Publications
Gravimetric Detection of Cave Space and Sinkhole Hazard with Growth Inversion: Valaská Village Case in Karst (Slovakia)
A persistent sinkhole hazard exists in Valaská village, Slovakia, despite mitigation efforts, as revealed by microgravimetric analysis using the Growth inversion methodology. This study demonstrates that Growth inversion—a free-geometry inversion technique—is effective for detecting shallow cave spaces and assessing sinkhole risks in karst environments. The research highlights both the strengths and limitations of this approach, emphasizing the importance of parameter tuning to improve accuracy. Valaská's history of sinkholes, including a notable incident involving a horse in 1964, underscores the ongoing threat, which the gravimetric study confirms remains active.
Middle Pleistocene (>350 ka) glaciation in the Carpathians unveiled by quartz microtextures from cave sediments (Low Tatra Mountains, Slovakia)
Researchers have uncovered direct evidence of Middle Pleistocene glaciation (>350,000 years ago) in the Western Carpathians, specifically within the UNESCO-listed Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst. By analyzing quartz grain microtextures from dated cave sediments in the Demänová Cave System (Low Tatra Mountains, Slovakia), the study provides the first conclusive proof of Chibanian glaciation in this region. Using scanning electron microscopy, the team identified glacigenic grains preserved in allochthonous cave clastic sediments that predate Marine Isotope Stage 10. Additionally, well-rounded quartz grains from Triassic rocks suggest glacial activity during MIS 6. This innovative approach is uniquely sensitive to early glacial imprints in karst terrains, where conventional geomorphic evidence may have been erased by subsequent ice advances. The method offers a novel way to detect otherwise missing records of glaciations, advancing our understanding of past climate dynamics in this region.
Radon monitoring in the Harmanecká Cave, Slovakia
A study monitoring radon levels in Harmanecká Cave, Slovakia, revealed that annual average radon activity concentration inside the cave ranged from 930 to 2240 Bq/m³, significantly higher than the outdoor cavity measurement of 222.5 Bq/m³. Seasonal variations in radon levels were observed but showed no clear correlation with microclimate or meteorological parameters, suggesting that continuous measurements are necessary for a comprehensive assessment. The estimated annual effective dose for cave guides remained below the safety limit of 20 mSv. The research utilized Ramarn track detectors placed at multiple stations inside and outside the cave, with data collected over a year from December 2023 to November 2024.
Shear-Wave Seismic Imaging using Small-Scale Broadband Electromagnetic Vibrators: A Case Study from Slovak Karst Mountains
Researchers successfully employed small-scale broadband electromagnetic vibrators to map shear-wave seismic activity in the Slovak Karst Mountains, revealing potential new extensions of cave systems. The study tested modified ElViS VII and eVibe Lightning vibrators, both generating high-quality signals within a 4–120 Hz frequency band during a CTBTO On-Site Inspection field test. While the modified ElViS showed higher harmonic distortion, it achieved a 15 dB signal increase in reflection-dominated bands, producing a stacked seismic section with a notable anomaly suggesting further cave exploration. This approach demonstrates the viability of broadband near-surface S-wave seismic imaging for karst environments.
Soil enzyme activities and moss biomonitoring as complementary bioindicators of environmental status and toxic and potentially toxic element contamination in a karst cave and its catchment: Brestovská Cave, Slovakia
A new study on Brestovská Cave, Slovakia, reveals that soil enzyme activities and moss biomonitoring are effective complementary bioindicators for assessing environmental status and toxic/potentially toxic element (TPTE) contamination. The research found two distinct gradients: a natural gradient where lithophile elements remain below world-soil averages and enzyme activities decline towards the cave's aphotic interior due to oligotrophy, rather than contamination; and an anthropogenic gradient where cadmium consistently exceeds Slovak statutory limits but shows no clear external input signal, while selenium exhibits strong enrichment and variability, indicating localized external contamination. Mercury at the resurgence also signals local pollution. Despite moderate ecological risk (ERI = 212), screening-level health risks for visitors were deemed acceptable (HI ≤ 0.59; As-CR ≤ 8.3 × 10⁻⁶). The study highlights the importance of reference choice in interpreting TPTE data and underscores the utility of moss biomonitoring alongside soil enzyme analysis.
