Karst and Karrens in Albania

April 03, 2012

Karst and Karrens in Albania

Photographer: Attila Csernatoni
Summary Author: Attila Csernatoni; Jim Foster

The photo above shows an interesting karst landform known as a karren in the Dinaric Alps (northern Prokletije) of Albania. Karst terrain is characterized by the dissolution of carbonate bedrock, typically limestone. Karrens result when water runs down a rocky slope or rock face, dissolving the surface as it flows. On exposed landscapes in karst terrain, karrens are one of the most widespread features. In Albania, underground karst features are particularly abundant and may be expressed, for example, as well developed sinkholes, disappearing streams and caves.

Photo Details: Camera: NIKON D90; Focal Length: 17.0mm (35mm equivalent: 25mm); Aperture: f/18.0; Exposure Time: 0.0063 s (1/160); Software: Adobe Photoshop CS3 Windows.

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