SOUTHAMPTON marine experts are today studying pictures taken of the seabed at the epicentre of the devastating Indian Ocean earthquake.

It is the first time scientists have surveyed the sea floor so soon after an underwater earthquake and the images could help predict such catastrophes in the future.

They were sent back from Royal Navy ship HMS Scott yesterday as she carried out a geological survey of the earthquake rupture zone.

Southampton Oceanography Centre experts Dr Tim Henstock and Dr Lisa McNeill are on board to give advice on areas to be surveyed and how to interpret the data.

Dr McNeill said: "This is the first major offshore earthquake since modern investigative techniques have been available.

"It will provide the base map to further geological understanding of the region and will form the basis for planning possible future science missions.

"Not only is HMS Scott leading investigations in the area, this is the first time scientists have ever surveyed the sea floor so soon after an underwater earthquake - before erosion and other processes change the geology."

Dr Henstock added: "We are pleased to be part of this major collaboration - the first time that HMS Scott has been made available for a civilian mission.

"We are looking forward to being able to make our contribution to the understanding of these catastrophic events."

The pair, who each have more than ten years' experience in geophysics, expect to be around the Indian Ocean for a few weeks.

The Boxing Day earthquake triggered horrific tsunamis, which ripped apart villages and resorts across the Indian Ocean.

The Indonesian government allowed the survey - a collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, the British Geological Survey and Southampton Oceanography Centre - to go ahead.