The largest dataset of deep seafloor imagery ever assembled, showing "we have visually observed less than 0.001%"
Despite the importance of visual observation in the ocean, we have imaged a minuscule fraction of the deep seafloor. Sixty-six percent of the entire planet is deep ocean (≥200 m), and our data show we have visually observed less than 0.001%, a total area approximately a tenth of the size of Belgium. Data gathered from over 44 thousand deep-sea dives indicate we have also seen an incredibly biased sample. Sixty-five percent of all in situ visual seafloor observations in our dataset were within 200 nm of only three countries: the United States, Japan, and New Zealand. Ninety-seven percent of all dives we compiled have been conducted by just five countries: the United States, Japan, New Zealand, France, and Germany. This small and biased sample is problematic when attempting to characterize, understand, and manage a global ocean.
By Bell, Katherine Lynn Croff, Kristen, Johannes (Researcher), Poulton, Susan E (Researcher), and Kennedy, Brian R.C. (Researcher)
Organization Type: | Academic / research organization |
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Status: | N/A |
Founded: | 2025 |
Open Source: | Yes |
Last Modified: | 5/7/2025 |
Added on: | 5/7/2025 |