This is a Preprint and has not been peer reviewed. The published version of this Preprint is available: https://doi.org/10.1071/MF24220. This is version 4 of this Preprint.
Seafloor character of the Roman Rock area in False Bay, South Africa
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Abstract
Context: This study investigates the seafloor character of a 12 km2 area off Simon’s Town in False Bay, South Africa.
Aims: The goal was to map the seafloor geology around Roman Rock Lighthouse, focusing on sedimentology.
Methods: Side-scan sonar and single-beam echosounder were used, complemented by sediment sampling and diver observations for ground-truthing. Sediment samples were analysed for texture and composition.
Key Results: Six patterns of reflectivity (acoustic facies) were identified, including granite outcrops, wave ripples, and patches of gravelly and quartzose sands. Sediment analysis showed a mix of calcareous and quartzose components, with calcareous material dominating the gravel fraction near granite outcrops.
Conclusions: The Roman Rock seafloor reflects a complex depositional environment shaped by biogenic activity and wave-induced sediment transport.
Implications: This research lays the groundwork for future geological studies in False Bay, particularly around wave-induced sediment dynamics.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.31223/X5B719
Subjects
Geology, Sedimentology
Keywords
False Bay; South Africa; seafloor mapping; side-scan sonar; diver observations
Dates
Published: 2024-10-04 03:18
Last Updated: 2025-08-15 08:42
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License
CC BY Attribution 4.0 International
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Conflict of interest statement:
N/A
Comment #235 Andrew Terhorst @ 2025-08-15 04:04
A revised peer-reviewed version of the article has been published in the journal "Marine and Freshwater Research". The article can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1071/MF24220.