geoimaging, University of Newcastle, University of New South Wales, University of Tasmania, and Geoscience Australia, undertook a combined aerial and hydrographic survey as part of the Norfolk Island Nearshore and Coastal Habitat Mapping project under Parks Australia Grant Activity ID 4-FISKTDM.\n\nThe work aimed to establish a detailed baseline of Norfolk Island’s nearshore coastal and shelf environments to inform management, conservation, and research. From 21 to 24 July 2021, 109 km² of the Norfolk Shelf was mapped using high-resolution multibeam sonar, along with two sub-bottom profiles. These were supplemented by 44 Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUV) deployments in the northeast and south of the island to assess fish assemblages and provide ground truthing data for interpretation of seabed nature.\n\nIn November 2021, a separate coastal survey using high-resolution drone photogrammetry captured geomorphic and habitat information at seven coastal sites: Captain Cook Lookout, Anson Bay, Puppy’s Point, Headstone Point, Slaughter Bay and Bombora Beach, and Cemetery and Emily Bay. These locations span a variety of morphologies, from exposed basaltic shore platforms and dramatic cliffs to offshore stacks and pockets of rocky beach.\n\nThe data collected by the project provides a detailed view of the marine and coastal geomorphology of Norfolk Island. The data provides an initial condition assessment of key areas to inform park management, habitat protection, and future targeted studies such as further bathymetric mapping in sensitive areas and expanded ground-truthing of seabed habitats."}
- {"title":"Darwin Harbour marine habitats","recordAbstract":"This data was collected to improve our knowledge and understanding of the marine environment in the upper reaches of East and Middle Arms (Darwin Harbour), to assist planning and sustainable development for the new township. \n\nData provide polygon data that map the benthic habitats (12 physical and biological categories) in the upper reaches of the harbour using remote-sensed and survey data.\n\nThis dataset is being continually updated and is current as of 03/03/2016."}
- {"title":"Mangroves of the Northern Territory, 1:100,000","recordAbstract":"This spatial polygon dataset is derived from the 2001 mapping of mud crab (Scylla serrata) habitats along the NT and Queensland coastal wetlands. The polygons were derived from Landsat imagery and verified with field work and is suitable for use at scale 1:100,000.\n\nThe information can be used in many ways to assist the management of these habitats. It provides a suitable baseline dataset for monitoring broad scale changes in area and composition of coastal wetland communities. Additionally, it provides information required by managers for choosing representative habitats for protection."}
- {"title":"Gold Coast Broadwater Seagrass mapping 2005/08","recordAbstract":"Seagrass meadows within the Broadwater were mapped using high-resolution 2005 orthorectified color aerial photography obtained from the Gold Coast City Council at a scale of 1:10,000 and pixel size 0.15 m. Using desktop GIS mapping (MapInfo Professional 8.0), polygons were drawn over all potential seagrass meadows at a scale of 1:5000. Spatial accuracy was estimated to be approximately ± 1 m on well-defined boundaries (e.g. dense seagrass meadows) and ± 2 m along poorly defined boundaries (e.g. sparse seagrass meadows)."}
- {"title":"Mangroves of North-western Australia mapped with multi-dimensional space–time remote sensing (ICoAST)","recordAbstract":"Mangroves are a globally important ecosystem subject to significant anthropogenic and climate impacts. Tidally submerged forests and those that occur in arid and semi-arid regions are particularly susceptible to sea level rise or are growing at the margins of their their ecophysiological limits. The spatial extent of these types of mangroves over broad scales are typically poorly documented as their structural and environmental characteristics make them difficult to detect using remote sensing models.\n\nThis study utilised the entire Landsat 8 satellite collection between January 2014 and June 2021. A new cloud-based time-series method was used that accounts for tidal variance in detecting mangrove areas that are periodically inundated and have historically been difficult to detect with traditional remote sensing methods. A habitat area model was derived for remote North-western Australia and detected an additional 32% (76,048 hectares) of mangroves that were previously undocumented. The accuracy of the model was assessed within the distinct geomorphic zones of the region through visual validation from high-resolution imagery.\n\nSee accompanying report for full methodology:\nHickey, S.M.; Radford, B. Turning the Tide on Mapping Marginal Mangroves with Multi-Dimensional Space–Time Remote Sensing. Remote Sens. 2022, 14, x. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs14143365"}
- {"title":"Survey and stock size estimates of the shallow reef (0-15 m) and shoal area (15-50 m) marine resources and habitat mapping within the MOU74 Box","recordAbstract":"The MOU74 Box, off the northwest Australian coastline, is an area of approximately 50,000 sq. km within the Australian Fishing Zone. It contains five large, shallow reef systems (less than 15 m deep) ranging in size from 227 sq. km (Ashmore Reef) to 4.5 sq. km (Browse Island). They total approximately 560 sq. km in area. Immediately north of the MOU74 Box within the Australian Fishing Zone (Little Area A) is another shallow reef, Hibernia Reef. In addition to the shallow reefs, there is approximately 925 sq. km of shoal areas (15 to 50 m deep) within the MOU74 Box and 301 sq. km of shoal areas in Little Area A. \nThe reefs and shoals support populations of sedentary reef resources including several species of holothurians (beche-de-mer, sea