An example of polygenetic geomorphologic development (Karst-Glacial-Tectonics) on Munzur Mountains: Kepir Cave-Elbaba spring karstic system

Abstract

The study area is located at the intersection of a karstic plateau basin in the Munzur Mountain range and a low-lying karstic discharge area in the Ovacık Plain. The mountain range extends east to west and the glacial plain runs parallel in similar direction. The research area is an excellent microcosm of a polygenic morphological karst system. The mountain terrain visible today is dramatic barren landscape and the by-product of multiple, interrelated processes, such as glaciations, karstification and tectonics. The insurgence waters cut into the sediment, gain velocity, and then disappear into a seven meter high by seven meter wide swallow hole cave entrance at 2600m. In the past, pre-Pleistocene dolines had helped transform this area into an icefield landscape. When glaciation period ended, karstic process revived again during Holocene and Kepir Cave has operated as a swallow hole again. The main factors of change can be attributed to glaciations in Pleistocene and intensified karstification during the Holocene. The thick stacking limestone or massif provides the geologic structure for underground drainage and the formation of what may be a significant and deep cave system. The cave system appears to be developing vertically along a prominent fault that is visible just inside the swallow hole entrance. The resurgence, Elbaba, must be related to the Ovacık Fault extending at the northern edge of Ovacık Plain. This karstic system continues to develop as an active system fed by significant snow and rain waters.