Water Chemistry in the Gunung Mulu National Park Including Problems of Interpretation and Use

A broad, empirical model can be used to predict the major element chemical composition of most water samples found in the Park. The collection site and hydrological character of the sample are the main variables, with antecedent weather conditions as the most important modifying factor. The controls on the evolution of water sample chemistry are sketched, emphasizing chemical and hydrological factors. It emerges that the model is of little use for detailed studies of the site and quantity of solutional erosion because there are insufficient data available with which to deconvolute the combined effects of several possible chemical process controls operating on samples which progress through the hydrological network by different routes, and at different rates, before mixing. Some attention is given to the importance of organic matter in karst development. Some uses to which the data available can be put are discussed briefly.