Journal of Cave and Karst Studies - ISSN 1090-6924
Volume 62 Number 2: 147-157 - August 2000

A publication of the National Speleological Society

Extraordinary features of Lechuguilla Cave, Guadalupe Mountains, New Mexico
Donald G. Davis

Abstract

Many unusual features are displayed in Lechuguilla Cave, Guadalupe Mountains, New Mexico, U.S.A. Early speleogenic features related to a sulfuric acid origin of the cave include acid lake basins and subterranean karren fields. Speleogenetic deposits, also products of sulfuric acid origin, include gypsum “glaciers” and sulfur masses. Features related to convective atmospheric phenomena in the cave include corrosion residues, rimmed vents, and horizontal corrosion/deposition lines. Speleothems of nonstandard origin include rusticles, pool fingers, subaqueous helictites, common-ion-effect stalactites, chandeliers, long gypsum hair, hydromagnesite fronds, folia, and raft cones. Other unusual features discussed are silticles and splash rings.

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