Mapping and interpretation of karst landforms: dolines and depressions, their significance and hydrological functioning

Karst landscapes are strongly controlled by lithological and tectonic factors, that are crucial elements to control the rate of development of the solution process. In lowland karst, identification of the original landforms is heavily complicated, due to the subtle morphologies, and the likely interactions with man and his actions. In many cases, karst landforms may be easily modified or cancelled by human activities. The present article aims at highlighting the difficulties in the identification, mapping and interpretation of the most significant landforms in the karst of Apulia, including dolines of different origin, depressions, and different types of karst valleys. We will stress the need to make an effort in combining what is visible at the ground surface with the subterranean features (caves, shafts, etc.). This latter point is extremely important as concerns the hydrological functioning of the karst landforms, especially on the occasion of the most significant rainfall events. Through the description of karst geomorphological maps from different sectors of the Apulian karst, in southern Italy, we will discuss the problems in mapping these features and the importance in understanding their functioning.