Hydrogeological characteristics of carbonated cretaceous aquifers and their relationship with complexes of collapsed dolines and ponds in Serrania de Cuenca (province of Cuenca, Spain)

Abstract

The carbonate formations of the cretaceous period of Serrania de Cuenca (Spain), constitute karstified aquifers of great importance and abundant karstic morphologies, both internal (caverns, pit-caves) and external (limestone pavements, collapsed dolines, karst ponds). The lithological variations and the different degree of fracturing and karstification condition the vertical connection of the aquifers, defining irregular aquifer strips of greater secondary porosity that will function as a semi-confined aquifer and that may constitute local aquifers. This influences the hydrodynamic behaviour of the aquifer and main springs and their relationship with karst morphologies, particularly with Cañada del Hoyo pond complex and the so-called “Torcas de los Palancares” collapsed dolines. The study of hydrochemistry and ionic relations evidence the influence of lithology on the chemistry of its groundwater, predominantly calcium and magnesium bicarbonated facies, and the phenomenon of possible disconnection, precipitation and evaporation in the ponds, with bicarbonated magnesium groundwater.