ABSTRACT
Karst areas are diversely rich in resources, yet are the world’s most vulnerable landscapes to environmental impacts. The Earth’s most productive springs and water wells occur in karst. The space provided by caves often provides habitats for rare and unusual species, serving as models of evolution and ecosystem development. Other species, such as bats, are internationally important as pollinators, seed dispersers, and controllers of crop and other insect pests. Hydrologically inactive caves offer stable environments that preserve many of the greatest archaeological and paleontological sites from the elements that would destroy them on the surface. Caves and surface karst terrains provide a wealth of recreational and scenic attractions. Paleokarst areas often contain tremendous deposits of oil, lead, zinc, and other fuels and minerals. The karstic bedrock itself, usually limestone, is often quarried for use in construction.
