The USGS uses a variety of survey tools—including personal watercraft (jet skis) equipped with GPS and sonar—to measure how sandy coastlines change over time. Sandy coastlines are a valuable resource that protect human-made structures from waves, serve as habitat for important species, and provide a variety of recreational opportunities.
Mapping the Seafloor
Sea Floor Mapping Group
California Seafloor Mapping Program
Coastal National Elevation Database (CoNED) Applications Project
Geologic Mapping of the Massachusetts Seafloor
Sediment Mobility Research
Cascadia Subduction Zone Marine Geohazards
Exploring the Unknown in the Deep North Atlantic Ocean
The seafloor has distinct features and characteristics that help us better understand Earth’s current and past conditions, potential resources, and natural hazards. However, less than 10% of the seafloor has been mapped globally. The USGS conducts high-resolution mapping to describe the physical features of the ocean floor, as well as the geologic layers and structure beneath it.
What's on the seafloor?
The ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth’ surface, yet only a small part of the seafloor has been mapped with enough detail to understand the basic structure, risks, and living and mineral resources that exist there. Characterizing the ocean floor expands our ability to better understand large scale Earth processes along with improved knowledge about the seafloor, deep sea minerals and associated ecosystems. Through this process we can build a more complete view of Earth history, begin to recognize changes, and provide predictions about how the seafloor, underwater environments, and marine geohazards may change in the future.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Technology and Innovation in Seafloor Mapping
Just like the Earth’s land surface, the seafloor contains significant geological and biological features. Geological features include mountains, canyons, plateaus, ledges, and submarine volcanoes, all of which have variable substrate that can range from rocky outcrops to extensive muddy plains, sand ripples, and giant sediment fans along with chemical seeps. Visit the Ocean 101 page to learn more. View a slideshow featuring thickets of coral reefs, sponges, mussels, and the many wondrous creatures that live and move among them.
The USGS designs mapping research programs to address a wide range of topics, and to expand our understanding of deep sea minerals, offshore energy, marine biological habitats, hazards, and more. The USGS uses acoustic techniques to collect detailed information about the seafloor, such as its shape, sediment composition and distribution, and underlying geologic structure and sediment type. Seafloor video, photographs, sediment cores, and other samples are also collected to validate the acoustics and provide a comprehensive foundation for studies of sediment and contaminant transport, landslide and tsunami hazards, gas hydrates, methane and carbon flux, benthic habitat quality, and sediment availability. Managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders use the map products derived from these studies to make informed decisions regarding the Nation’s safety and economic prosperity.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
USGS Role in Seafloor Mapping
From habitats to hazards, here are some examples of USGS seafloor mapping efforts.
Media
As part of the National Strategy for Ocean Mapping, Exploration, and Characterization (NOMEC) initiative, USGS is helping to guide strategic planning, determining priority areas for ocean mapping and characterization, and collecting data and information to better understand the functions and ecological balance of deep-sea environments. The White House Ocean Science and Technology Subcommittee released the NOMEC Strategy in June 2020 to coordinate mapping, exploration, and characterization activities across federal agencies. Check out USGS mapping efforts along the Atlantic margin and Pacific margin.
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Media
USGS maps the seafloor to identify and characterize habitats such as mesophotic coral ecosystems, deepwater coral ecosystems, deep-ocean environments, and more.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
USGS seafloor mapping efforts help identify potential hazards like subduction zones where earthquakes could occur and trigger tsunamis, and areas of resource interest such as mineral deposits and areas for offshore wind energy.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Mapping the Continental Shelf
The USGS maps continental shelf areas to understand coastal system evolution, from sediment transport to habitat use. Through marine geologic mapping and characterization of inner continental shelf areas, USGS science expands understanding of coastal vulnerability, sediment sources, transport pathways, habitat type and ecosystem characteristics. These activities advance the research and technology essential to coastal evolution and environmental change science while also supporting state and national partners in managing coastal and marine resources and related decisions.
