Characterization of the karst system of Guapiara plateau (Paranapanema River Basin) and Paranapiacaba range (Ribeira River Basin) at Intervales State Park and surroundings, State of São Paulo

Abstract

At the boundaries between the geomorphologic domains of the Guapiara Plateau and Paranapiacaba Range, carbonate rocks of the Açungui Supergroup are present, with associated karst system development and the presence of caves and characteristic prominent features. The carbonate rocks of this region belong to the Lajeado Subgroup and, although relatively well studied, have not been the focus of previous studies on the karst system. Although, this region is of economic interest for local mining for the production of cement, as well as for touristic use by Conservation Units and local communities. It is known that karst terrains are highly susceptible areas to environmental and anthropogenic impacts. This project will provide a review of the geology of the carbonate rocks of the region, with an emphasis on stratigraphy, structure, petrography and lithogeochemistry, and the study of the karst at that site. In addition, we will analyze the environmental impacts caused by land use in the region, especially mining. Thus, we will be performing geological, geomorphological, speleological and environmental surveys with the necessary detail, aided by specialized literature on the issues involved. (AU)