Volcanic Phenomena in Borneo

Abstract

MR. WALLACE, in his work on the “Geographical Distribution of Animals,” has the remark that no volcano, active or extinct, is known to exist within the area of the island of Borneo, notwithstanding that it is almost environed by a volcanic belt in full activity at a short distance. In fact, it seems to be generally understood that this vast island now represents, and has continued to represent for long past time, a perfectly quiescent area in so far as manifestations of subterranean energies are concerned. This view is doubtless strictly correct in regard to the existence of any volcanic vent which is now in action, or which has been so within the historical period; but it would be erroneous to deduce from it, as seems natural to do at first sight, the inference that the area is one of entire quiescence, or that it has been so free from volcanic action in any but the most recent times.