Media
The Delmarva Peninsula is a 220-kilometer-long headland, spit, and barrier island complex that was significantly affected by Hurricane Sandy. To better constrain controls on coastal vulnerability and evolution, the region’s sediment sources, transport pathways and sediment sinks must be identified. This project defines the geologic framework of the Delmarva coastal system through geophysical mapping of the inner continental shelf. Learn more
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) is conducting geologic mapping of the sea floor of the Massachusetts inner continental shelf to characterize the surface and shallow subsurface geologic framework within the Massachusetts coastal zone. The overall goal of this project is to determine the geologic framework of the sea floor within the Massachusetts coastal zone, using high-resolution geophysical techniques, sediment sampling, and sea floor photography. Learn more
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
The California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP) is a cooperative program to create a comprehensive coastal and marine geologic and habitat base map series for all of California's State waters. The CSMP has collected bathymetry (underwater topography) and backscatter data (providing insight into the geologic makeup of the seafloor) that are being turned into habitat and geologic base maps for all of California's State Waters (mean high water line out to three nautical miles). Learn more
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Mapping Beyond the Continental Shelf
Mapping of seafloor and geologic structure beyond the continental shelf is foundational to enhancing stewardship of natural resources, promoting economic prosperity, and strengthening the nation’s security.
Media
According to Article 76 of the Convention on the Law of the Sea, the United States may extend its offshore seafloor domain beyond 200 M when certain criteria are met. The U.S. has an inherent interest in knowing the full extent of its ECS so that it can better protect, manage, and/or use the resources contained therein. USGS is committed to maintaining and applying state-of-the art ocean technology to increase understanding of earth history, document potential marine hazards, and identify U.S. ocean resources. Learn more.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
USGS combines expertise in mapping from the continental land mass to deep offshore areas including the continental slope, rise and abyssal plain. These mapping products inform science related to natural hazards, resource management and legal authorities regarding international boundaries.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Science
Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies
Working in partnership with BOEM and the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, scientists from the USGS will embark on a 10-day voyage to the outer limits of the U.S. Pacific waters south of Hawai’i to conduct seafloor mapping and autonomous environmental DNA sampling in order to investigate and characterize the geology and biology of the Hawaiian abyssal plain.
Delineating the U.S. Extended Continental Shelf
The United States has an interest in knowing the full extent of its continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles from shore (called the extended continental shelf, or ECS) so that it can better protect, manage and use the resources of the seabed and subsoil contained therein. The USGS contributes to the ECS effort through membership and leadership on the interagency U.S. ECS Task Force, a group...
USGS Law of the Sea
The USGS Law of the Sea project helps to determine the outer limits of the extended continental shelf (ECS) of the United States. The ECS is that portion of the continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles. It is an important maritime zone that holds many resources and vital habitats for marine life. Its size may exceed one million square kilometers, encompassing areas in the Arctic, Atlantic...
SQUID-5 camera system
The SQUID-5 is a Structure-from-Motion Quantitative Underwater Imaging Device with 5 cameras.
Cascadia Subduction Zone Marine Geohazards
Societal Issue: Uncertainty related to rupture extent, slip distribution, and recurrence of past subduction megathrust earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest (northern CA, OR, WA, and southern BC) leads to ambiguity in earthquake and tsunami hazard assessments and hinders our ability to prepare for future events.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, 3-D CT Core Imaging Laboratory, Core Preparation and Analysis Laboratory and Sample Repositories, Multi-Sensor Core Logger Laboratory, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization, Subduction Zone Science
Multimedia
Jet Ski Bathymetric Surveying
The USGS uses a variety of survey tools—including personal watercraft (jet skis) equipped with GPS and sonar—to measure how sandy coastlines change over time. Sandy coastlines are a valuable resource that protect human-made structures from waves, serve as habitat for important species, and provide a variety of recreational opportunities.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows various types and conditions of corals, including sea fan corals (Gorgonia) in the center.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows various types and conditions of corals, including sea fan corals (Gorgonia) in the center.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows a sea fan coral (Gorgonia) in the center, surrounded other corals and fishes.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows a sea fan coral (Gorgonia) in the center, surrounded other corals and fishes.
What is Bathymetry?
Bathymetry is the science of measuring the depth of water in ocean, river and lake environments. Learn how USGS measures bathymetry in this video by the St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, originally created for the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Bathymetry is the science of measuring the depth of water in ocean, river and lake environments. Learn how USGS measures bathymetry in this video by the St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, originally created for the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
R/V Sallenger tows SQUID-5
The R/V Sallenger tows the SQUID-5 over Looe Key reef with a NOAA Sanctuary boat in the background patrolling the Looe Key area to warn recreational vessels of the ongoing research activity.
The R/V Sallenger tows the SQUID-5 over Looe Key reef with a NOAA Sanctuary boat in the background patrolling the Looe Key area to warn recreational vessels of the ongoing research activity.
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coral
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coralRemotely operated vehicle Deep Discoverer surveys a large boulder covered in bamboo corals during the 2021 North Atlantic Stepping Stones expedition. Bamboo corals were locally abundant on these large boulders and more spread out throughout different hard-bottom habitats.
