What is the difference between a stalactite and a stalagmite? Most stalagmites have rounded or flattened tips There are many other types of mineral formations found in caves Some deposits are named based on their appearances, such as a showerhead, which is a hollow cone-shaped formation, or a conulite, which is a “splash cup” that forms when water dripping rapidly through the cave ceiling flings
NOAA Ocean Explorer: Bermuda: Search for Deep Water Caves 2009 Divers swim between massive submerged stalagmites in Crystal Cave, Bermuda Such stalactites and stalagmites were formed during glacial periods of lowered sea level when the caves were dry and air-filled Image courtesy of Bermuda: Search for Deep Water Caves 2009 Related Links Bermuda 2009 Bermuda 2009: Origin of Bermuda and its Caves
Bermuda Cave Geology - NOAA Ocean Exploration Some of these passages show evidence of subterranean river flow carrying runoff from Harrington Sound towards the ocean during periods of lower sea level (Fig 2) Massive stalactites and stalagmites are present in virtually all parts of the underwater cave and are another indication of the cave's long history as a dry cave (Fig 3)
Origin of Bermuda and Its Caves - NOAA Ocean Exploration This acidic groundwater acted to dissolve the limestone, forming lateral voids Over time, the dissolution process enlarged these voids to form liner conduits, caves, and underground lakes Dripping water created massive stalactites and stalagmites in all parts of Bermuda caves (figure 3)
NOAA Ocean Explorer The massive edifices, shingled beehive-like structures, and growths reminiscent of inverted stalagmites have yielded a magical enchantment with this site, like no other yet visited Viewed from 100 feet away, the chimneys are ghostly in appearance, bathed in a soft blue light bounded by the dark of the deep
To Make a Cave - NOAA Ocean Exploration cave Most stalagmites have rounded or flattened tips • Splattermite is an informal name for a type of stalagmite that has plate-shaped upright protrusions that arc around a central axis The formation is the result of drops that splash off of a stalagmite’s growing tip Splattermites only form where
Photo Video Log - NOAA Ocean Exploration Photo Video Log This page contains photos and videos regarding the Bermuda: Search for Deep Water Caves 2009 exploration, taking place this year from September 5 to September 30