Accessible Caves in Slovakia as a Tool for Geoscience Education
Slovakia's rich karst landscape, home to over 8,100 caves, offers unparalleled opportunities for geoscience education. These subterranean environments serve as natural laboratories for studying geological processes, hydrological cycles, climate change, and the history of life on Earth. Accessible caves provide a unique platform for both experts and the general public to explore these phenomena through educational activities and guided tours. This study characterizes Slovakia's accessible caves, assessing their current state, protection measures, utilization, and presentation methods. By leveraging these geological wonders, the research highlights their potential as valuable tools for enhancing public understanding of Earth sciences.
Inventory and Evaluation of Geosites: Case Studies of the Slovak Karst as a Potential Geopark in Slovakia
A study evaluating geosites within the potential Geopark Slovak Karst, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Caves of Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst, identifies three caves—Jasovská Cave, Domica Cave, and Baradla Cave—as top attractions with the highest scores (22.5 to 23.5 points) for both main and additional values. Gombasecká Cave also scores highly but with medium additional values. Other geosites score between 9 and 16 points. The research suggests that networking lesser-known geosites through educational trails could extend visitor stays in the region, benefiting tourism. The study's methodology, a modified Geosite Assessment Model (GAM), proved effective for evaluating geosites across the potential Geopark.
LiDAR-Based Morphometry of Dolines in Aggtelek Karst (Hungary) and Slovak Karst (Slovakia)
LiDAR-based morphometry reveals that doline density in the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst UNESCO World Heritage Sites is 25% higher when derived from high-resolution digital terrain models (DTMs) compared to traditional topographic maps. This study introduces a new parameter, k, which characterizes the 3D shape of dolines, indicating whether they resemble cylinders, bowls (calottes), cones, or funnels. Most dolines in the region exhibit transitional shapes between bowl and cone forms. The research also highlights that doline density is negligible on slopes steeper than 12° and that 75% of dolines are associated with Wetterstein Limestone. Additionally, the lognormal distribution effectively models the size distribution of doline areas.
New archaeobotanical finds from Baradla Cave
Recent archaeobotanical analysis of charred plant remains from the Baradla Cave, part of the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst UNESCO World Heritage Site, has revealed the presence of emmer wheat, barley, pea, and lentil seeds. These findings, derived from soil samples collected during a 2019 rescue excavation in the Róka-ág branch of the cave, contribute to our understanding of prehistoric agricultural practices in Northern Hungary. Despite the poor preservation of the remains, the study highlights the significance of Baradla Cave as one of the oldest known prehistoric sites in the region, with artifacts predominantly dating back to the Middle Neolithic and Late Bronze Age. The uncertain dating of samples adds complexity to interpreting these discoveries.
Parallels of environmentally friendly pastoralism to land cover changes and high nature value farmland
A progressive succession of woody plants on pastures, driven by factors such as conservation measures and natural conditions, threatens the preservation of valuable habitats and visually attractive karst landscapes within the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study assessed land cover changes over three decades in transtermitant farm operational areas and Biosphere Reserve (BR) zones, identifying that karst microreliefs were excluded from pastoral activities due to inherent nature of transtermitance and type of farmed animal. The research highlights the critical need for agreed-upon grazing conditions between farmers and BR administration to safeguard high nature value farmland, clean underground water, and the unique cave system.
Chemical denudation dynamic based on hydrochemical measurements in the area of Drienovecká jaskyňa Cave basin (Slovak karst, Slovakia)
Chemical denudation in the Drienovecká jaskyňa Cave basin (Slovak Karst) exhibits distinct seasonal dynamics, with peak rates observed during spring months. The study, spanning three hydrological years, revealed an average denudation rate of 21.06 mg Ca²⁺ per unit time, influenced by factors such as CO₂ partial pressure, water temperature, and snowmelt. Hydrochemical analyses confirmed the cave spring's calcium-magnesium-bicarbonate water type, characterized by oversaturation with respect to calcite. These findings highlight the interplay between climatic conditions, geological composition, and biological activity in shaping karst landscape evolution.
Diversity of Soil Nematodes in the Treatened Ecosystems of Ponicka Cave.
