Karstification and karst geomorphology in Denizli

This study aims to comprehensively examine the karst geomorphology of Denizli Province, located at the intersection of the Western Anatolian horst-graben system and the western edge of the Taurus Belt. Despite the region's rich karstic potential, the literature lacks integrative studies that address the general karst system in a holistic manner. In this study, existing research is supported by new observations and field investigations to reveal the spatial distribution, morphometric characteristics, and geothermal associations of karstic landforms at both macro and micro scales. Using data from the General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration (MTA) and the General Command of Mapping (HGM), thematic maps were produced; in areas such as dolines, collapse dolines, natural bridges, and caves, the photogrammetry method was applied based on images acquired via unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). During fieldwork, ten caves were measured and mapped in accordance with the BCRA 3C standard. The karstification processes active in Denizli were evaluated in light of the obtained data. Within the scope of the research, 844 solution dolines, 3 collapse dolines, 16 caves, and 2 ponors within the borders of Denizli Province were examined. The findings indicate that poljes, dolines, and caves have mostly developed in Mesozoic-aged limestones, while travertines, ponors, and tufa caves associated with geothermal activity are concentrated along the margins of the younger Quaternary-aged Çürüksu Graben. By presenting a holistic framework for the karst geomorphology of Denizli, this study documents the interaction between karst systems and geothermal processes and contributes new doline and cave formations to the scientific literature. Keywords: Karst Geomorphology, Speleology, Denizli