Abstract

Plitvice Lakes are a world-famous karst phenomenon. Their origin and development is a consequence of a specific geological structure and geomorphological processes. The aim of this chapter is to provide an overview of geoscientific knowledge about this area with additional data from recent research. This area belongs to the outer Dinarides, the largest karst area in Europe. The majority of geological material consists of Triassic dolomite, Jurassic dolomites and limestones, and Cretaceous limestones. Differences in lithology also cause differences in hydrogeological characteristics and in exogenous geomorphological processes. Areas built of dolomite are mostly impermeable, so a drainage network and erosion processes have been developed on them. Karstification processes predominates on the limestones and there are lack of the surface streams. The most famous phenomena are tufa barriers and a series of cascading barrage lakes with waterfalls that make this area world famous.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.