A presentation by Shane Venesky

Natural opening in the ground Large enough to permit the entry of man Range from small rooms to passages miles

long

What is a Cave?

Formed by the movement of ground water◦ Slowly dissolves away rock to form tunnels

Most common type

Types of Caves: Solution Caves

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Tube forms in lava Outer surface cools and hardens Molten lava within drains out

Types of Caves: Lava Caves

Lava River Cave, Oregon

Formed by the constant action of waves◦ Attack the shores of oceans and lakes

Types of Caves: Sea Caves

Sea Lion Cave, Oregon

Melted water excavates drainage tunnels

Types of Caves: Glacier Caves

Eisriesenwelt, Werfen, Austria

Stalactites-hang downward from the ceiling Stalagmites-grow upward from the floor Helictites-oddly shaped formations,

enigmatic

Unique Features

Troglobites-organism that lives entirely in a cave◦ Usually blind◦ Keen sense of smell and touch◦ Carnivorous

Animal Life

BatBlindfishGrotto Salamander