Speleologie
Speleology, or speleologie in French, is the scientific study of caves and karst systems. It encompasses their formation, distribution, morphology, mineralogy, chemistry, and ecosystems. The field is multidisciplinary, drawing on geology, hydrology, geomorphology, biology, paleontology, chemistry, and archaeology to understand subsurface environments and their interactions with the surface.
Research in speleology includes cave surveying and mapping, study of speleothems such as stalactites and stalagmites,
Modern speleology has roots in the exploration efforts of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, notably
Applications include groundwater assessment and protection, cave conservation and monitoring, paleoclimate reconstruction, and informing safe access