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Benthic Habitat Mapping
Spatial Data
Mapping Information
Project Planning
Mapping Techniques
Analyzing Benthic Data
Applying Benthic Data
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Benthic Habitat Mapping

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Mapping Information

Graphic illustrating the multidisciplinary aspects of benthic mapping
Seafloor mapping and benthic habitat mapping are multidisciplinary efforts combining resources and analysis techniques from marine geology, marine biology, marine chemistry, and oceanography.
Courtesy: Science Applications International Corporation

Benthic habitat mapping is a multidisciplinary task that combines physical (geological), biological, oceanographic, and chemical components of the seafloor. Data on substrate type, topography, biological species, oxygen concentration, and presence or absence of toxins are all necessary to create an accurate picture of a habitat.

Since no single mapping effort provides a comprehensive picture, effective mapping requires the ability to integrate, analyze, and interpret several different types of data. 

The following sections provide information on project planning, descriptions of various mapping techniques, discussions on analyzing benthic data, classifying habitats, and detailed case studies applying benthic mapping to various coastal management issues.

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