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Montagnes et cascades de Haute-Guyane vénézuélienne (Mountains and waterfalls of the high Venezuelan Guiana)

1985; Association de Geographes Francais; Volume: 62; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.3406/bagf.1985.1307

2275-5195

Jean Demangeot,

Botany and Geology in Latin America and Caribbean

Abstract. - The High Venezuelan Guiana is partially a cristalline horst towered by a thick sandstone and quartzite cover. It is faulted in many blocks, which summits are called « tepuis ». The relief has been carved long ago, but tectonic rejuvenation is probable. Many karstic forms on, and in, siliceous outcrops are obvious. As in a classical calcareous karst we may distinguish a high temporary vadose water belt, and a low permanent one. When waterfalls are very high (Salto Angel, 900 m, in the Auyan Tepui), their cauldron is not eroded by cinetic energy of water but weathered by sprinkles.