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coral
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coralRemotely operated vehicle Deep Discoverer surveys a large boulder covered in bamboo corals during the 2021 North Atlantic Stepping Stones expedition. Bamboo corals were locally abundant on these large boulders and more spread out throughout different hard-bottom habitats.
NOAA-USGS Stepping Stones 2021 Expedition
Join USGS researchers Jason Chaytor and Kira Mizell as they virtually participate in a NOAA Ocean Exploration expedition to the depths of the North Atlantic.
Join USGS researchers Jason Chaytor and Kira Mizell as they virtually participate in a NOAA Ocean Exploration expedition to the depths of the North Atlantic.
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida Keys
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida KeysThe USGS Coral Reef Ecosystems Studies project provides science that helps resource managers tasked with the stewardship of coral reef resources.
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida Keys
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida KeysThe USGS Coral Reef Ecosystems Studies project provides science that helps resource managers tasked with the stewardship of coral reef resources.
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National Park
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National ParkThe U.S. Geological Survey is conducting research to guide the restoration and recovery of the threatened elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, in Dry Tortugas National Park and throughout the western Atlantic. In this photograph, research marine biologist Ilsa Kuffner is doing maintenance on a USGS “calcification station”.
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National Park
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National ParkThe U.S. Geological Survey is conducting research to guide the restoration and recovery of the threatened elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, in Dry Tortugas National Park and throughout the western Atlantic. In this photograph, research marine biologist Ilsa Kuffner is doing maintenance on a USGS “calcification station”.
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Deepwater Canyons 2013
Close-up of a crinoid attached to bubblegum coral (Paragorgia). The coral’s polyps are extended in feeding position. Both animals capture small organisms and organic matter in the water column as it drifts by. Image courtesy of Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Close-up of a crinoid attached to bubblegum coral (Paragorgia). The coral’s polyps are extended in feeding position. Both animals capture small organisms and organic matter in the water column as it drifts by. Image courtesy of Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic Ocean
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic OceanA lithodid crab seen on a bed of deep sea mussels living near a gas seep 1,600 meters below the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic Ocean
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic OceanA lithodid crab seen on a bed of deep sea mussels living near a gas seep 1,600 meters below the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep Sea Rockling Fish Among Mussels
A species of rockling (Family Lotidae), related to hakes and cods, rests among the mussels. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
A species of rockling (Family Lotidae), related to hakes and cods, rests among the mussels. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
ROC Sampling Deep Sea Urchin
Images of the remotely operated vehicle Jason2 sampling a sea urchin in a deep sea mussel community found near a gas seep on the U.S. outer continental shelf. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Images of the remotely operated vehicle Jason2 sampling a sea urchin in a deep sea mussel community found near a gas seep on the U.S. outer continental shelf. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep-Sea Cold Water Coral
A black-bellied rosefish (Helicolenus dactylopterus) peaks out of the Lophelia coral. Behind the fish, a squat lobster (Eumunida picta) hangs upside down from a coral branch.
A black-bellied rosefish (Helicolenus dactylopterus) peaks out of the Lophelia coral. Behind the fish, a squat lobster (Eumunida picta) hangs upside down from a coral branch.
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledge
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledgeA large deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky carbonate ledge, surrounded by soft sediment and live seep mussels.
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledge
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledgeA large deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky carbonate ledge, surrounded by soft sediment and live seep mussels.
Deepwater Canyons 2012
USGS scientist Nancy Prouty collects samples from the CTD.
USGS scientist Nancy Prouty collects samples from the CTD.
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine PreserveA healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve off Tumon, Guam, showing a number of different species of fish swimming over a high coral cover reef composed of a number of hard and soft coral species.
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine PreserveA healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve off Tumon, Guam, showing a number of different species of fish swimming over a high coral cover reef composed of a number of hard and soft coral species.
Seafloor characterization map
Oblique onshore view of sea floor characterization map off Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site and Kawaihae Harbor, Hawaiʻi.
Oblique onshore view of sea floor characterization map off Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site and Kawaihae Harbor, Hawaiʻi.
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental Shelf
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental ShelfAmerican and Canadian scientists head north on a collaborative expedition to map the Arctic seafloor and gather data to help define the outer limits of the continental shelf. Each coastal nation may exercise sovereign rights over the natural resources of their continental shelf.
