Let's talk about phytokarst (also known as photokarren).
For those that haven't seen these formations, they mostly form in the low-light entrance areas of tropical caves, and have been recorded in Mulu (Borneo) and Vietnam and Venezuela. They take the form of small (up to around 5cm long) spikes, rods or cones that appear to grow towards the light. However, in actual fact they are eroding away from the light. This process is thought to be related to the algae that colonizes them, however only a handful of studies have been conducted and relatively little is known about how they form.
I would be keen to hear from you if you have seen formations like these on your caving travels? Please comment below if you have seen similar formations along with where in the world you spotted them. If you can please also include a photo
For those that haven't seen these formations, they mostly form in the low-light entrance areas of tropical caves, and have been recorded in Mulu (Borneo) and Vietnam and Venezuela. They take the form of small (up to around 5cm long) spikes, rods or cones that appear to grow towards the light. However, in actual fact they are eroding away from the light. This process is thought to be related to the algae that colonizes them, however only a handful of studies have been conducted and relatively little is known about how they form.
I would be keen to hear from you if you have seen formations like these on your caving travels? Please comment below if you have seen similar formations along with where in the world you spotted them. If you can please also include a photo