Latest Articles from Subterranean Biology Latest 34 Articles from Subterranean Biology https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/ Fri, 29 Mar 2024 15:55:42 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from Subterranean Biology https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/ A new species of Stygobromus Cope, 1872 (Amphipoda, Crangonyctidae) from a hypotelminorheic seepage spring in Washington, D.C., USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/112984/ Subterranean Biology 48: 117-146

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.48.112984

Authors: Matthew L. Niemiller, Andrew G. Cannizzaro, Thomas R. Sawicki, David C. Culver

Abstract: We describe a new species of subterranean amphipod (Amphipoda: Crangonyctidae) in the genus Stygobromus from a hypotelminorheic seepage spring at Shepherd Parkway, part of National Capital East Parks, Washington, D.C., USA, part of the National Park System, using both morphological and genetic approaches. The Anacostia Groundwater Amphipod, S. anacostensis sp. nov. is a member of the S. tenuis species group but differs from related congeners based on body size, serrate blade-like edge of both palms of gnathopods 1 and 2, presence of rastellate setae on the posterodistal margin of the carpus of gnathopod 2, and aspects of the second antennae, mandibular palp, pereopods 5–7, uropods 1 and 2, and telson. Moreover, S. anacostensis sp. nov. is genetically distinct from S. tenuis in the Washington D.C. metropolitan area. The description of S. anacostensis sp. nov. increases the number of described Stygobromus species to eight in the Washington D.C. area and highlights the need for continued biodiversity studies, even in regions that have received considerable attention.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 15 Feb 2024 23:21:34 +0200
Phylogenetic systematics of the enigmatic genus Horologion Valentine, 1932 (Coleoptera, Carabidae, Trechinae, Horologionini), with description of a new species from Bath County, Virginia https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/114404/ Subterranean Biology 48: 1-49

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.48.114404

Authors: Curt W. Harden, Robert L. Davidson, Thomas E. Malabad, Michael S. Caterino, David R. Maddison

Abstract: Horologion Valentine, one of the rarest and most enigmatic carabid beetle genera in the world, was until now known only from the holotype of Horologion speokoites Valentine, discovered in 1931 in a small cave in West Virginia. A single specimen of a new species from Virginia was collected in 1991, but overlooked until 2018. DNA sequence data from specimens of this new species, Horologion hubbardi sp. nov., collected in 2022 and 2023, as well as a critical examination of the external morphology of both species, allow us to confidently place Horologion in the supertribe Trechitae, within a clade containing Bembidarenini and Trechini. A more specific placement as sister to the Gondwanan Bembidarenini is supported by DNA sequence data. Previous hypotheses placing Horologion in or near the tribes Anillini, Tachyini, Trechini, Patrobini, and Psydrini are rejected. The existence of two species of Horologion on opposite sides of the high mountains of the middle Appalachians suggests that these mountains are where the ancestral Horologion populations dispersed from, and predicts the discovery of additional populations and species. All specimens of H. hubbardi were collected in or near drip pools, and most were found dead, suggesting that the terrestrial epikarst, rather than caves, is the true habitat of Horologion, which explains their extreme rarity since epikarst has not been directly sampled. We recognize the tribe Horologionini, a relict lineage without any close relatives known in the Northern Hemisphere, and an important part of Appalachian biodiversity.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 8 Jan 2024 09:17:56 +0200
Two new phreatic snails (Mollusca, Caenogastropoda, Cochliopidae) from the Edwards and Edwards-Trinity aquifers, Texas https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/113186/ Subterranean Biology 47: 1-27

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.47.113186

Authors: Kathryn E. Perez, Yamileth Guerrero, Roel Castañeda, Peter H. Diaz, Randy Gibson, Benjamin Schwartz, Benjamin T. Hutchins