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental Shelf
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental ShelfAmerican and Canadian scientists head north on a collaborative expedition to map the Arctic seafloor and gather data to help define the outer limits of the continental shelf. Each coastal nation may exercise sovereign rights over the natural resources of their continental shelf.
Fire Sponge (Tedania ignis)
Bright red Fire Sponges (Tedania ignis) can cause severe reactions if touched.
Bright red Fire Sponges (Tedania ignis) can cause severe reactions if touched.
Fish on seafloor, Offshore Northern California
A kelp greenling fish swimming above a seafloor of mixed gravel, cobble and rock outcrop with scattered shell. Fish is approx. 20 cm (8 inches) long. Image acquired 1 km (0.62 miles) offshore Half Moon Bay, California at a depth of 14 meters (46 ft). Also in the image are encrusting sponges, red algae (seaweed), and orange cup corals.
A kelp greenling fish swimming above a seafloor of mixed gravel, cobble and rock outcrop with scattered shell. Fish is approx. 20 cm (8 inches) long. Image acquired 1 km (0.62 miles) offshore Half Moon Bay, California at a depth of 14 meters (46 ft). Also in the image are encrusting sponges, red algae (seaweed), and orange cup corals.
Sea Stars Underwater Offshore Northern California
Three sea stars on a rock, surrounded by a sandy seafloor littered with broken shells. Each sea star is approx. 10 - 15 cm (4-6 inches) across. Image acquired 4.5 km (3 miles) offshore Pigeon Point, southern San Mateo County, California at a depth of 52 meters.
Three sea stars on a rock, surrounded by a sandy seafloor littered with broken shells. Each sea star is approx. 10 - 15 cm (4-6 inches) across. Image acquired 4.5 km (3 miles) offshore Pigeon Point, southern San Mateo County, California at a depth of 52 meters.
Massachusetts Seafloor
This photograph is of the seafloor off the Massachusetts coast and shows a lobster as well as boulders and sediment covered in seaweed, bubblegum algae and red filamentous algae.
This photograph is of the seafloor off the Massachusetts coast and shows a lobster as well as boulders and sediment covered in seaweed, bubblegum algae and red filamentous algae.
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian Ocean
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian OceanThis image shows gas hydrates (the white material) in marine sediments from a test well drilled in the Indian Ocean in 2006 during the Indian National Gas Hydrate Program (NGHP) Expedition 01.
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian Ocean
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian OceanThis image shows gas hydrates (the white material) in marine sediments from a test well drilled in the Indian Ocean in 2006 during the Indian National Gas Hydrate Program (NGHP) Expedition 01.
Multibeam bathymetry of San Francisco Bay
A multibeam bathymetric survey that produced unprecedented high resolution images of the mouth of San Francisco Bay was conducted in 2004 and 2005.
A multibeam bathymetric survey that produced unprecedented high resolution images of the mouth of San Francisco Bay was conducted in 2004 and 2005.
Seafloor map of Puerto Rico Trench
A NOAA image of the bathymetry north of Puerto Rico. Two ancient submarine landslides are visible as head scarps (labeled Loiza and Arecibo Amphitheaters). Seafloor fissures are indicated by black arrows, and dashed lines outline debris flows from past failures. Map annotated by Uri ten Brink, USGS
A NOAA image of the bathymetry north of Puerto Rico. Two ancient submarine landslides are visible as head scarps (labeled Loiza and Arecibo Amphitheaters). Seafloor fissures are indicated by black arrows, and dashed lines outline debris flows from past failures. Map annotated by Uri ten Brink, USGS
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquakeVertical movement of the seafloor over the 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake, view to the northwest, water removed
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquakeVertical movement of the seafloor over the 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake, view to the northwest, water removed
Deep-Sea, Cold Water Coral
Coral reef off the Florida Keys.
Coral reef off the Florida Keys.
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072, “Landslide Types and Processes.”
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072, “Landslide Types and Processes.”
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean SeaPerspective view of the seafloor of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean SeaPerspective view of the seafloor of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
The seafloor has distinct features and characteristics that help us better understand Earth’s current and past conditions, potential resources, and natural hazards. However, less than 10% of the seafloor has been mapped globally. The USGS conducts high-resolution mapping to describe the physical features of the ocean floor, as well as the geologic layers and structure beneath it.
What's on the seafloor?
