Invisible landscapes revealed: geophysical insights into the underwater extensions of terrestrial landforms

The morphology of many lakes in mountainous regions is attributed to their deglaciation history and associated processes. However, the visibility within these lakes is often limited due to suspended sediment and organic particles, making it challenging to discern landforms below the water's surface. As a result, lakes are regarded by many as unknown water bodies, with limited understanding of their submerged features. Recent advancements in high-resolution geophysical data have made it possible to unveil underwater morphologies to a wider audience. This article presents three pristine examples from perialpine Swiss lakes, illustrating the seamless transition of subaerial landforms into the nearshore zone. Understanding these geomorphic expressions enhances our knowledge of landscape formation and supports better land use and hazard management decision-making.