Submerged caves of Croatia: distribution,classification and origin |
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| Authors: | Maša Surić Robert Lončarić Nina Lončar |
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| Institution: | 1.Department of Geography,University of Zadar,Zadar,Croatia |
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| Abstract: | Presently, 235 submerged caves and pits have been recorded along the Croatian coast and islands, partly or completely submerged
by sea water. Contrary to the inland situation, recorded submerged features are predominantly horizontal (60%), though there
are indications that the real situation is similar to that of the continental part where 69% are vertical pits. Completely
marine conditions are established in 126 caves and the rest are anchihaline caves and submarine springs. Speleothems are found
in more than 140 caves. By their origin, the investigated caves are all continental features formed in Mesozoic and Palaeogene
carbonates, subsequently submerged owing to sea transgression. Due to the relatively low wave energy, rapid sea level rise
and maturity of the host rock, they do not fit into concepts of a sea cave or a flank margin cave development, but they fulfil
several conditions for being the blue holes. Since the term ‘blue hole’ is mainly associated with the Bahamian karst, our
attempt is only to show the possible similarities with no intention of ascribing that term to the Croatian caves. Beside karstological
issues, Croatian submerged caves are unique environmental, archaeological and tourism assets. |
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