Scientists stumble upon prehistoric ecosystem in Leye-Fengshan Global Geopark

In a remarkable exploration beneath the earth’s surface, scientists have unearthed a hidden treasure—an ancient forest nestled 630 feet below ground level within a sinkhole in China.

Venturing into the depths of the Leye-Fengshan Global Geopark in China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, a team of researchers stumbled upon a sinkhole that unveiled a fascinating secret dating back centuries.

Initially discovered in May 2022, the sinkhole, measuring over 1,000 feet in length, 490 feet in width, and nearly 630 feet in depth, revealed more than just geological wonders. Alongside the impressive dimensions, the sinkhole harboured an ancient forest, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Amidst the towering trees, researchers also identified three colossal cave entrances, hinting at the possibility of undiscovered species inhabiting these subterranean realms.

Sinkholes and caves, characteristic of the karst terrain prevalent in southern China, serve as vital ecosystems, providing refuge for diverse forms of life and contributing to agricultural sustainability.

Described by UNESCO as a “territory of caves,” the Leye-Fengshan Global Geopark boasts an intricate karst landscape, featuring the world’s longest natural bridge and showcasing the geological wonders sculpted over millennia.

Speaking to Live Science, expedition leader Chen Lixin expressed excitement about the potential discovery of species yet unknown to science within these cavernous environments. Additionally, the presence of towering trees reaching heights of nearly 130 feet underscores the ecological richness of the ancient forest.

George Veni, executive director of the National Cave and Karst Research Institute, highlighted the unique characteristics of China’s karst topography, where expansive sinkholes and caverns punctuate the landscape. The formation of sinkholes, attributed to the dissolution of bedrock by slightly acidic rainwater, unveils the intricate interplay between geological processes and environmental factors.

While the sinkhole discovered in the Leye-Fengshan Global Geopark marks a significant find, it is just one among many in the region, each offering insights into Earth’s geological history and biodiversity.

Notably, the Xiaozhai Tiankeng sinkhole reigns as the world’s largest, housing a plethora of plant and animal species within its expansive depths. With its awe-inspiring dimensions and natural marvels, including a cascading waterfall, the Tiankeng epitomizes the splendor of China’s karst landscapes.

As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries concealed beneath the earth’s surface, the discovery of the ancient forest serves as a testament to the enduring allure of exploration and the boundless wonders of the natural world.