speleologen
Speleologen are individuals who study caves and subterranean environments, either as scientists or as amateur explorers. The field, known as speleology, covers geology, hydrology, biology, archaeology, paleontology, and related disciplines, with an emphasis on cave formation, cave ecosystems, and karst processes. Speleologen conduct fieldwork that may include mapping and surveying, sampling and monitoring of cave climates, and documentation of cave fauna and mineral deposits (speleothems). They use specialized equipment such as cave lamps, protective gear, surveying instruments, and sometimes diving gear for underwater passages.
Speleologen apply a range of methods to understand caves: geological analyses of rock formations, tracing groundwater
The field has both professional researchers and amateur societies. Modern speleology emerged in the 19th and
Ethics and safety are central: fieldwork emphasizes minimal environmental impact, proper training, risk assessment, and agreements