A Geomorphological Study on The Micro Karst Landform Diversity of a Limestone Cave: A Case Study of Waulpane Cave, Ratnapura District

Abstract: Karsts are the result of complex interactions between geology, climate, hydrology, and biological factors over long periods of time. These landscapes comprise a variety of surface and subterranean landforms formed primarily through the dissolution of soluble rocks, especially limestone. The dissolution process creates unique surface features and intricate networks of underground cavities, while the deposition of calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) forms secondary mineral deposits known as speleothems. Sri Lanka is home to several limestone caves, with the Waulpane limestone cave in the Ratnapura District being one of the most significant. This study focuses on identifying the diversity and distribution of micro karst landforms within the Waulpane cave. Both primary and secondary sources were used in the study; primary sources included direct observations, interviews, and sample collections, while secondary sources, such as literary materials, provided additional context and information. Research findings revealed a variety of speleothems such as stalactites, stalagmites, drapery-like formations, and karren features present on the walls, ceiling, and floor of the cave. These formations vary widely in size and morphology. Some stalactites resemble bulbs, cones, leaves, and pillars, while others take shapes akin to pencils, wall lamps, arches, hourglasses, and flower petals. Most of these features are concentrated in the central part of the cave, where environmental conditions are most favourable for their development. The formation of these features is influenced by several interrelated factors, including the calcium carbonate-rich spring water, local climate, topography, vegetation cover, hydrological patterns, and the spatial distribution of limestone.