A classification scheme for deep seafloor habitats

A standard, universally useful classification scheme for deepwater habitats needs to be established so that descriptions of these habitats can be accu rately and efficiently applied among scientific disciplines. In recent year s many marine benthic habitats in deep water have been described using geop hysical and biological data. These descriptions can vary from one investiga tor to another, which makes it difficult to compare habitats and associated biological assemblages among geographic regions. Using geophysical data co llected with a variety of remote sensor systems and in situ biological and geologic observations, we have constructed a classification scheme that can be used in describing marine benthic habitats in deep water. (C) 1999 Ifre mer / CNRS / IRD / Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.