caverna

Caverna is a natural underground void or chamber in rock formed by geological processes. In Portuguese and Spanish, caverna refers to a cave or cavern. The term derives from Latin caverna, meaning hollow or cavity.

Caves occur in various settings. Karst caves develop when acidic groundwater dissolves soluble rocks such as limestone, dolomite, or gypsum; features include passages, chambers, stalactites and stalagmites (speleothems). Lava tubes form in volcanic eruptions when flowing lava creates tunnels; sea caves are carved by wave action; ice caves owe their structure to freezing temperatures within glaciers.

Caves create unique microhabitats with limited light and stable conditions. Many host specialized fauna such as bats, crustaceans, and troglobitic invertebrates; microbes also contribute to nutrient cycles. The darkness and isolation of caves help preserve fossils and archaeological residues, making cave systems important for research in geology, biology, and anthropology.

Human use and conservation: People explore caves for sport, science, and cultural value. Caves may contain prehistoric art, artifacts, or fossils. Protection efforts focus on conserving cave ecosystems, managing access to prevent damage, and mitigating risks from flooding, collapse, or poor air quality. Responsible cave exploration prioritizes safety, environmental stewardship, and adherence to local regulations.

Etymology and nomenclature: The word caverna comes from Latin caverna and is used in Romance languages to denote a cave. In English, cave or cavern are equivalent terms, with cave commonly referring to a natural underground void of variable size.