A Global Dataset of Bathymetric Features Identified with Prominence and Isobaths Analysis

The systematic, global-scale characterization of submarine landforms is fundamental to ocean science, yet is often hindered by inconsistent, proprietary, or closed-source methodologies. We address this critical gap by presenting a global dataset of 125,514 bathymetric features derived from the GEBCO_2025 Grid using a novel, reproducible workflow based on topographic prominence and isobath analysis. The dataset includes all features with a prominence greater than 300 meters. Each feature is defined by its peak location and characterized by five nested contour levels, capturing its morphology from base to summit. For each contour level, a comprehensive suite of morphometric attributes is provided, including area, circularity, orientation, and slope. This rich attribution allows for easy filtering and sub-classification; for instance, features with prominence >1000 m and high circularity can be readily isolated to study seamounts. This dataset provides an objective and quantitative foundation for systematic classification, supporting research in marine geology, volcanism, marine biodiversity, oceanography including climate studies, and resource assessment. The data are distributed as OGC-compliant GeoPackage files, and all processing code is openly available and documented to ensure full reproducibility and broad usability.

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Publication Details

Journal
Scientific Data
Published
2026-04-17
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41597-026-07241-z
Primary Topic
Underwater Acoustics Research
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
0.00

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article

A Global Dataset of Bathymetric Features Identified with Prominence and Isobaths Analysis

Daniel W. Schmid, Alban Souche, Ebbe H. Hartz
Scientific Data
Underwater Acoustics Research
article

A Global Dataset of Bathymetric Features Identified with Prominence and Isobaths Analysis

Daniel W. Schmid, Alban Souche, Ebbe H. Hartz
article en

Abstract

The systematic, global-scale characterization of submarine landforms is fundamental to ocean science, yet is often hindered by inconsistent, proprietary, or closed-source methodologies. We address this critical gap by presenting a global dataset of 125,514 bathymetric features derived from the GEBCO_2025 Grid using a novel, reproducible workflow based on topographic prominence and isobath analysis. The dataset includes all features with a prominence greater than 300 meters. Each feature is defined by its peak location and characterized by five nested contour levels, capturing its morphology from base to summit. For each contour level, a comprehensive suite of morphometric attributes is provided, including area, circularity, orientation, and slope. This rich attribution allows for easy filtering and sub-classification; for instance, features with prominence >1000 m and high circularity can be readily isolated to study seamounts. This dataset provides an objective and quantitative foundation for systematic classification, supporting research in marine geology, volcanism, marine biodiversity, oceanography including climate studies, and resource assessment. The data are distributed as OGC-compliant GeoPackage files, and all processing code is openly available and documented to ensure full reproducibility and broad usability.

Scientific Data
University of Bergamo (IT), Aker BP (Norway) (NO)
Aker BP
Life below water, Climate action
Openalex Percentile: Top 15%
Underwater Acoustics Research
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