Shallow geophysics of the Asinara Island Marine Reserve Area (NW Sardinia, Italy)

We present a high-resolution swath bathymetric and backscatter map of the entire sector of theMarine Reserve Area (MRA) of the Asinara Island, along with a geological and sedimentthickness map derived from the interpretation of a large set of high-resolution seismicprofiles, and an airborne-derived hyperspectral image of the Asinara Island. Acquired datashow that most of the eastern marine sector of the Asinara Island is characterized by quitegentle bathymetric gradients, whereas the western coastline appears to be very indented,with an articulated and rough morphology of the seafloor, which deepens sharply towardsthe open sea. The maps presented in this study at the 1:50.000 scale do not only provide thefirst, high-resolution bathymetry of the MRA of the Asinara Island but also may furnish thebase for the creation of a benthic habitat map and a more comprehensive maritime spatialplanning of this protected area.