Abstract:

In karst geomorphology, poljes constitute the largest surface karst. Poles formed as a result of long-term or rapid karstification develop under the control of many different factors, such as the control of structural elements and fluvial processes. In this context, the Çeltikçi Polje System Basin, which forms a part of the Kestel Polje System located within the Western Taurus Poljes, was examined in detail. This study aims to explain the tectonic and geomorphological development of the poljes in the field and to reveal the parameters that are effective in the formation and development of these shapes, their degree of influence, and their morphometric properties. In this context, the Digital Elevation Model (DEM), geology and geomorphology maps of the field were created in the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) environment from the maps obtained from the General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration and the General Directorate of Mapping. According to the data obtained during field studies, the research area consists of shapes and structures belonging to relief systems belonging to the Upper Miocene, Pliocene and Pleistocene periods. The most important shapes of this period are the shapes formed by karstification. The presence of carbonate rocks suitable for dissolution in the research area and the solvent properties of water along with these rocks and the presence of suitable climate and vegetation conditions have enabled the formation of poljes of different sizes and locations in the area. As a matter of fact, there are 7 poljes in different locations and features in the study area with an area of 277 km². Almost all of these poljes were developed at the contact points of karstic rocks and partially karstic and non-karstic rocks. Some of these have also developed along thrust lines or on normal faults. According to the morphometric analyzes carried out to determine and evaluate the formal characteristics of these karst depressions, it was understood that the majority of the poljes had lost their circularity and were in elongated forms.