Australian National Marine Sediments Data Collection (MARS)

The national Marine Sediments collection is a scientific resource that includes information for samples collected within the Australian marine jurisdiction, including location, water depth, sampling method and sample descriptions. Data are provided from quantitative analyses of the samples, such as grain size, mud, sand, gravel and carbonate concentrations. Additional analyses on some samples include mineralogy, age determinations, geochemical properties, and physical attributes for down-core samples including bulk density, p-wave velocity, porosity and magnetic susceptibility. Images and graphics are presented, where available. MARS currently holds >40,000 sample and sub-sample records, and approximately 200,000 records describing the characteristics of these samples. New data are being added as they become available. Value: Seabed sediment data is used to characterise the surface geology of the sea floor, important in resource exploration, marine zone management and understanding the physical environment. Scope: Samples were collected from Australia's marine jurisdiction, including the Australian Antarctic Territory. >40,000 sample and sub-sample records, and approximately 200,000 records describing the characteristics of these samples.