Abstract: The Edwards and Edwards-Trinity Aquifers of Texas have diverse stygofauna, including fifteen species of snails found in phreatic and hyporheic habitats. These species have the hallmarks of adaptation to subterranean environments including extremely small body size and the loss of pigmentation and eyes. Here we use an integrative taxonomic approach, using shell, radula, and anatomical features as well as mitochondrial and nuclear DNA data, to circumscribe a new genus and two new cavesnail species from Central Texas. Vitropyrgus lillianae gen. et sp. nov. is described from Comal Springs (Comal County) and Fessenden Springs (Kerr County) and distinguished by a glassy, highly sculptured shell and distinctively simple, unornamented penial morphology. We also describe Phreatodrobia bulla sp. nov. from Hidden Springs (Bell County), and several other springs in Bell & Williamson Counties, Texas. This species has a smooth, unsculptured teleoconch, a reflected and flared lip, and deeply concave operculum.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 4 Dec 2023 09:45:27 +0200
Aquatic microdiversity from urban cenotes in Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/108082/ Subterranean Biology 46: 129-145

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.46.108082

Authors: Job Alí Díaz-Hernández, Paul Ugalde-Silva, Christian Berriozabal-Islas, Alejandro Novelo, Jaqueline Hernández-Uc, Abigail Arana-May, Sheila Denisse Pech-Patrón, Iris Aurora Nava-Jiménez, Jessica Borbolla-Vázquez

Abstract: The microdiversity of cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico has been little studied, with the phytoplankton and protists being the most representative species. However, all previous studies have been focused on cenotes associated with touristic activities, leaving a gap in the understanding of cenotes located within urban areas. The present study is dedicated to the identification of phytoplankton and protists in the cenotes of Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico. We conducted our research in four urban cenotes, collecting samples using a 150 µm plankton net, filtering them with a 45 µm membrane, and examining them under optical microscopy. Subsequently, we calculated the abundance, richness, and completeness of the samples. Our findings revealed a total of 6 phyla, 4 subphyla, 10 classes, 8 subclasses, 15 orders, 15 families, 18 genus, and 17 species and 4 species indeterminata in the cenotes of Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico. Among these, there were 8 species of phytoplankton and 1 species indeterminata, while 9 species of protists and 3 species indeterminata. These results highlight the remarkable species richness and the complex structure and composition of urban cenotes, suggesting that some species may be unique to this particular ecosystem. Currently, there is limited knowledge regarding the behavior of these aquifers (urban cenotes), and a comprehensive inventory or characterization of their microdiversity is lacking. Such information could be instrumental in the management, conservation, and sustainable use of these valuable aquifers.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 9 Nov 2023 10:43:19 +0200
New records of cave-dwelling populations of Rhamdia catfishes (Siluriformes, Heptapteridae) from Chiapas, Mexico https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/110269/ Subterranean Biology 46: 61-76

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.46.110269

Authors: Martín Alonso Buenavad-González, Jesús M. López-Vila, David Torres-Vázquez, Sonia Gabriela Hernández-Ávila, Kaleb Zárate-Gálvez, Jairo Arroyave

Abstract: Dedicated ichthyological surveys in four active karstic caves in the Mexican state of Chiapas (Grijalva River drainage basin) resulted in the discovery of the same number of hypogean populations of Rhamdia catfishes assignable to two different species: R. laticauda and R. guatemalensis. The taxonomic identity of these populations was initially determined based on morphological traits and subsequently corroborated with molecular data in a phylogenetic framework. For the most part, these newly discovered populations exhibit partial and variable troglomorphism (vs. fixed), a pattern that has been observed in most other cave-dwelling species/populations of Mexican Rhamdia, and possibly caused by gene flow with and/or incipient speciation from epigean lineages. Since most hypogean forms of Mexican Rhamdia derive from/are part of a larger R. laticauda clade, our discovery of cave-dwelling populations assignable to R. guatemalensis is noteworthy and includes the very first record of a R. guatemalensis population with pronounced and widespread troglomorphism. Our discovery of hitherto unrecorded populations of hypogean Rhamdia highlights the continued importance of exploration in the process of documenting subterranean biodiversity, particularly in regions of the world rich with cave systems. Our findings corroborate the notion that, among Neotropical fishes, the catfish genus Rhamdia is one of the most prone and effective at colonizing subterranean habitats and establishing viable hypogean populations.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 19 Sep 2023 16:25:46 +0300
A new cave population of Astyanax mexicanus from Northern Sierra de El Abra, Tamaulipas, Mexico https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/98434/ Subterranean Biology 45: 95-117

