Speleogenesis along deep regional faults by ascending waters: case studies from Slovakia and Czech Republic

Caves in the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst regions, previously attributed to phreatic or vadose processes linked to Pleistocene geomorphic evolution, are now recognized as products of ascending (perascensum) speleogenesis driven by deep regional faults. This study identifies nine key characteristics shared by these caves, including their development along major fault zones, dominance of 3D mazes and labyrinths in morphology, and diagnostic speleogens indicative of slow ascending groundwater. The findings challenge traditional models, suggesting that these caves are substantially older than the current landscape (Pliocene or Miocene) and are not directly linked to thermal waters or hydrothermal processes. The research employs a comparative analysis of six case studies from Slovakia and the Czech Republic, integrating geological and hydrological data to elucidate the complex interplay between deep fault systems and speleogenesis.

Bella, P., & Bosak, P. (2012). Speleogenesis along deep regional faults by ascending waters: case studies from Slovakia and Czech Republic. Acta Carsologica, 41(2-3). https://doi.org/10.3986/ac.v41i2-3.556