Leviathan Cave

Leviathan Cave is an extensive cave system in Nevada, known for its long underground passages.

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Leviathan Cave geology: The geological structure and formation history of Leviathan Cave. The cave’s underground passages are shaped by the rocks and processes recorded in its geology.
Karst: Terrain formed by the dissolution of soluble rocks and characterized by caves and underground drainage. Karst processes can create the kinds of subterranean passages found in cave systems.
Caving: The recreational and exploratory activity of traveling through caves. Caving provides a direct way to investigate passages and underground features.
Cave exploration: The investigation of cave passages and features through fieldwork. Exploration can reveal passages or features not yet documented in a cave survey.
Leviathan Cave map: A surveyed representation of Leviathan Cave’s passages and features. Mapping conveys the extent and layout that distinguish the cave.
Cave formation: The geological processes that create underground cavities and passage networks. This broader process explains how a cave such as Leviathan develops.
Speleology: The scientific study and exploration of caves and cave environments. Leviathan Cave is an example of the systems studied by speleologists.
Cave biology: The study of organisms that live in caves and their ecological adaptations. Underground habitats may support life adapted to darkness and limited resources.
Nevada caves: Caves and cave systems located within the state of Nevada. Leviathan Cave belongs to Nevada’s wider collection of subterranean systems.
Limestone: A sedimentary rock composed chiefly of calcium carbonate. Limestone dissolves in weakly acidic water and commonly hosts extensive cave passages.