cucumbers) and trochus, as well as reef-associated fin-fish and sharks. These resources have been fished for many years by Indonesian fishers. Ashmore Reef was declared a Marine Nature Reserve in 1983, banning the removal of fauna and flora to a depth of 50 m. The remaining reefs in the area are under continued, and probably increasing, fishing pressure. \nThe marine resources of the MOU74 Box are managed by the Australian Government. Under the terms of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Australian and Indonesian governments, continued traditional fishing by Indonesian fishing vessels is allowed, principally for sedentary resources such as beche-de-mer (trepang) and trochus, but also fin-fish and reef shark. Apart from limited catch data collected by surveillance and regulatory authorities, little is known about the catch of the Indonesian fishers and the effects of fishing on the target species. There are concerns that the current level of fishing may be unsustainable.\nIn September and October 1998, CSIRO Division of Marine Resources surveyed the shallow reefs (0-15 m deep) and shoal areas (15-50 m deep) of the MOU74 Box area and Little Area A to the north. Its purpose was to assess the status of the reef resources in the area, and the environment that supports them. Fieldwork for the survey was completed on 10 October 1998. \nOverall, the sedentary marine living resources on the shallow reefs were heavily depleted with the high-value species over-exploited and the lower value species probably either fully or over-exploited. Despite the low density, there appears to be a sustained fishing effort by Indonesian fishers in the area. A drastic reduction in effort would be required to allow for a recovery of the higher value species, and to protect other species from severe depletion. \nThe exception is Ashmore Reef, where there were significant populations of most target species. However, there is most likely some illegal fishing occurring on Ashmore Reef and there is clear evidence of exploitation of at least the high-value resources. The nature of these fisheries and the depleted state of the other reefs in the MOU74 Box suggests that the remaining resources on Ashmore Reef could be quickly depleted if the protection currently given to the reef is not maintained and possibly enhanced. For many reasons, including the potential for recruitment of larvae to depleted reefs, it is important that these populations are protected. Year round protection of the resources on Ashmore Reef should be considered.\n\nThis record describes the following survey data for the Timor MOU74 Box:\n• Classified satellite habitat map for Scott and Seringapatam Reefs.\n• Classified satellite habitat map for Ashmore, Hibernia and Cartier Reefs."}
- {"title":"Seagrass meadows of Hervey Bay and the Great Sandy Strait, Queensland, derived from field surveys conducted 6-14 December, 1998","recordAbstract":"Approximately 2,362 ±289 km2 of seagrass meadows were mapped in the waters of Hervey Bay and Great Sandy Strait between 6 and 14 December 1998. This was the first comprehensive survey of the Great Sandy region. The survey involved examination of 1,104 field validation points and identified 174 individual meadows. Seagrass extended from the intertidal and shallow subtidal waters to a depth of 32m. Seven species of seagrass were identified (Cymodocea serrulata, Halodule uninervis, Syringodium isoetifolium, Halophila decipiens, Halophila ovalis, Halophila spinulosa and Zostera muelleri) within 22 seagrass meadow/community types. Mapping survey methodologies followed standardised global seagrass research methods for intertidal, shallow subtidal (2‐10m depth) and deep waters (>10m) using both in situ and remote assessments.\n\nView the original metadata record at https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.876714."}
- {"title":"Kimberley reef extent, geomorphology and habitat mapping (ReefKIM)","recordAbstract":"The coral reefs of Australia’s North West Kimberley Bioregion are both unique and internationally significant. They exist in one of the most extreme marine environments globally, characterised by the highest tidal range in the southern hemisphere, persistent turbidity, and frequent cyclones. These conditions have shaped coral reefs with distinct geomorphological attributes. The region’s remoteness has minimised direct anthropogenic pressures, but it also presents substantial logistical and financial challenges for data collection and fieldwork.\n\nTo improve access to information about this region, a geodatabase termed 'ReefKIM' was developed. ReefKIM integrates diverse datasets into a single, comprehensive repository to support research and management. Sources include satellite imagery, orthophotos, bathymetric charts, sub-bottom profiles, geological maps, seabed geomorphology, reef cores, biophysical data, and extensive ground-truthing.\n\nThis enabled consistent derivation of six broad feature classes:\n(1) reef extents\n(2) geomorphological zones\n(3) habitats and substrates\n(4) coastlines\n(5) island boundaries; and\n(6) other studies and work (e.g. ground truth points, survey, sample collections, coring sites, sub-bottom profiles, images)\n\nThis record provides access to items (1), (2) and (3) of the ReefKIM components, collated for the purposes of the Seamap Australia National Benthic Habitat Mapping collaborative project.\n\n• Reef extents: 853 reef features with size, shape, and reef type attributes.\n• Geomorphological zones: Five standardised reef zones (land, reef flat, lagoon, reef crest, and fore-reef slope) mapped for 30 reefs.\n• Habitats and substrates: Seven habitat/substrate classes (mangroves, sand, seagrass and algae, coral rubble, reef pavement with algal turf, crustose coralline algae, and coral communities) mapped for 30 islands and reefs.\n\nAdditional ReefKIM products are stored at the Pawsey Supercomputing Centre under:\nWA Node Ocean Data Network > WAMSI2 > KMRP > 1.3 > 1.3.1\nA full directory is documented in '1.3.1_Folder_Structure.pdf' in 1.3.1>001_Metadata at https://storage.pawsey.org.au/public/projects"}