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.45.98434

Authors: Ramsés Miranda-Gamboa, Luis Espinasa, María de los Angeles Verde-Ramírez, Jorge Hernández-Lozano, Jean Louis Lacaille, Monika Espinasa, Claudia Patricia Ornelas-García

Abstract: The Astyanax genus represents an extraordinary example of phenotypic evolution, being their most extreme examples the blind and depigmented morphs, which have evolved from independent surface-dwelling lineages. Among cave organisms, Astyanax cavefish is a prominent model system to study regressive evolution. Before this study, 34 cave populations were known for the Astyanax genus to be inhabited by the cave morph. The majority of those cave populations are distributed in Northeast México, at the Sierra Madre Oriental (32 cavefish), in three main areas: Sierra de Guatemala, Sierra de El Abra, and Micos, and two in the Balsas basin in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. In the present study, we describe a new cave population found 4.5 km Southward of Pachón cave, the most northern cave population known for the Sierra de El Abra limestone. El Refugio cave is a resurgence with a mixed population of fish with different levels of troglomorphism, and surface fish, resembling other hybrid populations within the Sierra de El Abra. Based on a mitochondrial DNA characterization of the 16S ribosomal DNA sequence, we could identify the mitochondrial lineage of this population, which was placed closely related to the “New Lineage”, sharing haplotypes with the surface (i.e. Arroyo Lagartos) and Pachón populations, instead of with the cave populations from Central Sierra de El Abra (e.g. Tinaja cave). El Refugio cave population gives additional evidence of the intricate history of this system, where migration, drift, and selection have shaped the evolution of the cave morphs through the independent episodes of the Astyanax mexicanus history.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 6 Mar 2023 10:35:37 +0200
Protocol for lens removal in embryonic fish and its application on the developmental effects of eye regression https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/96963/ Subterranean Biology 45: 39-52

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.45.96963

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Marie Pavie, Sylvie Rétaux

Abstract: The lens plays a central role in the development of the optic cup. In fish, regression of the eye early in development affects the development of the craniofacial skeleton, the size of the olfactory pits, the optic nerve, and the tectum. Lens removal further affects olfaction, prey capture, and aggression. The similarity of the fish eye to other vertebrates is the basis for its use as an excellent animal model of human defects. Questions regarding the effects of eye regression are specifically well-suited to be addressed by using fish from the genus Astyanax. The species has two morphs; an eyeless cave morph and an eyed, surface morph. In the cavefish, a lens initially develops in embryos, but then degenerates by apoptosis. The cavefish retina is subsequently disorganized, degenerates, and retinal growth is arrested. The same effect is observed in surface fish when the lens is removed or exchanged for a cavefish lens. While studies can greatly benefit from a control group of surface fish with regressed eyes brought through lensectomies, few studies include them because of technical difficulties and the low survivorship of embryos that undergo this procedure. Here we describe a technique with significant modification for improvement for conducting lensectomy in one-day-old Astyanax and other fish, including zebrafish. Yields of up to 30 live embryos were obtained using this technique from a single spawn, thus enabling studies that require large sample sizes.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Thu, 2 Feb 2023 14:40:41 +0200
Two new cavernicolous species of Anillinus Casey (Carabidae, Trechinae, Anillini) from Texas with a revised key to Texas species https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/91002/ Subterranean Biology 44: 153-166

