Lakes in Gypsum Karst: Some Examples in Alpine and Mediterranean Countries

Abstract

Numerous lakes of varying types have been studied in these areas. Their origin proceeds from the geomorphological processes in the gypsum karst: land subsidence or collapses in relation with the active dissolution of the gypsum and other evaporites, particularly in depth, at the groundwater level.

Most are small lakes, often ephemeral ponds in the alpine gypsum karsts, or flooded sinkholes in alluvial plains, in keeping with the fluctuations of the water-table. However, in the Mediterranean lands and Central Europa, some lacustrine basins are more important expanse; they arise from a complex evolution, and put various environmental problems. So are particularly studied the case of the lake of Besse in Provence, and in comparison the problems of the lakes of Pergusa (Sicily) and Banyoles (Catalonia).