- {"title":"Queensland Coastal Wetlands Resources Mapping Data","recordAbstract":"1:100,000 coastal wetland vegetation mapping for Queensland including mangrove communities, saltpans and saline grasslands. Mapping taken from Landsat TM images with ground truthing. Additional metadata is available for details of techniques and accuracy for each section of coastline. Data Currency for each section of coast: NT border to Flinders River - 1995 SE Gulf of Carpentaria - 1987, 1988, 1991, 1992 Cape York Peninsula - 1986-88, 1991 Cape Trib to Bowling Green Bay - 1997-99 The Burdekin Region - 1991 The Bowen Region - 1994-95 The Whitsunday Region - 1997 Repulse Bay - 1989 Central Qld - 1995, 1997 The Curtis Coast Region - 1997 Round Hill Head to Tin Can Inlet - 1997 Moreton Region - 1995."}
- {"title":"Characterising the fish habitats of the Recherche Archipelago - Benthic habitats (FRDC (2001/060)","recordAbstract":"The Fisheries Research and Development Corporation Project (FRDC) No. 2001/060 characterised and identified the distribution of the different benthic habitats of the Recherche Archipelago and identified the distribution of assemblages of fish, mobile invertebrates, filter feeding communities and seagrasses and the patterns and processes which structure them. Benthic habitat were determined from the interpretation of Landsat imagery, sidescan sonar imagery and video validation data collected within the Recherche region from May 2002 to November 2003."}
- {"title":"Montara offshore banks substrata mapping","recordAbstract":"In 2009, reefs and shoals near the Montara oil field were exposed to an uncontrolled release of oil and gas that lasted for 74 days.\n\nIn response, PTTEP commissioned extensive studies into the marine life and ecosystems of the Timor Sea. This record describes the high resolution multibeam data collected by the Australian Institute of Marine Science during PTTEP-funded field surveys to predict the types and distribution of substrate that make up each shoal.\n\nThe shoal maps are supplied in vector Shapefile format, resampled to 4m, and at native resolution (~2m) in Geotiff format, with the following substratum classes: 1 = Limestone (high relief), 2 = Limestone (low relief), 3 = Rubble, 4 = Mixed substrate, 5 = Sand and rubble, 6 = Sand"}
- {"title":"Very High Resolution Seafloor Classification and Satellite Derived Bathymetry of Swanbourne, Australia (IMSA)","recordAbstract":"Mapping of benthic habitat and seafloor bathymetry of Swanbourne, WA derived from satellite imagery captured on 03 June 2017 at a spatial resolution of 2 m. \n\nMapping extent covered as much of the Defence gazetted waters as possible, to a depth of approximately 18 m based on water clarity. Recently dead or senesced (e.g. winter dieback of leaves) and mobile seagrass have the same satellite signature as live seagrass at spectral resolutions of the sensor (WorldView-2). This ensured areas of winter dieback and/or senescence were captured as areas of seagrass for the purposes of impact assessment."}
- {"title":"CAMRIS Seagrass Dataset","recordAbstract":"This data contains information about the distribution of seagrass around the Australian coastline. It was prepared by Dr. Hugh Kirkman (CSIRO Division of Fisheries) from a review of published and unpublished sources, and updated by Dr. Ian Hahmdorf, (Bureau of Rural Sciences).\n\nGeneral info:\nCAMRIS, standing for the Coastal and Marine Resources Information System, is a small-scale spatial analysis system developed in collaboration by several divisions of Australia's Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), as part of the CSIRO Coastal Zone Program. CSIRO Division of Wildlife and Ecology was the custodian of the 'coastal' subset of the Australian Resources Information System (ARIS). Coastal ARIS became the core dataset of the CAMRIS project. The Coastal ARIS database was developed from a coastal inventory developed by Galloway et al. This inventory contained relatively large scale data including landform, geology, vegetation, soil, land use, climate and population information for each of 3027 3x10km sections around the coastline of mainland Australia and Tasmania, but excluding offshore islands."}
- {"title":"Great Barrier Reef 10m Grid (GBR10) GBRMP Benthic","recordAbstract":"The GBR10 benthic habitat type map is the output of a modelling process that combines satellite imagery and other environmental attributes like water depth, slope and wave climate, along with known occurrences of benthic habitat type. The occurrences of benthic habitat type were derived through machine learning applied to geolocated photos of the benthos (>100,000 photos) that were collected along reef flats and reef slopes at various offshore shallow reefs (~100 reefs). The modelling process involves taking those occurrences of benthic habitat at known locations (training data) and using a machine learning model to build a relationship between benthic habitat type and the underlying data layers (imagery, depth, slope, waves). Because the data layers cover the whole Great Barrier Reef, a prediction is then able to be made for benthic habitat across the whole Great Barrier Reef as well. Contextual editing was then used to make changes to the map, based on a set of geomorphology- and ecology-based rules, such as what environment a class can occur in and what classes are able to neighbour each other (object-based rulesets). This map covers the “offshore” or “mid and outer-shelf” reefs of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Some of the occurrences of benthic habitat type are withheld from the process, and used to check how well the mapping performed at the end (validation). The mapping was carried out by the Remote Sensing Research Centre at the University of Queensland.