Methods for Analysing Bedform Geometry and Dynamics

Abstract

Rhythmic bedforms of different spatial scales are common in the marine environment. In shallow seas, the monitoring of bedforms is important because changes in morphology may interfere with offshore infrastructure and navigation. In addition, investigating bedform dynamics improves our understanding of the processes that cause their behaviour. Quantified bedform characterization also contributes to the validation of morphodynamic models. Modern, high-precision and high-resolution bathymetric data enable the detailed analysis of bedforms. Several semi-automated methods (e.g. geostatistical and spectral techniques) have been developed to quantify the geometry (size and shape) and dynamics (growth, change in shape and migration) of subaqueous bedforms. An overview of these different approaches is given and differences in use and potential are described.