abandoned mines, slate mine, microclimate, geodiversity, biodiversity, petrography, Nízký Jeseník Upland

Abandoned and derelict historical mines may present future geohazards for the landscape, urban residences, and other buildings. On the other hand, they could have potential use as tourism objects, science laboratories, museums, historical monuments, etc. The Nízký Jeseník Upland in the Czech Republic (Europe) is an area well known for historical clayey slate processing (mainly between the 18th and 20th centuries). In this case, we present a study from Odry, where the abandoned Flaschar's slate mine is situated. This mine is one of the largest slate mines in the Nízký Jeseník Upland. Geologically, the slate has been greatly affected by tectonic forces, as can be proven by the existence of folds and hydrothermal mineralization (Q-veins with Pb-Ag mineralization) within the mine. The dip direction and dip angle of the unfolded beds are generally 304/32. Within Flaschar's mine, various processes have been revealed, such as weathering and gravitational processes including exfoliation of the walls, rockfall, subsidence, collapse, and degradation of the pillars. Therefore, we can document results from long-term geologic processes and from short-term geomorphic processes. The mine provides information, as well. Flaschar's mine reveals rich geo-diversity and more or less bio-diversity. There are phenomena such as karstification and deposit formation (dripstones or sinters), secondary mineralization (pyrite, gypsum, calcite, etc.) and Fe oxide (limonite) formation occurring in the mine; these phenomena might have a biogenic origin. Due to the air circulation within the mine, a dynamic microclimate developed. Flas char's mine provides a shelter for various types of overwintering bats. It is a suitable habitat for a population of insects, fungi and microbial life. In Flashar's mine, it is possible to observe an example of the processes and changes that could occur in an abandoned mine without human influence. This research was carried out before the locality was open to touri