\n\nThe scientific method for generating the benthic habitat map can be briefly described as:\n1. Ingestion of Sentinel-2 satellite image data, bathymetry and wave climate data derived from Sentinel-2 image data, and various additional derived environmental covariates into Google Earth Engine\n2. Stacking of the input data sources into a model-ready environment\n3. Running a segmentation routine to create image objects\n4. Fitting a supervised machine learning model (e.g. random forest) to known occurrences in order to classify segments into benthic classes\n5. Application of object based rules using a range of colour, shape texture and relationship rules to modify the class attribution\n6. Validation of mapping accuracy and performance\n\nThis is an snapshot of the GBR10 benthic dataset taken on Jan 2023 for the Seamap Australia project from the GBRMP Reef Knowledge System (https://reefiq.gbrmpa.gov.au/ReefKnowledgeSystem), see also https://gbrmpa.maps.arcgis.com/home/item.html?id=492a87d95e8243728486718e7aed02a8. An updated version of the data may be available from the source provider."}
- {"title":"Ecosystem characterisation of Australia's North West Shelf","recordAbstract":"Habitats serve a variety of functions on the North West Shelf (NWS). They support the life history stages of a diverse suite of tropical species including commercially harvested ones. In addition to natural disturbance regimes, habitats are altered in response to the sectoral uses, which in turn affects the distribution and life histories of species. Habitats thus serve as the nexus linking species with uses and natural disturbance, and different habitats serve different purposes at various stages of the life history of a species. A detailed understanding of habitats, at least at the structural level, is thus a prerequisite for a more comprehensive understanding of ecological structure and functions on the North West Shelf.\n\nThis component of the North West Shelf Joint Environmental Management Study (NWSJEMS) aimed to collate and integrate data on habitats for the region of the North West Shelf extending from North West Cape to Port Hedland and from the coast to the 200 m isobath. The three main activities of the study were: Development of an integrated collection of information on habitats of the North West Shelf, including expert information; Application of the CSIRO Habitat Classification Framework to the data to determine the spatial nesting and structuring of habitat units on the North West Shelf; and Provision of the habitat structure classification for input into other models developed within NWSJEMS.\n\nThis record describes data of key benthic marine ecosystems and habitats. These maps and descriptions of their component attributes were designed to assist the process modelling of the ecosystem and impacts of uses, as well as directly supporting planning and management by Western Australian agencies and industries."}
- {"title":"Habitat map of seagrass cover derived from a supervised moderate-spatial-resolution multi-spectral satellite image, integrated with manual delineation and coincident field data, Moreton Bay, 2004","recordAbstract":"A supervised classification was applied to a Landsat TM5 image. This image was acquired on the 8th August 2004, 15 minutes after low tide. The image classification was applied on areas of clear waters up to three metres depth and for exposed regions of Moreton Bay. Field validation data was collected at 2800 survey sites by UQ, 18 Seagrass-Watch sites and 60 Port of Brisbane Corporation survey sites. GPS referenced field data were used as training areas for the image classification process. For this training the substrate DN signatures were extracted from the Landsat 5 TM image for field survey locations of known substrate cover, enabling a characteristic \"spectral reflectance signature\" to be defined for each target. The Landsat TM image, containing only those pixels in water < 3.0m deep, was then subject to minimum distance to means algorithm to group pixels with similar DN signatures (assumed to correspond to the different substrata). This process enabled each pixel to be assigned a label of either seagrass cover (0, 1-25 %, 25-50 %, 50-75 % and 75-100 %). The resulting raster data was then converted into a vector polygon file. Species information was added based on the field data and expert knowledge.\n\nBoth polygon files were joined by overlaying features of remote sensing files with the EHMP field data to produce an output theme that contains the attributes and full extent of both themes. If polygons of remote sensing were within polygons of field data the assumption was made that the remote sensing polygon was showing more detail and the underlying field polygon was deleted."}
- {"title":"WA Marine Futures Project - reef habitat","recordAbstract":"The Marine Futures Project was designed to benchmark the current status of key Western Australian marine ecosystems, based on an improved understanding of the relationship between marine habitats, biodiversity and our use of these values. Approximately 1,500 km2 of seafloor were mapped using hydroacoustics (Reson 8101 Multibeam), and expected benthic habitats \"ground-truthed\" using towed video transects and baited remote underwater video systems. Both sources of information were then combined in a spatial predictive modelling framework to produce fine-scale habitat maps showing the extent of substrate types, biotic formations, etc.\n\nThis project record provides linkage to each of metadata records describing data collected from the 9 study areas: Abrolhos Islands, Broke Inlet, Geographe Bay, Jurien Bay, Middle Island, Mount Gardner, Point Ann, Rottnest Island, and Southwest Capes. To access the source datasets from each study site in their original (unaggregated) form, see child records linked to this parent record."}
