Speleology

Discover the hidden wonders of the Lake Cave (Ozernaya Cave) located in the picturesque Ternopil region of Ukraine. This captivating cave, nestled 1 km southwest of the village of Strilkovtsy, boasts a labyrinth structure and unique geological formations. Dive into the depths of this Neogene gypsum wonderland, featuring towering organ pipes and the majestic Alligator Grotto. Unravel the mysteries of this enchanting cave system, a gem in the East European speleological country. […]

Explore the complexities of cave classification and typification in karst caves with a focus on the works of G. A. Maksimovich, L. I. Maruashvili, and V. N. Dublyansky. Discover how existing classifications are based on morphological features and the importance of considering cave genesis in classification. Delve into a generalized scheme of genetic and morphological types of caves for a comprehensive understanding. […]

Discover the enchanting Bajeyskaya Cave nestled on the right bank of the Stepnoi Bajeyskaya River, just 4 km northeast of its namesake settlement. Formed in Ordovician conglomerates, this captivating cave boasts a vertical well entrance, intricate grottoes, and passages meandering through tectonic fissures. Delve into the depths of Lion's Grotto, marvel at the crystal-clear streams like Porcelain, and gaze upon the serene beauty of the underground lake. Uncover the geological wonders of stalactites, stalagmites, and unique formations that adorn the cave's clay-covered floor. Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bajeyskaya Cave and immerse yourself in its natural splendor. […]

Discover the hidden wonders of Sukhoatinskaya Cave, located on the right bank of the Atya River near the village of Sukhaya Atya, Russia. Formed in Silurian limestones, this cave boasts a unique entrance, intricate grottoes, and a three-storied structure. Join us on a journey through the Resonance Grotto, where a stream flows amidst limestone blocks and concretionary formations. Uncover the mysteries of Sukhoatinskaya Cave and delve into its fascinating geological history. […]

Discover the mysterious lunar or rock milk, a unique colloid that adorns the vaults and walls of caves in areas where water emerges from narrow cracks. This rare phenomenon, resembling lime dough or sour cream, can be found in caves such as the Red Cave in Crimea, Kizelovskaya in the Urals, and Anakopiyskaya in the Caucasus. Join us on a journey to unravel the secrets of this intriguing natural occurrence. […]

Cave stalactites have always intrigued people, with various formations such as thin-tubular stalactites standing out as especially captivating. These stalactites, sometimes forming entire calcite thickets, are formed through the release of calcium carbonate or halite from infiltration waters within caves. As infiltration waters undergo changes in thermodynamic conditions, the deposition of colloidal calcium carbonate along the perimeter of falling drops results in the gradual formation of thin-tubular, often transparent stalactites. Discover more about these unique stalactite formations and the intriguing processes behind their creation. […]

Discover the intriguing world of cave vegetation, a crucial element of the underground ecosystem that has been largely overlooked in research. With limited information available, delve into the unique adaptations of green plants as they penetrate caves, altering their leaf structures and chlorophyll distribution. Explore the fascinating findings of albino herbaceous plants in Anakopi cave and the diverse plant species thriving in the depths of caves like Steirmake. Uncover the presence of autotrophic bacteria and fungal mycelia in the hidden corners of caves, contributing to the complex ecosystem within these mysterious environments. […]

Discover the scientific and practical significance of studying karst caves. Explore the intricate processes that shape these unique formations and their crucial role in solving economic challenges. From valuable minerals to underground water reserves, karst caves offer a wealth of opportunities for various industries. Delve into the diverse aspects of speleology, including geomorphological, hydrological, and archaeological perspectives. Uncover the latest research on karst caves as extraordinary natural landscapes with multifaceted classifications. […]

Discover the captivating world of ice formations in caves, where sublimation processes give rise to intricate crystal structures. From leaf-shaped to pyramidal, rectangular-plate-shaped, needle-shaped, and fern-shaped crystals, each formation is a product of unique environmental conditions. Join us as we delve into the beauty of pyramidal clusters and delicate fern-like crystals that adorn cave ceilings, offering a glimpse into the wonders of nature's frozen artistry. […]

Discover the East European speleological country, nestled within the Russian Plain, boasting a plethora of karst caves formed in carbonate and halogen rocks spanning Paleozoic, Mesozoic, and Cenozoic eras. Uncover the largest caves in the former USSR, with the Valdai-Kuloisky, Kamsko-Middle Volga, Pre-Caspian, and Dniester-Black Sea regions offering a rich speleological landscape. Delve into the Dvinsko-Mezenskaya province in the northern Russian Plain, home to 84 investigated karst caves, including the impressive Leningradskaya, Severyanka, Pinezhskaya, Golubinskaya, and Kulogorskaya caves. […]