Researchers identified 54 nematode species across 9 orders, with the highest diversity (44 species) found in karst springs and sinkholes near Ponicka Cave. Bacterivores dominated all sites, highlighting their ecological significance. The study reveals distinct nematode compositions linked to environmental conditions, underscoring the importance of soil biota in cave ecosystem health. This is the first comprehensive analysis of free-living and plant-parasitic nematodes in this vulnerable Slovak Karst region, providing critical insights for conservation efforts.
Troglomorphic adaptations on the northern European frontier: the phylogeny of the cave Pseudosinella (Hexapoda, Collembola) in the Western Carpathians
A phylogenetic analysis of the cave-dwelling springtail genus Pseudosinella in the Western Carpathians reveals two distinct species groups with allopatric distributions, one including the known P. aggtelekiensis and three undescribed species, while the other merges P. paclti populations and introduces a new species, Pseudosinellamuranensis, characterized by pronounced troglomorphic features. Molecular dating suggests that these lineages diverged during the Miocene, around 14.51 million years ago, coinciding with the uplift of Triassic limestones and early cave formation in the region. This study underscores the Western Carpathians as a significant speciation center for obligate cave fauna in Europe.
Attitudes and perceptions of local residents and tourists – a comparative study of the twin national parks of Aggtelek (Hungary) and Slovak Karst (Slovakia)
A comparative study of the twin national parks, Aggtelek (Hungary) and Slovak Karst (Slovakia), reveals that while both local residents and tourists generally hold positive views toward these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a notable minority of locals express dissatisfaction, likely due to perceived limited influence over park decisions. The research highlights that forests are the most visited natural resource by locals, whereas caves are the primary attraction for tourists. Despite minimal conflict between locals and tourists, both groups support increased tourism. Additionally, the study identifies a small but significant segment of visitors who consider themselves geotourists, though geotourism is not widely recognized among locals or park management. The research also notes that cave tourism in Hungary is largely driven by school education, while the term 'karst' is less familiar to visitors, particularly on the Hungarian side. The study employed a questionnaire survey to gather data on attitudes and perceptions.
Development of Cave Tourism in the Domica Area in Slovakia
Slovakia's Domica region, home to 7,014 known caves—only 18 of which are accessible—emerges as a prime candidate for the development of cave and medical tourism. A study combining geological analysis with questionnaire-based research on local service providers reveals that the area's unique underground formations, coupled with its potential for speleotherapy (health benefits from cave environments), can significantly boost regional tourism and infrastructure. The findings advocate for the establishment of an international geopark to harness this potential, addressing both economic growth and the preservation of Slovakia's rich karst heritage.
Factors and Chemical Denudation Dynamics in the area of Drienovec Cave Basin (Slovak Karst, Slovakia)
Chemical denudation in the Drienovec Cave Basin of Slovak Karst exhibits significant seasonal variability, ranging from 2.38 to 64.53 m³/km²/year, with an average of 15 m³/km²/year. This dynamic process is closely linked to spring discharge and water chemistry, influenced by geological formations such as Wetterstein, Waxenec, and Drienovec conglomerates. The study, conducted over three hydrological years, provides the first detailed insights into chemical denudation in this region, revealing comparable rates to other European karst areas like Moravský kras (Czech Republic) and Dobrudža Mountains (Bulgaria).
Preliminary data on the bacterial diversity of Dobšinská and Demänovská ice caves (Slovakia)
A study reveals that the bacterial communities in Dobšinská and Demänovská ice caves, part of Slovakia's UNESCO-listed Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst, are dominated by Acinetobacter and Bacillus species, with only two common bacterial species between the two sites. The research, using Sanger and Illumina sequencing, identified 7 and 12 bacterial species respectively in these caves, also noting higher diversity in ice samples compared to sediments or water. The findings highlight potential impacts of climate change on microbial evolution and tourist activity on microbial community structures, marking the first comprehensive insight into the bacterial diversity of these unique underground habitats.
Social assessment of national parks through the example of the Aggtelek National Park
Local communities near the Aggtelek National Park and Slovak Karst National Park perceive national parks as economic barriers, limiting their ability to diversify local economies. While national parks aim to protect geological and biological values while promoting tourism, interviews with settlement leaders revealed conflicts arising from restrictions on economic activities imposed by these protected areas. Many locals view national park authorities negatively, questioning the necessity of nature conservation—a sentiment linked to past socialist regimes. The study highlights a need for shifting attitudes toward more positive engagement with conservation efforts in karst regions.