- {"title":"Estuarine Habitats of South Australia","recordAbstract":"This dataset contains habitat mapping and outer boundaries for estuaries of South Australia. These estuaries were identified in the draft 'Estuaries Policy and Action Plan.'\n\nUsed to identify the estuarine habitats within South Australia for use in natural resource management and conservaton planning. Description of attributes in related Inventory and Water Quality tables can be found in report: 'Working Towards a State-wide Inventory of Estuaries 2009 - Advancing the inventory of estuaries in five Natural Resource Management Regions of South Australia', DEH and Adelaide Mounty Lofty Ranges NRM Board."}
- {"title":"NSW Estuarine Macrophytes 2023","recordAbstract":"Distribution and abundance of seagrass, mangrove and saltmarsh in NSW estuaries.\n\nThis dataset is ongoing. This record describes a snapshot of the data taken in February 2023 for use in the Seamap Australia project. A more recent version of the dataset may be available through the NSW DPI Fisheries Data Portal.\n\nThis dataset supersedes https://metadata.imas.utas.edu.au/geonetwork/srv/eng/catalog.search#/metadata/281FAA64-F6F3-400C-A48F-D342E4ABCA83 (Estuarine macrophytes of NSW 2009) and https://metadata.imas.utas.edu.au/geonetwork/srv/eng/catalog.search#/metadata/021f65eb-38c6-4db2-9dbe-821b6b427780 (An Estuarine Inventory for NSW 1984)."}
- {"title":"Collation of seagrass meadows data from 1984 - 2014 for the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area","recordAbstract":"This dataset summarises 30 years of seagrass data collection (1984-2014) within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. The Meadow data describes seagrass at 1,169 individual or composite meadows. The data includes information on species, meadow type and age and reliability of the data. Data represented in this dataset has been collected by the TropWATER Seagrass Group and CSIRO in a GIS database.\n\nIn making this data publicly available for management, the authors from the TropWATER Seagrass Group request being contacted and involved in decision making processes that incorporate this data, to ensure its limitations are fully understood. The site and meadow GIS available on eAtlas should be considered a “living” document that will be updated and modified as new data become available.\n\nAdditional 'point' site data, and alternative download formats are available from eAtlas. https://eatlas.org.au/geonetwork/srv/eng/catalog.search#/metadata/77998615-bbab-4270-bcb1-96c46f56f85a\n\nA later version (2020) of this dataset including 35 years of data has been published under \"Seagrass mapping synthesis: A resource for coastal management in the Great Barrier Reef (NESP TWQ Project 3.2.1 and 5.4, TropWATER, James Cook University).\" https://eatlas.org.au/data/uuid/5011393e-0db7-46ce-a8ee-f331fcf83a88\n\n\nData Dictionary:\n\nSeagrass meadow data:\n\n- NRM_REGION: The NRM region in which the survey occurred.\n- SURVEY_DAT: Survey month and year, or a list of survey dates for meadows repeatedly sampled.\n- METHOD: Sampling and mapping methods – GPS/aerial photography, helicopter, walking, boat with camera, diver, grab and/or sled.\n- PERSISTENC: Meadows were classed according to four categories: Stable, Variable, Highly variable ephemeral, or Unknown.\n- MEADOW_LOC: Meadows were classed according to three categories, although some meadows cover a range of these locations: Intertidal, Shallow subtidal, or Deep subtidal.\n- DENSITY: Meadow density categories (light, dense, variable among years, unknown) were determined by the consistency of mean above-ground biomass of the dominant species among all years sampled.\n- DOMINANT_S: Dominant species and species present.\n- SPP_PRESEN: All species present.\n- MEAN_BIOMA: Mean meadow biomass in g DW m-2 (+ standard error if available), or the minimum and maximum biomass recorded for meadows sampled more than once.\n- AREA_HA: Meadow area in hectares (+ reliability estimate if available), or the minimum and maximum area recorded for meadows sampled more than once.\n- HECTARES: Total extent of meadow (HA)\n- PERCENT_CO: Meadow percent cover - this value represents mean seagrass percent cover, or the range of percent cover (if >1 number in the data cell). Meadow percent cover was most commonly calculated in pre-1990s surveys and recorded as “n/a” if not available.\n- CUSTODIAN: Data custodians\n- COMMENTS\n\nMeadow Persistence:\n- Stable: enduring meadow form; seagrass presence, biomass and area expected to be stable over time and seagrass meadow expected to be a permanent feature apart from extreme events or sustained long term impacts;\n- Variable: meadow presence, biomass and area expected to fluctuate within and among years, but generally some seagrass expected to be present apart from extreme events or sustained long term impacts;\n- Highly variable ephemeral: meadow not persistent over time; at some time periods seagrass will be present and at other times absent. Ephemeral meadows that have a naturally extreme level of variation in area and biomass within and among years;\n- Unknown: undetermined persistence as meadow sampled only once.\n\nMeadow Location:\n- Intertidal - all sites surveyed by helicopter or walking within a meadow and/or comments in field books identified an intertidal meadow,\n- Shallow subtidal - meadows where free divers SCUBA, sled collection, or cameras were used to sample and water depth was generally <10 m;\n- Deep subtidal - for this project meadows >10 m deep were included as deep subtidal."}
- {"title":"Changes in seagrass coverage in Cockburn Sound, Western Australia between 1967 and 1999","recordAbstract":"Changes in seagrass coverage in Cockburn Sound from 1967 to 1999 were assessed from aerial photographs using modern mapping methods with the aim of accurately determining the magnitude of change in hectares of seagrasses between 1967 and 1999."}