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.44.91002

Authors: Igor M. Sokolov

Abstract: Two new species of blind cavernicolous ground beetles in the genus Anillinus Casey are described from Texas. Based on the structure of the male genitalia, Anillinus reddelli sp. nov. (type locality: SW Bypass Cave, Williamson County, Texas) is closely related to A. forthoodensis Sokolov and Reddell from the neighboring Bell County. Based on the structure of the male genitalia, Anillinus bexarensis sp. nov. (type locality: Up the Creek Cave, Bexar County, Texas) is closely related to A. weismanensis Sokolov and Kavanaugh from Hays and Bell Counties. Both new species are illustrated with images of the habitus, body parts, and male and female genitalia. Based on morphological data a new grouping of the Texas species is proposed and discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 11 Nov 2022 18:21:29 +0200
Laterality in cavefish: Left or right foraging behavior in Astyanax mexicanus https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/86565/ Subterranean Biology 44: 123-138

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.44.86565

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Ruth Diamant, Marylena Mesquita, Julianna M. Lindquist, Adrianna M. Powers, James Helmreich

Abstract: The evolution of foraging behaviors is key to colonizing challenging habitats such as a cave’s dark environment. Vibration attraction behavior (VAB) gives fish the ability to swim in the darkness toward a vibration stimulus produced by many prey crustaceans and insects. VAB evolved in the blind Mexican cave tetra, Astyanax mexicanus. VAB is regulated by an increased number of mechanosensory neuromasts, particularly in the eye orbital region. However, VAB in Astyanax is only correlated with the number of neuromasts on the left side. Astyanax also have a bent skull preferentially to the left and a QTL signal for the right-side number of neuromasts. We conducted field studies in five different cave populations for four years. Results support that all cave populations can express behavioral lateralization or preponderance of side to examine a vibrating object. The percentage of individuals favoring one side may change among pools and years. In one cave population (Pachón), for one year, this “handedness” was expressed by preferentially using the right side of their face. On the contrary, in most years and pools, Tinaja, Sabinos, Molino, and Toro cave populations explored preferentially using their left side. This suggests that if there is an adaptative effect, it selects for asymmetry on itself, and not necessarily for which side is the one to be specialized. Results also showed that the laterality varied depending on how responsive an individual fish was, perhaps due to its nutritional, motivational state, or mode of stimuli most relevant at the time for the fish.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:54:23 +0300
Life history observations of the Illinois state endangered Enigmatic Cavesnail, Fontigens antroecetes (Hubricht, 1940) made under simulated cave conditions https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/87277/ Subterranean Biology 43: 185-198

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.43.87277

Authors: Robert G. Weck

Abstract: The Enigmatic Cavesnail, Fontigens antroecetes (Hubricht, 1940), is a cave adapted hydrobioid snail listed as state endangered in Illinois. It is known from only one cave in Illinois, Stemler Cave, and from several caves in the eastern Ozark ecoregion of Missouri. Little is known about the snail’s reproductive habits, embryological development, or growth rates. I attempted to gain basic life history information by breeding Enigmatic Cavesnails under simulated cave conditions in the laboratory. Six adult snails were collected from Stemler Cave and held in aerated containers of cave water with one or two cobbles from the cave stream. Containers of snails were housed in incubators set at the average cave water temperature of 13 °C. The snails produced 49 embryos in captivity over the course of 34 weeks. Eggs were deposited singly, attached to the underside of rocks within small pits or crevices. Nearly 82% of embryos developed to hatching. Mean estimated development time of embryos was 70.7 days. Survival of hatchling snails was poor. Limited data available from surviving hatchling snails suggests slow growth rates. The process was replicated with nine Enigmatic Cavesnails collected from Cliff Cave in St. Louis County MO. Captive Cliff Cave snails produced 34 embryos over 46 weeks and varied from the Stemler population in their oviposition behavior, with a majority of eggs deposited on the top surface of rocks. Cliff Cave snail embryos also had longer mean estimated development times (82.17 days).

