Benthic Cover and Habitat Mapping

EO Mapping Services

Introduction

EOMAP can map, classify and quantify the seafloor in shallow waters. Our benthic cover and habitat mapping methods are based on our value-added processing chain, which removes the distorting effects of the atmosphere, water surface and water column from the satellite imagery. This allows us an unbiased and focused view of the seafloor over vast areas, contrary to spotty data collected through diving transects. Together with our spectral databases and the expert knowledge of our image analysts, we turn satellite data into valuable and ready-to-use information on the nature of the seafloor. With our benthic cover and habitat mapping procedures, we can supply information for extended areas, significantly minimising or even completely avoiding time-consuming and risky on-site surveys, and even explore changes over time.

Advantages at a glance

  • Improve on-site diving and sampling strategies.
  • Reduce or avoid time intensive on-site data collection.
  • Access up-to date spatial data.
  • Access development of seafloor and benthic habitats for the last 20 years.

Request a Demo

A Seafloor Classification demonstration dataset based on 2m resolution multispectral satellite data can be accessed using the form below. Please fill in your name and e-mail address and submit your request. A download link will be provided by e-mail.

    Please also use our inquiry form to enquire further information about our products and how to purchase them.

    FAQ

    How can I request information for a specific site?
    Simply send your area of interest in digital format to our shallow water team or use our contact form. You’ll receive appropriate feedback within 24hours.

    What makes EOMAP’s service unique? Why does EOMAP’s data service stand out?
    EOMAP’s seafloor classification services have been widely used and validated in practice. Our clients acknowledge and benefit from the quality of our data, our extensive background knowledge and high level of service readiness.

    What is the maximum mapping depth and how can I access it?
    The maximum water depth mapped by SDB is similar to the maximum penetration depth of sunlight. Since this varies by season and location, a global depth statement is not appropriate. The following mapping depths have been analysed: Red Sea (20–30 m), Gulf region (5–15 m from north to south), Mediterranean Sea (20–30 m), Baltic Sea (2–15 m from north to south), Caribbean Sea (20–30 m), US West Coast (5–15 m), Pacific region (20–30 m).

    What are the thematic mapping accuracies?
    Mapping accuracies typically vary with the detail of the classification schema and seafloor complexity. Typically, our clients have validated our seafloor classification data with drop-down cameras and diving transects to be in the range of 85-90% accuracy.

    Which  the thematic classes can be mapped?
    The thematic complexity of our classifications strongly depends on the area of interest, the desired spatial resolution, the available in-situ data (potentially provided by the client) and the client’s requirements. Standard thematic classes include coral, hardbottom, sand, different densities of seagrass canopy, macroalgae or man-made features. Simply send us information on the classes you are interested in and we will check their feasibility in your area of interest.

    What are the delivery formats?
    The default file types for our seafloor classification data are vector shapefiles, which come with a PDF map and metadata. If you require grids or other formats, we can convert it on request.