Geomorphology of the Continental Shelf

Heather A. Stewart, Tom Bradwell, Gareth D.O. Carter, Dayton Dove, Joana Gafeira

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference paperChapterpeer-review

Abstract

The continental shelf around Scotland covers an area of ~286,500 km2, around 3.5 times the size of the Scottish landmass. This relatively shallow underwater realm (mainly <200 m water depth) boasts extremely varied geomorphology: from small individual landforms (<100 m2) to large extensive landsystems (>1000 km2). These landforms and landsystems relate to both past terrestrial processes, when global sea levels were >100 m lower than at present, and more recent marine processes, active since sea levels rose. This chapter outlines the main geomorphological landsystems found on the shelf, highlighting notable landform examples imaged in high-resolution digital bathymetry data. Many of the landforms have remained exceptionally well preserved since deglaciation, unlike on land, having not been subject to significant disturbance by human activity. The uniquely preserved submarine landforms and landscapes in the shallow seas around Scotland should be protected where possible, especially where they host rare or valuable ecosystems.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationLandscapes and Landforms of Scotland
EditorsColin K. Ballantyne, John E. Gordon
Place of PublicationSwitzerland
PublisherSpringer Science and Business Media B.V.
Pages117-134
Number of pages18
ISBN (Electronic)978-3-030-71246-4
ISBN (Print)978-3-030-71245-7, 978-3-030-71248-8
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 25 Aug 2021
Externally publishedYes

Publication series

NameWorld Geomorphological Landscapes
ISSN (Print)2213-2090
ISSN (Electronic)2213-2104

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