Morphological patterns of crevice-type caves in sedimentary rocks of the Outer Western Carpathians (Czech Republic)

Abstract

I evaluate crevice-type caves in the Outer Western Carpathians from the morphological point of view at different scales, from the overall arrangement of cave passages within the massif, to their shape and finally to the micro-morphological features of their walls and ceilings, using examples from the Czech part of the Carpathians. The cave passages are typically parallel to and follow the strike of the slope, but the passages of relatively large caves are typically fan-like arranged. Vertically, the passages are organized at particular levels governed by lithology. They can be staircase-shifted with each other. The gradual opening of the uppermost level may lead to deformation of the surface terrain, however, this terrain can be entirely flat, which gives evidence of the gravitational widening of the caves from the inside of the massif. In cross-section, the passages are A, V, or H letter shaped, according to the type of gravitational movement leading to their development. The various micromorphological features that originate from sedimentology, tectonics, gravitational processes, and mechanical and chemical weathering sometimes mark the exposed walls and ceilings.

Pseudokarst caves of the Outer Western Carpathians, Czechia

“…Some other studies particularly involve issues related to pseudokarst caves (Baroň et al, 2014;Klimeš et al, 2012). An overview of the morphology of crevice type caves was provided by Lenart (2015). Also studies conducted outside the study area, but that deal with a similar topic, should be noted.…”

“…Although it is possible to obtain data concerning their dimensions (Lenart et al, 2014;Wagner et al, 1990), morphology (Lenart, 2015), genesis, relation to gravitational slope deformations (Lenart et al, 2014), recent evolution (movement) (Baroň et al, 2014;Klimeš et al, 2012), determination of the exact ages of the caves has failed. The only reliable data show the minimal ages of gravitational slope deformations acquired from organic matter deposited in the colluvial parts of gravitationally disrupted slopes.…”