At CIMA (Atlantic Center for Environmental Research, S.L.), we want to show you what we do—both in our offices and beyond.

On this page, you’ll find a series of short videos called "Things We Do at CIMA", which will help explain what we do and how we do it. All to bring you closer to the world of Marine Biology and Oceanography.

«Things We Do at CIMA» #15: Bathymetry:

 A crucial part of some of these projects is the bathymetric study of the seabed.

Just as, on land, when studying various animal and plant species, you rely on maps and plans of the study area, there are times when you must do the same in marine studies. Bathymetry serves as that “map” of the seabed, which we use in many of our studies. Additionally, it provides highly detailed information about the shape and structure of the seabed, including its geological and geomorphological features.

Bathymetry is a key component when initiating any maritime infrastructure project, as it allows us to obtain a detailed representation of the seabed. It is also essential for scientific research, marine topography modeling, and the exploration, exploitation, conservation, and management of natural resources. For example, we’ve previously discussed our vegetation mapping projects in the islands. To execute these accurately, we first need to understand the bathymetry of the study area.

Bathymetric studies are conducted using various techniques, each yielding different results depending on the precision required. Among the most widely used techniques are single-beam and multibeam echosounders. These systems emit sound waves to measure the distance between the water surface and the seabed, as well as objects suspended in the water or resting on the bottom.