karst topography

Scientific  

/ kärst /

1. A landscape that is characterized by numerous caves, sinkholes, fissures, and underground streams. Karst topography usually forms in regions of plentiful rainfall where bedrock consists of carbonate-rich rock, such as limestone, gypsum, or dolomite, that is easily dissolved. Surface streams are usually absent from karst topography.

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Example Sentences

This part of the state is one of the top places in the country for Karst topography.

From Seattle Times

In the lowlands of Florida, white oak species separate across the sandhill, scrub and ravine habitats shaped by karst topography and fire.

From Scientific American

Jefferson County’s karst topography is prone to sinkholes, which means that the limestone underpinning Rockwool’s factory is fragile and easily fragments.

From Washington Post

Chinese investors, inspired by the picturesque location — its dramatic karst topography and lush growth have been the source of countless Chinese landscape paintings — approached the architect with the idea of a resort hotel.

From New York Times

The National Park Service has expressed concerns about pipeline spills affecting Mammoth Cave, the world’s longest cave system, and the surrounding karst topography and groundwater.

From Washington Times