Virtual Cave

Lava flow characterized by ropy, billowy, bulbous textures. It is a Hawaiian word that literally means “smooth.” It is the type of flow most likely to produce lava tubes. Lava tubes are usually floored with pahoehoe, but that pahoehoe often grades into a more frothy, cauliflower a’a  floor.

The first photo is a classic example of ropy pahoehoe on a lava tube floor with a bit of glaze. The lower photo shows an unusual variant found in some tubes that this author calls dendritic pahoehoe, but is also a form of lava blade.  It may result from lava flowing over Pele’s hair.