Analysis of Attendance and Speleotourism Potential of Accessible Caves in Karst Landscape of Slovakia
Slovakia's karst caves, home to over 7000 registered caverns and five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, hold significant speleotourism potential. A study analyzing attendance data from 12 accessible caves between 2010–2019 and visitor surveys revealed that these sites are vital for both domestic and international tourism, as well as nature conservation. The research employed a modified standardization methodology to evaluate quality indicators, ranking the caves based on their speleotourism potential. This approach highlights the importance of preserving and promoting these natural wonders, which attract substantial visitor numbers while contributing to cultural heritage protection.
Cave monitoring in Hungary: An overview
A comprehensive analysis of cave monitoring data from Hungary's Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst, including Baradla, Béke, Vacska, Szemlőhegy, and Pálvölgy caves, reveals critical insights into karst hydrological processes and the influence of climatological factors on carbonate precipitation. The study, spanning 2019–2020, identified seasonality in CO₂ concentrations linked to external temperature variations, indicating dynamic cave ventilation regimes. Stable isotope analysis of drip waters further elucidated infiltration patterns, distinguishing contributions from winter and summer precipitation. These findings provide a robust foundation for interpreting speleothem-based proxies, offering valuable data on the interaction between anthropogenic influences and natural cave systems.
Microclimate and habitat heterogeneity as important drivers of soil Collembola in a karst collapse doline in the temperate zone
A decade-long study of Collembola communities in the karst collapse doline of Silická ľadnica Ice Cave, Slovakia, reveals that microclimate and habitat heterogeneity are key drivers of species distribution and resilience. Despite a regional trend of rising air temperatures and precipitation over 30 years, the collembolan communities remained stable, particularly at cold sites at the doline's bottom. No significant increase in xerothermophilous species or decline in psychrophilic, often endemic, species was observed, suggesting high community resilience. The study, conducted in 2007 and 2017, found significantly lower soil temperatures but higher abundances, species richness, and diversity during the latter period due to more favorable microclimatic conditions. Redundancy ordination analysis confirmed that soil temperature, pH, and C:N ratio were critical factors shaping community composition. These findings highlight karst dolines as potential refugia for biodiversity under global warming, emphasizing their conservation importance.
Speleogenesis in a lens of metamorphosed limestone and ankerite: Ochtiná Aragonite Cave, Slovakia
Ochtiná Aragonite Cave, located in the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcases a unique speleogenetic process driven by the interaction between metamorphosed limestone (marbles) and ankerite within phyllites. The cave's maze-like structure, characterized by parallel fault-controlled passages and chambers, formed through phreatic and epiphreatic solution morphologies, including flat ceilings, facets, and convection cupola-shaped depressions. Magnetostratigraphy and U-series dating reveal that sediment deposition began before 1.8 million years ago, with slow accumulation rates indicating confined conditions and limited surface water influence. The study highlights the cave's complex geological history, including the corrosion of older aragonite generations during Late Pleistocene humid episodes and the presence of younger, uncorroded aragonite dating back to less than 13.5 thousand years.
Geological Heritage, Geotourism and Local Development in Aggtelek National Park (NE Hungary)
Aggtelek National Park, encompassing the Aggtelek Karst, demonstrates how geoconservation and geotourism can drive local development in economically disadvantaged regions. The park's Triassic limestone and dolomite landscapes, characterized by diverse karst features including caves and dolines, were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995 due to their unique geological diversity. While Baradla Cave remains a significant tourist attraction, visitor numbers declined post-1985, highlighting the need for diversified geotourism strategies. Questionnaire surveys and interviews revealed that the park's presence has improved the relative socio-economic welfare of the region compared to neighboring areas. The study also explores the balance between geoconservation and bioconservation, emphasizing the potential for sustainable tourism to foster local development while preserving natural heritage.
