Multibeam bathymetry, high (sleeve airguns) and very high resolution (parametric system –TOPAS–) seismic records were used to define the morphosedimentary features and investigate the depositional architecture of the Cantabrian continental margin and Biscay Abyssal Plain. The outer shelf (down to 180/245 m water depth) displays an intensively eroded seafloor surface that truncates consolidated ancient folded/fractured deposits. The continental slope is mostly subject to different types of slope failures (slides, mass-transport, mass/debris-flows, and turbidity currents) that have favoured the development of large and small-scale canyons and gullies, open slope systems and apron slope systems. Locally, the upper slope is also subject to the action of bottom currents (the Mediterranean Outflow Water –MOW–) that interact with the Le Danois high favouring the sculpting of a complex contourite system. The Biscay Abyssal Plain represents the channel-lobe transition and lobe zones of the Cap Ferret Fan where mass/debris-flows and turbidity currents occur. The architecture depositional model is complex and results from the remaining structural template and the great variability of interconnected sedimentary systems and processes. This margin can be considered as starved due to the great sediment evacuation over a relatively steep entire depositional profile. Sediment is eroded from the Cantabrian Mountains and transported by small stream/river mountains to the sea. It bypasses the continental shelf and when sediment reaches to the slope it is transported through a major submarine drainage system down to the Biscay abyssal plain. Locally, sediment is also (re)distributed by the MOW

Ercilla, Gemma ... et. al.-- XIII International Symposium on Oceanography of the Bay of Biscay. ISOBAY 13, 11-13 April 2012, Santander, Spain

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