- {"title":"Seabed habitat New South Wales State Waters","recordAbstract":"Digitised habitat layers for the New South Wales continental shelf predominantly to 3NM. The shape file contains polygons of areas of 1) reef and 2) unconsolidated seafloor types as interpreted from a number of remote sensing methods predominantly mulitbeam, LIDAR (LADS) and Aerial Imagery obtained in surveys across 2005-2013."}
- {"title":"Geomorphology map of the Huon Australian Marine Park","recordAbstract":"The Huon Commonwealth Marine Reserve (CMR) covers a broad depth range from the inner continental shelf at about 70 m, to abyssal depths of more than 3000 m. The majority of the area is in deep water. The Tasman Seamounts Marine Reserve that was proclaimed in 1999 has been wholly incorporated into the Huon Commonwealth marine reserve. The reserve contains a cluster of seamounts that appear as cone-shaped submerged mountains, which provide a range of depths for a diversity of plants and animals.\n\nThe peaks of many of the reserve's seamounts are between 750 m and 1000 m below the sea surface and support endemic species, including large erect corals and sponges. Some of the flora and fauna are hundreds and possibly thousands of years old, making them some of the longest-lived animals on Earth. The reserve also provides an important connection between seamounts of the Indian Ocean and the Tasman Sea.\n\nThis map of the geomorphology of the Huon CMR was prepared for the NESP Marine Biodiversity Hub Theme D (1) project: National data collation, synthesis and visualisation to support sustainable use, management and monitoring of marine assets."}
- {"title":"Franklin and Zeehan Marine Park fine-scale seafloor substrate mapping","recordAbstract":"Fine-scale bathymetry mapping was conducted in the Franklin and Zeehan Australian Marine Parks (AMPs) located off the west coast of Tasmania, Australia. The primary objective of this mapping exercise was to map seafloor features of the shelf areas of these AMPs for the first time and to understand the distribution of benthic habitats and key sessile invertebrate species within these areas.\n\nCharacterisation of the seafloor was undertaken in two phases. The first stage used multibeam sonar to comprehensively map the study areas, extracting bathymetry and backscatter products. This was followed by extensive ground validation undertaken by a panoramic stereo drop-camera system that also recorded the presence of dominant sessile invertebrate fauna as well as benthic/demersal fish species.\n\nThis record describes and provides data access to the fine-scale substratum mapping extracted from the combination of multibeam bathymetry and video ground-truthing data. Access to the (1) bathymetry survey data; and (2) annotated seafloor imagery, are provided through the 'Download and Links' section of this record."}
- {"title":"Habitat Map for Lizard Island reef, Australia derived from a photo-transect survey field data collected in December 2011 and September/October 2012","recordAbstract":"An object based image analysis approach (OBIA) was used to create a habitat map of Lizard Island reef, Queensland.\n\nGeoreferenced dive and snorkel photo-transect surveys were conducted at different locations surrounding Lizard Island. Dominant benthic or substrate cover type was assigned to each photo by placing 24 points random over each image. Each point was then assigned a dominant cover type using a benthic cover type classification scheme containing nine first-level categories - seagrass high (>=70%), seagrass moderate (40-70%), seagrass low (<= 30%), coral, reef matrix, algae, rubble, rock and sand.\n\nThe OBIA class assignment followed a hierarchical assignment based on membership rules with levels for \"reef\", \"geomorphic zone\" and \"benthic community\" (above).\n\nThis record contains a snapshot of the data taken for use in Seamap Australia (a national benthic habitat map; https://seamapaustralia.org). View the original record at: https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.864209"}
- {"title":"Reefs and shoals - Queensland","recordAbstract":"This dataset displays the reefs and shoals within Queensland maritime waters.\n\nNames have been sourced from numerous locations and attributes within the data describe the source of the names. Name sources include but not limited to:\n- Queensland Place Names Database\n- Great Barrier Reef Base Mapping\n- Geoscience Australia 1:100000 Topographic Mapping"}
- {"title":"Great Sandy Marine Park benthic habitat 2019","recordAbstract":"An indicative map of the various benthic (sea floor) habitats that occur in the Great Sandy Marine Park (GSMP) was developed in 2019 to support a comprehensive review of the GSMP zoning plan and day to day management of the marine park. GSMP is a Queensland state marine park that extends from Baffle Creek in the north to Double Island Point in the south and includes the tidal waters of Hervey Bay, the Great Sandy Strait and Tin Can Bay and waters seaward to three nautical miles.\n\nThe habitat map was the outcome of a benthic habitat mapping project in the initial stages of the zoning plan review, that applied the Queensland intertidal and subtidal ecosystem classification scheme to identify and map the marine park’s habitat types.