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Saturday, July 26, 2025

Ancient forest discovered at the depths of massive sinkhole

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Imagine stumbling upon an ancient, untouched forest thriving in complete secrecy beneath the Earth’s surface. Deep in southern China, researchers have made an astonishing discovery: a colossal sinkhole stretching 630 feet deep, harboring a mysterious underground jungle.

A Lost World Revealed

Nature never ceases to amaze. Just when it seems like humanity has explored every corner of the planet, new wonders emerge. One such remarkable find in 2022 left the world in awe—a massive chasm in China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, concealing a primeval forest that had remained untouched for centuries.

Measuring over 1,000 feet in length and nearly 630 feet in depth, this immense sinkhole is large enough to engulf St. Louis’ Gateway Arch. However, its true marvel lies not in its sheer size, but in the ancient ecosystem flourishing within. Hidden from modern civilization, this secluded world may even be home to previously undiscovered plant and animal species.

A Descent Into the Unknown

Led by seasoned cave explorer Chen Lixin, a team of researchers used a single-rope technique to rappel more than 328 feet into the sinkhole before navigating the dense terrain below. What they encountered was nothing short of extraordinary—towering trees reaching 130 feet high, their branches stretching toward the sunlight filtering through the vast opening above. Thick undergrowth brushed against the explorers’ shoulders as they made their way through the lush environment.

Upon reaching the lowest point of the sinkhole, the team was met with a breathtaking sight—a family of eagles soaring above, their presence inspiring the name “The Eagle” for this hidden world.

Unveiling Nature’s Secrets

Drone footage from the expedition captured the stunning landscape, sparking excitement about the possibility of undiscovered species. In June 2022, scientists returned with an expanded research team and a television crew, uncovering additional caves and evidence of an ancient underground river. One particularly striking find was a small turquoise lake, hinting at the presence of thriving wildlife.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if new species were discovered here,” said George Veni, executive director of the National Cave and Karst Research Institute in the U.S.

A Geological Marvel Shaped Over Millennia

Believed to have formed over the past 100,000 years, the sinkhole is a result of China’s distinctive karst topography—a landscape sculpted by the slow dissolution of bedrock. Over time, rainwater seeps through cracks, gradually expanding them into tunnels and caverns. When these underground chambers collapse, enormous sinkholes—known as “tiankeng” or “heavenly pits” in Mandarin—are born.

Unlike the smaller sinkholes found in other regions, China’s karst formations are among the most dramatic on Earth. The country is home to record-breaking sinkholes, including the Xiaozhai Tiankeng, which plunges more than 2,000 feet into the depths of Chongqing’s Tiankeng Difeng National Park.

More Than Just a Geological Wonder

Beyond their visual grandeur, sinkholes play a crucial role in Earth’s ecosystems. Karst aquifers beneath these formations serve as primary water sources for nearly 700 million people worldwide. However, their accessibility makes them vulnerable to pollution, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts.

The newly discovered sinkhole in Leye County marks the 30th of its kind in the region, adding to China’s already impressive collection of geological wonders. With each discovery, scientists uncover more about the hidden world beneath our feet—one that continues to surprise and inspire.

Telha
Telhahttps://www.facebook.com/leskuthesshop/
Florida Telha is a contributor to the online platform Viral Strange, where she authors articles on a variety of topics, including celebrity news, human interest stories, and viral content. Her work encompasses a range of subjects, from entertainment news to unique personal narratives.
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