Exploration Reveals Hidden Forest 630 Feet Below Ground in China
Beneath the surface of China’s Leye-Fengshan World Geopark lies a remarkable secret—a stunning ancient forest found deep within a sinkhole. Situated in Guangxi, China, this geopark has received recognition from UNESCO for its unique geological features.
Comprised of Devonian to Permian carbonate rocks, the geopark boasts a diverse array of karst formations, including caves, natural bridges, and expansive cave systems. Notable geological wonders found here include poljes, karst springs, natural bridges, and vast cave chambers adorned with speleothems. Additionally, the area showcases high karst peak clusters known as fengcong.
In May 2022, scientists made a groundbreaking discovery within the geopark—a new sinkhole nearly 1,000 feet long, 490 feet wide, and approximately 630 feet deep. Inside this immense chasm, researchers uncovered several ancient trees and plants, potentially including previously unidentified species.
Exploring further, scientists found three cave openings within the sinkhole, offering a unique habitat for diverse flora and fauna. Expedition leader Chen Lixin suggests that these caves may harbor species yet to be documented by scientists.
Sinkhole formation is influenced by various factors, including location and temperature. In the southern region of China, where the geopark is located, the karst landscape is particularly striking, characterized by expansive sinkholes and cave entrances.
Karst terrain is formed through the dissolution of bedrock by slightly acidic precipitation. As rainwater seeps through the soil, it becomes more acidic, gradually eroding tunnels and chambers within the bedrock. Sinkholes emerge when the surrounding rock collapses due to the enlargement of these subsurface voids.
The recent discovery adds to the geological wonders of China’s karst landscape, which includes the world’s largest sinkhole, Xiaozhai Tiankeng. With its remarkable dimensions and natural beauty, this hidden forest within the sinkhole underscores the importance of preserving our planet’s unique geological formations.
Image credit : Instagram UNILAD, Facebook Capture