\n\nThe marine park’s habitat types were derived from “The intertidal and subtidal habitat mapping for Central Queensland” dataset which provides seascape scale ecosystem mapping for Central Queensland state waters extending from the mouth of the Fitzroy River down to Double Island Point. Each ecosystem type is based on information about eight biophysical attributes that drive ecosystem type: benthic depth, inundation, energy magnitude, consolidation, substrate composition, sediment texture, terrain morphology and structural macrobiota. For further information about this dataset see the Wetlandinfo website https://wetlandinfo.des.qld.gov.au/wetlands/\n\nAn expert panel was convened to assist GSMP project staff in identifying a broad list of ecological attributes or characteristics and the different combinations of these, that would most likely determine the types of benthic habitats likely to occur in GSMP. These were further refined to identify marine park habitat types specifically for marine park management. The final marine park typology and map of 23 habitat types, was refined throughout the zoning plan review process due to newly available data, expert input and local knowledge.\n\nView the original metadata record at https://qldspatial.information.qld.gov.au/catalogue/custom/viewMetadataDetails.page?uuid=%7BCA73B01A-1391-4701-98CB-B72E5FB54845%7D"}
- {"title":"SeaMap Tasmania benthic habitat map","recordAbstract":"The SeaMap Tasmania project undertook mapping of seafloor habitats across the nearshore Tasmanian coastline (0-40 m) - the first state to compile a statewide asssimilated benthic habitat dataset.\n\nThis initiative comprised of collating aerial photography (from archives), acoustic mapping, and conducting underwater video surveys and field-based visual observations. From this, 1:25,0000 scale habitat maps were created for shallow coastal water to within 1.5 km of the coastline (or 40m depth, which ever was arrived at first).\n\nDepth information was collected via acoustic methods and used to discriminate seafloor habitat type, in combination with scanned aerial photographs and towed video transects providing ground-truthing information. See 'Lineage' section of this record for full methodology and data dictionary.\n\nThis data is also available via the Seamap Australia National Benthic Habitat Layer - a nationally consolidated benthic habitat map.\nhttps://metadata.imas.utas.edu.au/geonetwork/srv/eng/catalog.search#/metadata/4739e4b0-4dba-4ec5-b658-02c09f27ab9a"}
- {"title":"2003 Habitat Maps derived from Grey Nurse Shark (GNS) Project of Wolf Rock, Double Island Point, Queensland, Australia","recordAbstract":"Surveying habitats critical to the survival of grey nurse sharks in South-East Queensland has mapped critical habitats, gathered species inventories and developed protocols for ecological monitoring of critical habitats in southern Queensland. This information has assisted stakeholders with habitat definition and effective management. In 2002 members of UniDive applied successfully for World Wide Fund for Nature, Threatened Species Network funds to map the critical Grey Nurse Shark Habitats in south east Queensland.\n\nUniDive members used the funding to survey, from the boats of local dive operators, Wolf Rock at Double Island Point, Gotham, Cherub's Cave, Henderson's Rock and China Wall at North Moreton and Flat Rock at Point Look Out during 2002 and 2003. These sites are situated along the south east Queensland coast and are known to be key Grey Nurse Shark aggregation sites.\n\nDuring the project UniDive members were trained in mapping and survey techniques that include identification of fish, invertebrates and substrate types. Training was conducted by experts from the University of Queensland (Centre of Marine Studies, Biophysical Remote Sensing) and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service who are also UniDive members. The monitoring methods (see methods) are based upon results of the UniDive Coastcare project from 2002, the international established Reef Check program and research conducted by Biophysical Remote Sensing and the Centre of Marine Studies.\n\nThis record describes the digitised habitat features for Wolf Rock. View the original metadata record at https://doi.pangaea.de/10.1594/PANGAEA.864211 for the full data collection."}
- {"title":"Moreton Bay broadscale habitats 2008","recordAbstract":"Broadscale habitat types identified within the Moreton Bay Marine Park as part of the 2007 zoning review (see lineage for full details of study)."}
- {"title":"Mapping of temperate subtidal seagrass beds in Tayaritja Sea Country (Furneaux Group of Islands), Lutruwita (Tasmania)","recordAbstract":"***This record contains a subset of benthic habitat data from https://doi.org/10.25959/E4S6-GE74 (NESP MaC Project 3.6) rehosted for the purposes of the Seamap Australia collaborative project.***\n\nSeagrass beds are a dominant marine ecosystem of Tayaritja (the Furneaux Group of Islands) in the north-eastern waters off Tasmania. Historical coarse mapping has indicated extensive beds of Posidonia, Amphibolis, Heterozostera, and Zostera species, potentially comprising some of the largest and deepest seagrass extents found in temperate Australian waters. However, limited data on the distribution and ecological value of these seagrass habitats represents a significant knowledge gap in understanding Australia's wetland natural assets.\n\nThis project mapped the extent, ecological composition, population structure, and blue carbon value of seagrass beds around Tayaritja, in partnership with the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, as part of NESP Marine and Coastal Hub Project 3.6. The study area focused on the coastal waters surrounding Flinders Island in the western Furneaux Group, with mapping extending from the high tide line to the depth limit of reliable optical detection (approximately 30 m), based on analysis of field data and satellite imagery capabilities in the region. This metadata record specifically describes the benthic mapping component of the study.\n\nA combination of close-range remote sensing methods was used to map the extent and ecological values of seagrass beds. High-resolution satellite imagery from Sentinel-2 (10 m) sensors, combined with bathymetric LiDAR data and oceanographic variables, was used to map baseline seagrass extent and composition. A field campaign deployed a Benthic Observation Survey System (BOSS) and unBaited Remote Underwater stereo-Video system (stereo-uBRUV) at approximately 400 locations to validate remote sensing outputs, collecting field photo quadrats and rhizome cores. From these data, maps were produced showing the extent and coverage of seagrass, sand, and macroalgae, and where possible, seagrass species composition, subject to water depth and clarity constraints.\n\nSee the \"Lineage\" section of this record for full methodology."}
