Sustainable development of geological resources: the Characteristics of Red Karst Landscape and Tourism Development in Tongren, Guizhou

Abstract

<abstract> <p>China is rich in karst resources and famous for its karst landscape. As a part of karst, the popularity of red karst is obviously low and has received little attention; moreover, the related scientific research and tourism development are relatively immature. Therefore, this paper takes the red karst in Tongren, Guizhou as the research object, analyzes the characteristics and causes of the red karst, comprehensively evaluates its landscape value, and puts forward development strategies and protection suggestions. Through the above research, the following three research results are obtained. (1) On the basis of a field investigation and a literature review, the geographical situation, background, and landscape characteristics of the red karst landform and its surrounding areas in Tongren City were investigated in detail. It forms isolated peaks, rock walls, protruding rocks, stone pillars, and other forms. The most prominent features of the red karst landscape in Tongren City are that the color is red and white, and the shape is concave and convex in order. (2) Geochemical test and structural data collection and analyses of the collected samples were performed. The obtain concave layer rock is dolomitic limestone, and that convex lay rock is argillaceous dolomitic limestone. Because the convex layer rock sample is high in silicon element content, the convex layer rock sample is not easy to be weathered, is rich in clay mineral, and is not easy to be corrode; the convex layer rock sample gradually protrudes with the passage of time to form an uneven shape. The red karst landform is developed in either the rock stratum or tectonic zone with moderate tectonic deformation intensity. First, the formation of a single-layer honeycomb morphology requires that the rock stratum is subjected to a sufficient horizontal compressive stress at a certain burial depth. Second, it is necessary to widely exist in areas with relatively gentle rock formation occurrence; too strong of a structural deformation will make the rock formation occurrence steep, which is not conducive to the occurrence of differential dissolution between adjacent strata. (3) Through the construction of an evaluation index system, the red karst in Tongren City is evaluated, and it is concluded that the geological heritage value is high, and the development and utilization conditions are weak. The conclusion of this article is a supplement to the geological and geomorphological system characteristics of southern karst. From the perspective of world natural heritage, the study enriches the academic evidence of red karst and enables its exemplary role to be well played. From the perspective of the tourism development value, more people should be made aware of the diverse types of karst landforms, which provide experience and suggestions for the value of landforms, tourism resources, and tourism development in similar areas.</p> </abstract>