Epikarst of Eastern part of Suva Planina Mt.: a new perspective defining from an integrated survey
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Abstract
Human interest in karst groundwater stems from the high-quality water that karst aquifers can accumulate. In Europe, 21.6% of the land is covered by carbonate rocks, with Serbia having 10.3% karst coverage. Understanding karst aquifers is essential for sustainable water management. The epikarst layer has higher water permeability and diffuse circulation. This study focuses on the Suva planina Mt. karst aquifer system and its “first” layer – epikarst. During the survey, an innovative methodology was employed, combining indirect methods like remote sensing with field techniques such as geomorphological research, hydrogeological and pikarst mapping, geophysical surveys, petrological/sedimentological research, and pedological studies. This combined approach yielded exceptionally good results. Using satellite imagery (remote sensing) helped define the general groundwater flow and the distribution of epikarst on the eastern slopes of Suva planina Mt. The epikarst potential (E) map created, guided further detailed field mapping, improving the understanding of the area's geology and geomorphology, and identified locations for geophysical surveys and sampling. Field geomorphological research refined the distribution and characteristics of the epikarst, with hydrogeological mapping on benchmark profiles providing on-site data. Four categories of epikarst were identified. Geophysical surveys using vertical electrical sounding offered insights into fractured and karstified zones up to 30-100 metres deep. Petrological research identified limestone types, while pedological analyses defined soil types and geochemical properties, highlighting the soil and epikarst's role in altering infiltrating water quality. Continued multidisciplinary research on Suva planina Mt. is essential for understanding groundwater systems. Enhanced geophysical methods and pre-field drone surveys are recommended for future studies, along with increased soil sampling from areas of diverse vegetation.
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References
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