A spelaeologist is a professional who explores and studies caves, examining their geological features, fauna and flora, and traces of human history. Some synonyms for spelaeologist include caver, cave explorer, speleologist, cave scientist, and underground researcher. These terms essentially relate to the same general field of study, focusing on the study and exploration of caves and related underground features. Other related fields include geology, paleontology, and archaeology, which all provide additional perspectives on the geologic formations, fossils, and artifacts that can be found in caves. Whether you are interested in spelunking as a hobby or pursuing a career in science, there are ample resources and communities available to support your passion for caves and the natural world.