The ocean covers more than 70% of the Earth’ surface, yet only a small part of the seafloor has been mapped with enough detail to understand the basic structure, risks, and living and mineral resources that exist there. Characterizing the ocean floor expands our ability to better understand large scale Earth processes along with improved knowledge about the seafloor, deep sea minerals and associated ecosystems. Through this process we can build a more complete view of Earth history, begin to recognize changes, and provide predictions about how the seafloor, underwater environments, and marine geohazards may change in the future.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Technology and Innovation in Seafloor Mapping
Just like the Earth’s land surface, the seafloor contains significant geological and biological features. Geological features include mountains, canyons, plateaus, ledges, and submarine volcanoes, all of which have variable substrate that can range from rocky outcrops to extensive muddy plains, sand ripples, and giant sediment fans along with chemical seeps. Visit the Ocean 101 page to learn more. View a slideshow featuring thickets of coral reefs, sponges, mussels, and the many wondrous creatures that live and move among them.
The USGS designs mapping research programs to address a wide range of topics, and to expand our understanding of deep sea minerals, offshore energy, marine biological habitats, hazards, and more. The USGS uses acoustic techniques to collect detailed information about the seafloor, such as its shape, sediment composition and distribution, and underlying geologic structure and sediment type. Seafloor video, photographs, sediment cores, and other samples are also collected to validate the acoustics and provide a comprehensive foundation for studies of sediment and contaminant transport, landslide and tsunami hazards, gas hydrates, methane and carbon flux, benthic habitat quality, and sediment availability. Managers, policymakers, and other stakeholders use the map products derived from these studies to make informed decisions regarding the Nation’s safety and economic prosperity.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
USGS Role in Seafloor Mapping
From habitats to hazards, here are some examples of USGS seafloor mapping efforts.
Media
As part of the National Strategy for Ocean Mapping, Exploration, and Characterization (NOMEC) initiative, USGS is helping to guide strategic planning, determining priority areas for ocean mapping and characterization, and collecting data and information to better understand the functions and ecological balance of deep-sea environments. The White House Ocean Science and Technology Subcommittee released the NOMEC Strategy in June 2020 to coordinate mapping, exploration, and characterization activities across federal agencies. Check out USGS mapping efforts along the Atlantic margin and Pacific margin.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
USGS maps the seafloor to identify and characterize habitats such as mesophotic coral ecosystems, deepwater coral ecosystems, deep-ocean environments, and more.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
USGS seafloor mapping efforts help identify potential hazards like subduction zones where earthquakes could occur and trigger tsunamis, and areas of resource interest such as mineral deposits and areas for offshore wind energy.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Mapping the Continental Shelf
The USGS maps continental shelf areas to understand coastal system evolution, from sediment transport to habitat use. Through marine geologic mapping and characterization of inner continental shelf areas, USGS science expands understanding of coastal vulnerability, sediment sources, transport pathways, habitat type and ecosystem characteristics. These activities advance the research and technology essential to coastal evolution and environmental change science while also supporting state and national partners in managing coastal and marine resources and related decisions.
Media
The Delmarva Peninsula is a 220-kilometer-long headland, spit, and barrier island complex that was significantly affected by Hurricane Sandy. To better constrain controls on coastal vulnerability and evolution, the region’s sediment sources, transport pathways and sediment sinks must be identified. This project defines the geologic framework of the Delmarva coastal system through geophysical mapping of the inner continental shelf. Learn more
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) is conducting geologic mapping of the sea floor of the Massachusetts inner continental shelf to characterize the surface and shallow subsurface geologic framework within the Massachusetts coastal zone. The overall goal of this project is to determine the geologic framework of the sea floor within the Massachusetts coastal zone, using high-resolution geophysical techniques, sediment sampling, and sea floor photography. Learn more
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
The California Seafloor Mapping Program (CSMP) is a cooperative program to create a comprehensive coastal and marine geologic and habitat base map series for all of California's State waters. The CSMP has collected bathymetry (underwater topography) and backscatter data (providing insight into the geologic makeup of the seafloor) that are being turned into habitat and geologic base maps for all of California's State Waters (mean high water line out to three nautical miles). Learn more
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Mapping Beyond the Continental Shelf
Mapping of seafloor and geologic structure beyond the continental shelf is foundational to enhancing stewardship of natural resources, promoting economic prosperity, and strengthening the nation’s security.
Media
According to Article 76 of the Convention on the Law of the Sea, the United States may extend its offshore seafloor domain beyond 200 M when certain criteria are met. The U.S. has an inherent interest in knowing the full extent of its ECS so that it can better protect, manage, and/or use the resources contained therein. USGS is committed to maintaining and applying state-of-the art ocean technology to increase understanding of earth history, document potential marine hazards, and identify U.S. ocean resources. Learn more.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Media
USGS combines expertise in mapping from the continental land mass to deep offshore areas including the continental slope, rise and abyssal plain. These mapping products inform science related to natural hazards, resource management and legal authorities regarding international boundaries.
