Marine Geology and Paleoceanography

ISMAR boasts substantial experience and expertise in the fields of Marine Geology and Paleoceanography. We adopt a multidisciplinary and integrated approach to studying Earth system sciences and environmental technologies.

Our research activities in Marine Geology and Paleoceanography are built upon a comprehensive foundation of knowledge and skills, utilizing cutting-edge technologies for geophysical data acquisition, large instruments, and marine infrastructure. The recent addition of the new oceanographic vessel “Gaia Blu” has opened exciting new opportunities for development in our research endeavors.

ISMAR conducts regional studies focused on the tectonic structures and geodynamics of various orogenic systems within the Mediterranean area, including the Alps, Apennines, Sicily, Maghreb, Dinarides, and Hellas. We investigate Neogene back-arc basins (such as the Tyrrhenian Sea and Pannonian Basin), the active front of the Apennine chain (including the Ionian Sea and the Strait of Sicily), continental rift regions, and areas of recent oceanization (like the Red Sea). Our research also extends to mature oceanic areas characterized by significant transformative systems.

We systematically collect data on Italy’s seas to support seabed cartography, including the Italian Maritime Geological Maps at scales of 1:250,000 and 1:50,000. Our methodologies involve morpho-physical surveys, side-scan sonar, backscatter analysis, sediment sampling, and ROV inspections, allowing us to map marine habitats crucial for the sustainable management of coastal areas and assessment of anthropogenic impacts on the seabed.

In collaboration with other research groups within CNR and various institutions, ISMAR is actively engaged in several research themes:

• Analysis of Stratigraphic Architecture: Investigating the evolution of coastal systems and depositional elements, particularly focusing on the Quaternary continental shelf system and late Holocene changes.
• Active Tectonics: Evaluating the seismogenic and tsunamigenic potential of coastal marine areas and assessing the impacts of historical catastrophic events (floods, storms) on coastlines.
• Coastal System Evolution: Studying late-Quaternary oscillations and their influence on coastal systems.
• Underwater Gravitational Instability: Researching both deep and shallow gravitational phenomena.
• Seismogenic Structures: Investigating active fault families, submerged archaeological sites, and volcanic centers.
• Mineral Exploration: Examining sandy deposits and other mineral resources of economic interest.
• Archaeological Exploration: Investigating submerged archaeological sites and their significance.

Our research activities in paleoclimatology and paleoceanography of the recent Quaternary involve integrated multiproxy studies derived from sedimentary records, including microfossils, isotopic geochemistry, and various physical and petrographic parameters. Utilizing a wide range of state-of-the-art instruments and laboratories, we aim to enhance our understanding of the natural variability of the Earth system and evaluate the impacts of climate change on these critical areas.