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 3 Aug 2022 15:37:45 +0300
Rediscovery and phylogenetic analysis of the Shelta Cave Crayfish (Orconectes sheltae Cooper & Cooper, 1997), a decapod (Decapoda, Cambaridae) endemic to Shelta Cave in northern Alabama, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/79993/ Subterranean Biology 43: 11-31

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.43.79993

Authors: Katherine E. Dooley, K. Denise Kendall Niemiller, Nathaniel Sturm, Matthew L. Niemiller

Abstract: The Shelta Cave Crayfish (Orconectes sheltae) is a small, cave-obligate member of the genus Orconectes (family Cambaridae) endemic to a single cave system—Shelta Cave—in northwest Huntsville, Madison Co., Alabama, USA. Although never abundant, this stygobiont was regularly observed in the 1960s and early 1970s before the population and aquatic community in general at Shelta Cave collapsed likely in response to groundwater contamination and the loss of energetic inputs from a Grey Bat (Myotis grisescens) maternity colony that abandoned the cave after installation of a poorly designed cave gate. We conducted 20 visual surveys of aquatic habitats at Shelta Cave between October 2018 and July 2021. Although the aquatic community has not recovered, we did confirm the continued existence of O. sheltae, which had not been observed in 31 years, with observations of an adult female on 31 May 2019 and an adult male on 28 August 2020. We conducted the first phylogenetic analyses of O. sheltae and discovered that the species is most closely related to other geographically proximate stygobiotic crayfishes in the genus Cambarus in northern Alabama than members of the genus Orconectes. We advocate for recognition of this species as Cambarus sheltae to more accurately reflect evolutionary relationships of this single-cave endemic and offer recommendations for its management, conservation, and future research, as this species remains at high risk of extinction.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 20 May 2022 10:58:24 +0300
A new subterranean species of Anillinus Casey (Carabidae, Trechinae, Anillini) from Florida https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/65769/ Subterranean Biology 39: 33-44

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.39.65769

Authors: Igor M. Sokolov, Kyle E. Schnepp

Abstract: A new species of blind subterranean ground beetle in the genus Anillinus Casey is described from Florida. Anillinus albrittonorum sp. nov. (type locality: 6 miles NW High Springs, Columbia County, Florida) has a unique structure of female genitalia and occupies an isolated position within the genus. This new species is illustrated with images of the habitus, body parts, and male and female genitalia. Relationships of A. albrittonorum to other members of the genus are discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 8 Jun 2021 08:26:26 +0300
Corrigenda: Stygobromus bakeri, a new species of groundwater amphipod (Amphipoda, Crangonyctidae) associated with the Trinity and Edwards aquifers of central Texas, USA. Subterranean Biology 38: 19–45. https://doi: 10.3897/subtbiol.38.61787 https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/68597/ Subterranean Biology 38: 113-115

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.38.68597

Authors: Randy Gibson, Benjamin T. Hutchins, Jean K. Krejca, Peter H. Diaz, Peter S. Sprouse

Abstract: N/A

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Corrigenda Fri, 21 May 2021 16:48:32 +0300
Stygobromus bakeri, a new species of groundwater amphipod (Amphipoda, Crangonyctidae) associated with the Trinity and Edwards aquifers of central Texas, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/61787/ Subterranean Biology 38: 19-45

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.38.61787

Authors: Randy Gibson, Benjamin T. Hutchins, Jean K. Krejca, Peter H. Diaz, Peter S. Sprouse