Sources/Usage: Public Domain. View Media Details
Science
Exploring Biodiversity of the Deep Hawaiian Pacific Ocean with Seafloor Mapping and eDNA Technologies
Working in partnership with BOEM and the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, scientists from the USGS will embark on a 10-day voyage to the outer limits of the U.S. Pacific waters south of Hawai’i to conduct seafloor mapping and autonomous environmental DNA sampling in order to investigate and characterize the geology and biology of the Hawaiian abyssal plain.
Delineating the U.S. Extended Continental Shelf
The United States has an interest in knowing the full extent of its continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles from shore (called the extended continental shelf, or ECS) so that it can better protect, manage and use the resources of the seabed and subsoil contained therein. The USGS contributes to the ECS effort through membership and leadership on the interagency U.S. ECS Task Force, a group...
USGS Law of the Sea
The USGS Law of the Sea project helps to determine the outer limits of the extended continental shelf (ECS) of the United States. The ECS is that portion of the continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles. It is an important maritime zone that holds many resources and vital habitats for marine life. Its size may exceed one million square kilometers, encompassing areas in the Arctic, Atlantic...
SQUID-5 camera system
The SQUID-5 is a Structure-from-Motion Quantitative Underwater Imaging Device with 5 cameras.
Cascadia Subduction Zone Marine Geohazards
Societal Issue: Uncertainty related to rupture extent, slip distribution, and recurrence of past subduction megathrust earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest (northern CA, OR, WA, and southern BC) leads to ambiguity in earthquake and tsunami hazard assessments and hinders our ability to prepare for future events.
By
Natural Hazards Mission Area, Coastal and Marine Hazards and Resources Program, Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center, 3-D CT Core Imaging Laboratory, Core Preparation and Analysis Laboratory and Sample Repositories, Multi-Sensor Core Logger Laboratory, Deep Sea Exploration, Mapping and Characterization, Subduction Zone Science
Multimedia
Jet Ski Bathymetric Surveying
The USGS uses a variety of survey tools—including personal watercraft (jet skis) equipped with GPS and sonar—to measure how sandy coastlines change over time. Sandy coastlines are a valuable resource that protect human-made structures from waves, serve as habitat for important species, and provide a variety of recreational opportunities.
The USGS uses a variety of survey tools—including personal watercraft (jet skis) equipped with GPS and sonar—to measure how sandy coastlines change over time. Sandy coastlines are a valuable resource that protect human-made structures from waves, serve as habitat for important species, and provide a variety of recreational opportunities.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows various types and conditions of corals, including sea fan corals (Gorgonia) in the center.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 1Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows various types and conditions of corals, including sea fan corals (Gorgonia) in the center.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows a sea fan coral (Gorgonia) in the center, surrounded other corals and fishes.
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2
Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas, Puerto Rico, View 2Coral reef in La Parguera, Lajas Puerto Rico shows a sea fan coral (Gorgonia) in the center, surrounded other corals and fishes.
What is Bathymetry?
Bathymetry is the science of measuring the depth of water in ocean, river and lake environments. Learn how USGS measures bathymetry in this video by the St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, originally created for the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
Bathymetry is the science of measuring the depth of water in ocean, river and lake environments. Learn how USGS measures bathymetry in this video by the St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center, originally created for the 2021 virtual St. Petersburg Science Festival.
R/V Sallenger tows SQUID-5
The R/V Sallenger tows the SQUID-5 over Looe Key reef with a NOAA Sanctuary boat in the background patrolling the Looe Key area to warn recreational vessels of the ongoing research activity.
The R/V Sallenger tows the SQUID-5 over Looe Key reef with a NOAA Sanctuary boat in the background patrolling the Looe Key area to warn recreational vessels of the ongoing research activity.
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coral
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coralRemotely operated vehicle Deep Discoverer surveys a large boulder covered in bamboo corals during the 2021 North Atlantic Stepping Stones expedition. Bamboo corals were locally abundant on these large boulders and more spread out throughout different hard-bottom habitats.
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coral
ROV Deep Discoverer surveying boulder covered in bamboo coralRemotely operated vehicle Deep Discoverer surveys a large boulder covered in bamboo corals during the 2021 North Atlantic Stepping Stones expedition. Bamboo corals were locally abundant on these large boulders and more spread out throughout different hard-bottom habitats.
