How does karst erosion shape limestone areas of the Apennines?

In the limestone areas of the Apennines, karst erosion is a primary force in shaping the landscape. This process is characterized by the action of water, which wears away the soluble rock to create distinct geological features. Specifically, karst erosion in these regions manifests through the formation of crevasses and other surface irregularities carved by water action.1

Unlike landscapes shaped by surface stream valleys, karst topography is defined by the removal of bedrock through solution and the development of underground drainage systems. This results in a rugged terrain where the physical geography is heavily influenced by the rock's resistance to water. While the Apennines exhibit a variety of rock types, these calcareous areas are notable for these specific erosive patterns, which contribute to the range's overall juvenile stage in the cycle of erosion.21