A hidden ancient forest has been uncovered deep within a massive sinkhole in China’s Leye-Fengshan Global Geopark, buried an astonishing 630 feet below the surface. This remarkable discovery adds to the region’s reputation for stunning geological formations, as such sinkholes are not uncommon in this area. Scientists believe that the unique environment inside the sinkhole may have preserved plant and animal species for thousands of years.
Situated in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, this geopark is recognized by UNESCO for its extensive cave networks and the world’s longest natural bridge. According to UNESCO’s records, the region primarily consists of sedimentary rock, with over 60 percent of its 3,000-meter-thick layers composed of Devonian to Permian carbonate formations. These rock layers date back hundreds of millions of years and hold significant geological importance.
The site is shaped like an ‘S’ and features a rhombus-like configuration, influencing the paths of two major subterranean rivers, the Bailang and Poyue. Additionally, the Buliuhe River formed between these two underground waterways. Over time, these rivers have sculpted the landscape, creating an array of geological wonders, including towering karst peaks, sinkholes known as tiankengs, massive cave chambers, and intricate speleothems. Other noteworthy features include fault zones, ancient fossils—such as those of the giant panda—and an important Neogene stratigraphic section, which helps scientists understand the region’s prehistoric climate and environment.
The Leye-Fengshan Global Geopark provides a rare glimpse into the development of karst landscapes. Home to some of the world’s most visually striking karst formations, it boasts the highest concentration of tiankengs and the largest known cave chambers. The presence of the world’s longest natural bridges further enhances its geological significance. Karst formations develop over thousands or even millions of years due to the slow erosion of limestone and other soluble rocks, creating intricate underground cave systems and sinkholes.
Karst terrain, characterized by soluble bedrock, often leads to the formation of sinkholes through natural erosion. These landscapes develop as water gradually dissolves the rock, either from above or below the surface, creating vast underground caverns and openings. Rainwater, slightly acidic due to carbon dioxide absorption from the soil, seeps into the cracks of the limestone. Over time, this process widens the cracks, eventually causing portions of the ground to collapse, forming massive sinkholes like the one found in Leye-Fengshan.
A major new sinkhole was identified in May 2022. This enormous cavity stretches over 1,000 feet in length, approximately 490 feet in width, and plunges to a depth of nearly 630 feet. Within its depths, scientists have uncovered an ancient forest filled with towering trees and rare plant species, some of which may be previously undocumented by science. The depth of the sinkhole has likely provided a stable climate, allowing unique flora and fauna to thrive in isolation for thousands of years.
The interior of the sinkhole features three cave entrances, further hinting at an expansive underground network. Expedition leader Chen Lixin expressed optimism about the discovery, stating that entirely new species could be hidden within these caves. Some of the trees found inside the sinkhole reach heights of nearly 130 feet, forming a lush, untouched ecosystem. Thick foliage covers the floor, while vines drape over the rocky walls, adding to the surreal beauty of this underground world.
George Veni, a specialist from the National Cave and Karst Research Institute, shared insights into the unique nature of karst formations. He explained that the appearance of karst landscapes can differ greatly depending on factors such as climate and geography. While some areas feature dramatic sinkholes and vast caverns, others display only subtle surface changes, such as small depressions or narrow crevices.
In regions like southern China, the karst terrain is particularly striking, with immense sinkholes and expansive cave systems shaping the environment. The process of sinkhole formation begins with slightly acidic rainwater seeping into the ground. As the water absorbs carbon dioxide from the soil, its acidity increases, gradually dissolving the underlying rock. Over time, the rock fractures widen into underground tunnels and chambers. When these cavities grow large enough, the ceiling collapses, giving rise to a sinkhole.
This latest discovery marks the 30th known sinkhole in the region, further cementing China’s status as a global leader in karst landscapes. Notably, the world’s largest sinkhole is also found in China—Xiaozhai Tiankeng. This enormous chasm measures an incredible 2,100 feet in depth, 2,000 feet in length, and 1,760 feet in width. With a waterfall cascading into its depths, this breathtaking formation appears almost otherworldly, reminiscent of landscapes found in fantasy worlds or video games.
The Leye-Fengshan sinkhole discovery has captivated researchers and nature enthusiasts worldwide. Scientists plan to conduct further expeditions to map the cave system and document the biodiversity within. It is believed that this sinkhole may house undiscovered animal species, including rare insects, amphibians, and possibly even small mammals that have adapted to this unique ecosystem.
Apart from its biological significance, the sinkhole also holds cultural and historical importance. Many sinkholes in China are linked to local legends and folklore, with some being regarded as sacred sites. The people living near the Leye-Fengshan region have long shared tales of mysterious creatures and spirits residing within these deep caverns. Whether based on real observations or pure imagination, these stories add an element of mystique to the already fascinating sinkhole.
Additionally, sinkholes like this provide valuable insights into climate change and geological activity. By studying the sediments and fossilized remains found within, scientists can reconstruct past climates and better understand how ecosystems have evolved over time. The preservation of plant life within the sinkhole also allows researchers to analyze how vegetation adapts to isolated and extreme environments.
The discovery of this massive sinkhole and its hidden forest is a reminder of how much remains unexplored on our planet. It highlights the importance of conservation efforts to protect fragile ecosystems and geological wonders. While many parts of the world are being rapidly developed, places like Leye-Fengshan serve as natural time capsules, preserving the beauty and mystery of ancient landscapes.
As researchers continue to explore this hidden ecosystem, new and fascinating discoveries may emerge, shedding light on unknown plant and animal species thriving in one of Earth’s most mysterious landscapes. The world will be watching as scientists uncover the secrets of this remarkable geological wonder.