NOAA-USGS Stepping Stones 2021 Expedition
Join USGS researchers Jason Chaytor and Kira Mizell as they virtually participate in a NOAA Ocean Exploration expedition to the depths of the North Atlantic.
Join USGS researchers Jason Chaytor and Kira Mizell as they virtually participate in a NOAA Ocean Exploration expedition to the depths of the North Atlantic.
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida Keys
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida KeysThe USGS Coral Reef Ecosystems Studies project provides science that helps resource managers tasked with the stewardship of coral reef resources.
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida Keys
Map of coral calcification monitoring stations in Florida KeysThe USGS Coral Reef Ecosystems Studies project provides science that helps resource managers tasked with the stewardship of coral reef resources.
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National Park
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National ParkThe U.S. Geological Survey is conducting research to guide the restoration and recovery of the threatened elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, in Dry Tortugas National Park and throughout the western Atlantic. In this photograph, research marine biologist Ilsa Kuffner is doing maintenance on a USGS “calcification station”.
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National Park
Diver visits experimental elkhorn coral in Dry Tortugas National ParkThe U.S. Geological Survey is conducting research to guide the restoration and recovery of the threatened elkhorn coral, Acropora palmata, in Dry Tortugas National Park and throughout the western Atlantic. In this photograph, research marine biologist Ilsa Kuffner is doing maintenance on a USGS “calcification station”.
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Deepwater Canyons 2013
Close-up of a crinoid attached to bubblegum coral (Paragorgia). The coral’s polyps are extended in feeding position. Both animals capture small organisms and organic matter in the water column as it drifts by. Image courtesy of Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Close-up of a crinoid attached to bubblegum coral (Paragorgia). The coral’s polyps are extended in feeding position. Both animals capture small organisms and organic matter in the water column as it drifts by. Image courtesy of Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic Ocean
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic OceanA lithodid crab seen on a bed of deep sea mussels living near a gas seep 1,600 meters below the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic Ocean
Deep Sea Crab on Mussels a Mile Below Atlantic OceanA lithodid crab seen on a bed of deep sea mussels living near a gas seep 1,600 meters below the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep Sea Rockling Fish Among Mussels
A species of rockling (Family Lotidae), related to hakes and cods, rests among the mussels. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
A species of rockling (Family Lotidae), related to hakes and cods, rests among the mussels. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
ROC Sampling Deep Sea Urchin
Images of the remotely operated vehicle Jason2 sampling a sea urchin in a deep sea mussel community found near a gas seep on the U.S. outer continental shelf. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Images of the remotely operated vehicle Jason2 sampling a sea urchin in a deep sea mussel community found near a gas seep on the U.S. outer continental shelf. Images courtesy Deepwater Canyons 2013 - Pathways to the Abyss expedition, NOAA-OER/BOEM/USGS.
Deep-Sea Cold Water Coral
A black-bellied rosefish (Helicolenus dactylopterus) peaks out of the Lophelia coral. Behind the fish, a squat lobster (Eumunida picta) hangs upside down from a coral branch.
A black-bellied rosefish (Helicolenus dactylopterus) peaks out of the Lophelia coral. Behind the fish, a squat lobster (Eumunida picta) hangs upside down from a coral branch.
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledge
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledgeA large deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky carbonate ledge, surrounded by soft sediment and live seep mussels.
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledge
Deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky ledgeA large deep-sea fish called a Cusk (Brosme brosme) sheltering under a rocky carbonate ledge, surrounded by soft sediment and live seep mussels.
Deepwater Canyons 2012
USGS scientist Nancy Prouty collects samples from the CTD.
USGS scientist Nancy Prouty collects samples from the CTD.
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine PreserveA healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve off Tumon, Guam, showing a number of different species of fish swimming over a high coral cover reef composed of a number of hard and soft coral species.
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve
Healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine PreserveA healthy coral reef in the Tumon Bay Marine Preserve off Tumon, Guam, showing a number of different species of fish swimming over a high coral cover reef composed of a number of hard and soft coral species.
Seafloor characterization map
Oblique onshore view of sea floor characterization map off Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site and Kawaihae Harbor, Hawaiʻi.
Oblique onshore view of sea floor characterization map off Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site and Kawaihae Harbor, Hawaiʻi.
