Karst geomorphology of the White Limestone Group

The karst geomorphology of the White Limestone Group of Jamaica is reviewed. The lithological and structural characteristics of the White Limestone Group are examined in relation to its karstification, specifically material properties such as purity, petrology, porosity and mechanical strength, which have been regarded as important in the development of karst landforms. The structural setting and palaeogeography during the deposition of the White Limestone, together with subsequent block faulting, are considered in relation to the origin and evolution of the karst topography. The phenomenon of case-hardening is examined as are the dissolution processes and influences related to the presence of a soil cover. The karst features on the White Limestone Group are considered in two categories; small-scale dissolution sculpturing phenomena, collectively termed karren, and larger scale landforms. The latter can be further divided into karst landform assemblages comprising doline, cockpit and tower karst. Cockpit karst is the most common landform unit on the White Limestone Group, and occurs on the harder crystalline limestones, dolostones and where case-hardening is important. Tower karst occurs on similar lithologies, but has a more restricted distribution. Doline karst is largely restricted to the chalky Montpelier Formation. The geomorphological characteristics of each landform type are described and their origin discussed. Other karst landforms include poljes, ridge karst, glades and a range of fluviokarst, each of which are described. The cave systems and underground rivers are also considered. Karst morphometric studies and theories of landform evolution are reviewed.