Speleology to cave science in the world. The growth of speleology is directly linked with that of the sport of caving, both because of the stimulation of public interest and awareness, and the fact that most speleological field-work has been conducted by sport cavers. The creation of an accurate, detailed map is one of the most common technical activities undertaken within a cave. Cave maps, called "surveys", can be used to compare caves to each other by length, depth and volume, may reveal clues on speleogenesis, provide a spatial reference for further scientific study, and assist visitors with route-finding. Caves provide
International Journal of Speleology International Journal of Speleology The International Journal of Speleology is since 1978 the official peer-reviewed scientific journal of the "Union Internationale de Spéléologie". Since 1981 it has been published by the Società Speleologica Italiana. The "International Journal of Speleology" is divided into four sections: Botany-Microbiology, Zoology, Geology-Geomorphology, and Abstract-News. The first issue was edited by G. Claus (US), subsequently two other editors were added: R. Husson (France) and G Nicholas (USA). The first two volumes were published by the J. Kramer Verlag (Germany), followed by Swets & Zeitlinger N.V. (The Netherlands). In 1972 R. Husson became editor in chief and