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental Shelf
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental ShelfAmerican and Canadian scientists head north on a collaborative expedition to map the Arctic seafloor and gather data to help define the outer limits of the continental shelf. Each coastal nation may exercise sovereign rights over the natural resources of their continental shelf.
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental Shelf
U.S. - Canada Arctic Expedition Surveying Extended Continental ShelfAmerican and Canadian scientists head north on a collaborative expedition to map the Arctic seafloor and gather data to help define the outer limits of the continental shelf. Each coastal nation may exercise sovereign rights over the natural resources of their continental shelf.
Fire Sponge (Tedania ignis)
Bright red Fire Sponges (Tedania ignis) can cause severe reactions if touched.
Bright red Fire Sponges (Tedania ignis) can cause severe reactions if touched.
Fish on seafloor, Offshore Northern California
A kelp greenling fish swimming above a seafloor of mixed gravel, cobble and rock outcrop with scattered shell. Fish is approx. 20 cm (8 inches) long. Image acquired 1 km (0.62 miles) offshore Half Moon Bay, California at a depth of 14 meters (46 ft). Also in the image are encrusting sponges, red algae (seaweed), and orange cup corals.
A kelp greenling fish swimming above a seafloor of mixed gravel, cobble and rock outcrop with scattered shell. Fish is approx. 20 cm (8 inches) long. Image acquired 1 km (0.62 miles) offshore Half Moon Bay, California at a depth of 14 meters (46 ft). Also in the image are encrusting sponges, red algae (seaweed), and orange cup corals.
Sea Stars Underwater Offshore Northern California
Three sea stars on a rock, surrounded by a sandy seafloor littered with broken shells. Each sea star is approx. 10 - 15 cm (4-6 inches) across. Image acquired 4.5 km (3 miles) offshore Pigeon Point, southern San Mateo County, California at a depth of 52 meters.
Three sea stars on a rock, surrounded by a sandy seafloor littered with broken shells. Each sea star is approx. 10 - 15 cm (4-6 inches) across. Image acquired 4.5 km (3 miles) offshore Pigeon Point, southern San Mateo County, California at a depth of 52 meters.
Massachusetts Seafloor
This photograph is of the seafloor off the Massachusetts coast and shows a lobster as well as boulders and sediment covered in seaweed, bubblegum algae and red filamentous algae.
This photograph is of the seafloor off the Massachusetts coast and shows a lobster as well as boulders and sediment covered in seaweed, bubblegum algae and red filamentous algae.
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian Ocean
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian OceanThis image shows gas hydrates (the white material) in marine sediments from a test well drilled in the Indian Ocean in 2006 during the Indian National Gas Hydrate Program (NGHP) Expedition 01.
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian Ocean
Gas Hydrates in Marine Sediments from the Indian OceanThis image shows gas hydrates (the white material) in marine sediments from a test well drilled in the Indian Ocean in 2006 during the Indian National Gas Hydrate Program (NGHP) Expedition 01.
Multibeam bathymetry of San Francisco Bay
A multibeam bathymetric survey that produced unprecedented high resolution images of the mouth of San Francisco Bay was conducted in 2004 and 2005.
A multibeam bathymetric survey that produced unprecedented high resolution images of the mouth of San Francisco Bay was conducted in 2004 and 2005.
Seafloor map of Puerto Rico Trench
A NOAA image of the bathymetry north of Puerto Rico. Two ancient submarine landslides are visible as head scarps (labeled Loiza and Arecibo Amphitheaters). Seafloor fissures are indicated by black arrows, and dashed lines outline debris flows from past failures. Map annotated by Uri ten Brink, USGS
A NOAA image of the bathymetry north of Puerto Rico. Two ancient submarine landslides are visible as head scarps (labeled Loiza and Arecibo Amphitheaters). Seafloor fissures are indicated by black arrows, and dashed lines outline debris flows from past failures. Map annotated by Uri ten Brink, USGS
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquakeVertical movement of the seafloor over the 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake, view to the northwest, water removed
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake
Vertical movement of seafloor, 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquakeVertical movement of the seafloor over the 2004 Sumatra-Andaman earthquake, view to the northwest, water removed
Deep-Sea, Cold Water Coral
Coral reef off the Florida Keys.
Coral reef off the Florida Keys.
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072, “Landslide Types and Processes.”
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072
Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072Diagram of deep-seated landslide, from USGS Fact Sheet 3004–3072, “Landslide Types and Processes.”
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean SeaPerspective view of the seafloor of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea
Seafloor perspective of the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean SeaPerspective view of the seafloor of the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.