- {"title":"Australian Coastal Waterways geomorphic habitat mapping (national aggregated product)","recordAbstract":"This record describes a single aggregated dataset of the geomorphic habitat environment (facies) for Australia's 7 states and territories: New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland, Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia. The classification system contains 12 easily identifiable and representative environments: Barrier/back-barrier, Bedrock, Central Basin, Channel, Coral, Flood- and Ebb-tide Delta, Fluvial (bay-head) Delta, Intertidal Flats, Mangrove, Rocky Reef, Saltmarsh/Saltflat, Tidal Sand Banks (and Unassigned). These types represent habitats found across all coastal systems in Australia.\n\nFor the New South Wales region, 134 coastal waterways are described. Most of the estuaries of New South Wales are under intense land use pressure with approximately 80% of the State's population living near an estuary (NSW Dept of Land and Water Conservation)\nFor the Victorian region, 54 coastal waterways are described. Most of the 54 coastal waterways have a \"Modified\" environmental condition (as opposed to \"Near Pristine\"), according to the National Land and Water Resources Audit definition.\nFor the Tasmanian region, 88 coastal waterways are described. The majority of near pristine estuaries in Tasmania are located in the south and west of the State and on Cape Barren Island, according to the Department of Primary Industries, Water and Environment.\nFor the Queensland region, 213 coastal waterways are described. Southern and central Great Barrier Reef lagoon coasts have a broad spectrum of river, tide and wave- dominated estuaries.\nFor the Northern Territory region, 63 coastal waterways are described. Estuaries on the northern Arnhem Land, Gulf of Carpentaria coasts are predominantly tide-dominated estuaries, which vary greatly in size and floodplain characteristics.\nFor the South Australia region, 36 coastal waterways are described. Most of the 36 coastal waterways have a \"Modified\" environmental condition (as opposed to \"Near Pristine\"), according to the National Land and Water Resources Audit definition.\nFor the Western Australia region, 103 coastal waterways are described. Western Australia has a diverse range of Estuaries due to different climates. Ranging from mostly \"near pristine\" and tide influenced estuaries in the north to \"near pristine\" wave dominated estuaries in the southwest region."}
- {"title":"Nearshore marine habitat mapping of the Norfolk Marine Park","recordAbstract":"Parks Australia - Our Marine Parks Grants Round 2 Project: Nearshore marine habitat mapping of the Norfolk Marine Park (Grant Activity ID: 4-FIZ391E)\n\nThe Norfolk Marine Park is the is the eastern-most Park in the Temperate East Network of Australian Marine Parks, located between the NSW coast and Norfolk Island. The Park encompasses 188,444 km² of ocean and ranges in depth from 0 m at the Norfolk Island high tide mark to more than 5,00 m off the edge of the Norfolk Ridge. The Park includes two key ecological features – the Norfolk Ridge, and the Tasman Front and associated eddy field – both of which are valued for their high productivity, aggregations of marine life, biodiversity, and endemism. Norfolk Marine Park supports a range of species, including those listed as threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act (1999), and contains Biologically Important Areas for breeding, foraging, and migration of seabirds, marine turtles, and humpback whales.\n\nThe objective of this project was to create the first marine habitat map for the nearshore shallow water surrounding Norfolk, Nepean, and Phillip Islands. This was conducted in collaboration with Norfolk residents to provide local knowledge input and to ground-truth the remotely-sensed habitat mapping. This high-level habitat map will be used for planning purposes, development applications, and EPBC Act referrals within the nearshore waters of the Norfolk Marine Park, where no specific zoning for recreational and commercial activities currently exists. The map provides a basis for any ongoing citizen-science-driven marine habitat impact and condition assessments, ecosystem monitoring, and to provide the Norfolk Island residents with ownership of any future zoning planning. The map can be further refined as more detailed information becomes available from subject matter experts in the future."}
- {"title":"Ludmilla Creek Vegetation Survey","recordAbstract":"This is a high resolution survey (1:5,000 scale dataset) describing mapped vegetation communities for the Ludmilla Creek catchment area (within the City of Darwin, Northern Territory).\n(Vegetation Unit - A reasonably homogeneous part of the land surface, distinct from surrounding terrain with constant properties in landform and vegetation)\n\nThis vegetation survey was undertaken in 1996. This dataset represents the vegetation on the ground at the time of the survey and reflects the data and methods used to create the mapped polygons. The dataset has been revised in 2015 to include community descriptions but has not been updated to reflect the vegetation on the ground. The Darwin Remnant Vegetation Survey is considered a more up-to-date representation of vegetation for this area."}