Sedimentary anatomy and hydrological record of relic fluvial deposits in a karst cave conduit
A multidisciplinary analysis of relic fluvial deposits in the Demänová Cave System, part of the UNESCO-listed Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst, reveals unprecedented insights into the hydrological history of underground karst conduits. The study identifies 10 allostratigraphic units within a compound sidebar deposit, spanning from gravel to mud, and time-constrained by speleothem U-series isotopic dating. These deposits provide a detailed record of cave-floor sedimentation morphodynamics from the middle Pleistocene to the present, correlating with regional climate changes. Two distinct episodes of flow ponding are attributed to downstream cave-roof collapses, likely triggered by Carpathian post-orogenic earthquakes, adding a new dimension to the understanding of speleological processes and karst hydrology.
Surveying and High-Resolution Topography of the Ochtiná Aragonite Cave Based on TLS and Digital Photogrammetry
A groundbreaking survey of the Ochtiná Aragonite Cave, a UNESCO-listed karst phenomenon, reveals its intricate labyrinthine structure through advanced terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) and digital photogrammetry. The cave's unique morphology—characterized by parallel tectonic halls, phreatic passages, and small-scale solution features—was mapped with unprecedented accuracy, providing critical data on its morphometry, including ground plan area, surface volume, and spatial dimensions. TLS enabled rapid field surveys of complex areas, while digital photogrammetry delivered high-resolution models for detailed small-scale analysis. These findings not only advance the understanding of cave genesis but also offer a foundation for environmental protection and sustainable tourism management.
The Development of Geotourism with the Use of 3D Digital Cave Model. A Case Study of the Bear Cave, Slovakia
A groundbreaking approach to cave tourism leverages 3D digital modeling to make caves accessible without physical entry, addressing barriers for individuals with disabilities or claustrophobia while preserving the pristine environment. This study demonstrates the potential of geotourism through a detailed scan and model of the Bear Cave in Slovakia using Leica ScanStation C10 and Trimble RealWorks software, resulting in high-resolution visualizations and animations that enhance educational and recreational experiences. The method ensures minimal disturbance to sensitive cave ecosystems while offering immersive exploration via 3D projections and cinema.
Redescription of two troglobiotic species of Deuteraphorura Absolon, 1901 (Collembola, Onychiuridae) from the Western Carpathians
A detailed redescription of two troglobiotic species, Deuteraphorura kratochvili and D. schoenviszkyi, from the Western Carpathian caves reveals their unique morphological traits, including the absence of pseudocelli on thoracic tergum I and the presence of a male ventral organ on abdominal terga II–III. Both species are obligate cave-dwelling forms (troglobionts), restricted to subterranean environments. The study examines intraspecific variability in D. kratochvili from its type locality, Demänovská Cave System, while D. schoenviszkyi is redescribed based on specimens from both Slovak and Aggtelek Karst, where the type locality is situated. An identification key for Deuteraphorura species lacking pseudocelli on thoracic segment I is also provided, aiding in their taxonomic differentiation.
Distributional patterns of cave Collembola (Hexapoda) in association with habitat conditions, geography and subterranean refugia in the Western Carpathians
A study of 28 caves in the Western Carpathians, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst, reveals that southern and central karst regions serve as critical glacial refugia for subterranean fauna. The research identified 90 Collembola species, with 13 troglobiotic (obligate cave-dwelling) species concentrated in the southern and southeastern parts of the region. Species diversity correlated positively with internal air temperature but negatively with elevation and latitude, indicating environmental and geographic influences on distribution. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMS), cluster, and indicator value analyses further demonstrated distinct geographic patterns in Collembola communities, with northern areas showing lower diversity and no troglobiotic taxa.
Semi-automated recognition of planation surfacesand other flat landforms: a case study from theAggtelek Karst, Hungary
Researchers identified the r.geomorphon module as the most effective method for semi-automated recognition of planation surfaces and other flat landforms in the Aggtelek Karst, Hungary. These surfaces serve as morphological indicators of different evolutionary stages, correlating with cave levels formed under stagnant erosion base conditions. The study tested multiple methods, including slope gradient thresholding and r.param.scale modules, but found that r.geomorphon best delineated relatively flat surfaces corresponding to phases of the Jósva River incision. This approach offers a new tool for reconstructing the comprehensive evolution of karst landscapes, with implications for understanding similar geological formations in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Aggtelek Karst and Slovak Karst.
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