Objects of geological heritage of Russia in karstified sedimentary complexes: Features, variety, problems of study and safe-keeping

In the paper the need for comprehensive study of karstified territories (including caves) in lithogenic aspect to identify among them objects of geological heritage of Russia and their entry in the online Help and search system www//geomem/ru is substantiated. The sizes, numbers and areal distribution of caves under karstified territories of Russian Federation and their representation in the mentioned system among the nine types of Unique Geological Objects (UGO) are shown. It is concluded that there is a significant number of highly informative lithogenic-type natural objects which unfortunately very little use in the status of UGO of Russia. For that reason they are not being used as tourist attractions or educational exhibits, and are not protected by environmental legislation