fluvial pothole

geology

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

A fluvial pothole is a circular hole found in the rocky bed of a river. These geological formations are created by the abrasive action of stones or gravel being whirled around by the flowing water. Essentially, the water acts as a natural drill, using sediment to grind away at the bedrock over time.1

While the term "pothole" can also refer to depressions in land or holes in roads, in a geological context, it specifically describes these water-carved features in riverbeds.1

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moulin
…same as that of a fluvial pothole, the moulin pothole can be distinguished by its location. Moulin potholes have been found on hilltops and steep slopes and may occur scattered over a valley floor, without the kind of alignment that occurs when streams are involved. A moulin is noted for…
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…same as that of a fluvial pothole, the moulin pothole can be distinguished by its location. Moulin potholes have been found on hilltops and steep slopes and may occur scattered over a valley floor, without the kind of alignment that occurs when streams are involved. A moulin is noted for…
Read More