Monte Albo
| Monte Albo | |
|---|---|
Monte Albo seen from Su Tempiesu (Orune) | |
| Highest point | |
| Peak | Punta Catirina/Monte Turuddo |
| Elevation | 1,127 m (3,698 ft) |
| Coordinates | 40°32′N 9°35′E / 40.533°N 9.583°E |
| Naming | |
| Native name | Monte Albu, Monte Arbu (Sardinian) |
| Geography | |
| Country | Italy |
| Region | Sardinia |
The Monte Albo (Monte Arbu in Sardinian) is a limestone massif 20 kilometres (12 mi) in length in the central eastern portion of Island of Sardinia, Italy. Punta Catirina and Monte Turuddo, both at 1,127 metres (0.700 mi), are the highest points. The massif forms a prominent hogback ridge characterized by dramatic vertical cliffs on its northwestern flank and extensive karst features, including sinkholes, collapse features, and underground water systems. Monte Albo's geological composition consists primarily of Middle Jurassic to Lower Cretaceous limestones and dolostones deposited on a Palaeozoic metamorphic basement, which have been uplifted and tilted by tectonic forces. The mountain is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, hosting 18 amphibian and reptile species, including 8 endemic taxa such as the Monte Albo cave salamander, which is found exclusively in this massif.