Abstract: A new stygobitic groundwater amphipod species, Stygobromus bakeri sp. nov., is described from 4 central Texas limestone karst springs; John Knox Spring (Comal County), Jacob’s Well (Hays County), Mormon Spring (Travis County) and Salado Springs (Bell County). This species belongs to the predominately western Nearctic hubbsi species group of Stygobromus and differs from other species in the group by gnathopod 1 with row of 4 to 5 setae posterior to the defining angle, pereopods 6 and 7 with broadly expanded bases and distinct distoposterior lobes, gnathopods 1 and 2 with 2 rows of 3 singly inserted setae on the inner palm, and uropod 3 with single, slightly distal peduncular seta. Habitat, sympatric groundwater species, and conservation issues are discussed.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:23:58 +0300
The Pennsylvania grotto sculpin: population genetics https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/60865/ Subterranean Biology 38: 47-63

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.38.60865

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Drake M. Smith, Julianna M. Lindquist

Abstract: The Pennsylvania grotto sculpin is known from just two caves of the Nippenose Valley in central Pennsylvania, USA. They exhibit emergent troglobitic morphological traits and are the second northern-most cave adapted fish in the world. Two mitochondrial (16S rRNA and D-loop gene) and one nuclear (S7 ribosomal protein gene intron) gene in both cave and epigean populations were sequenced. For the three markers, a large proportion of cave specimens possess unique haplotypes not found in their local surface counterparts, suggesting a vicariance in their evolutionary history. The cave population also has haplotypes from two separate lineages of surface sculpins of the Cottus cognatus/bairdii species complex. Since morphology, nuclear, and mitochondrial markers are not correlated among cave individuals, hybridization with introgression is suggested.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:14:30 +0300
Discovery of a new population of the federally endangered Alabama Cave Shrimp, Palaemonias alabamae Smalley, 1961, in northern Alabama https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/38280/ Subterranean Biology 32: 43-59

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.32.38280

Authors: Matthew L. Niemiller, Thomas Inebnit, Amata Hinkle, Bradley D. Jones, Mark Jones, Joseph Lamb, Nathaniel Mann, Benjamin Miller, Jennifer Pinkley, Stephen Pitts, Kayla N. Sapkota, Michael E. Slay

Abstract: The Alabama Cave Shrimp Palaemonias alabamae Smalley, 1961 is a federally endangered cave shrimp endemic to just four cave systems within and near the greater Huntsville metropolitan area in Madison County, Alabama USA. It is one of two described atyid cave shrimp in the Interior Low Plateau karst region. Here we report the discovery of a new population of P. alabamae from the Fern Cave system in western Jackson County, Alabama. We observed four cave shrimp in August 2018 in an isolated pool in the base-level stream passage of the longest cave system in Alabama. Two cave shrimp were observed during a subsequent survey in July 2019: one in the same isolated pool and a second shrimp in a pool in the main stream passage. Morphological and genetic analyses confirm that this population is closely allied with other populations in Madison County. This new population expands the known distribution of the species into a new county and watershed (Lower Paint Rock River). The potential exists to discover additional populations in Paint Rock River valley and other nearby regions.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Wed, 18 Sep 2019 08:11:59 +0300
Sinkhole and brackish water nereidid polychaetes: Revision of Stenoninereis Wesenberg-Lund, 1958 (Annelida) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/36273/ Subterranean Biology 30: 95-115

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.30.36273

Authors: Víctor Manuel Conde-Vela

Abstract: Stenoninereis species are nereidids with a small body (ca. 35 chaetigers), dorsal cirri with conspicuous cirrophores and cirrostyles, bare pharynx, and lack of neuropodial ventral ligules throughout the body. Currently, there are two valid species, S. martini Wesenberg-Lund, 1958 from the Lesser Antilles and S. tecolutlensis de León-González & Solís-Weiss, 1997 from Eastern Mexico. Nicon lackeyi Hartman, 1958 has been regarded as a junior synonym of S. martini. The examination of type and topotype specimens indicated that N. lackeyi is a distinct species and both species are redescribed, S. martini is restricted to the Caribbean islands, and N. lackeyi is reinstated and transferred to Stenoninereis. Further, Puerto Rican specimens differ from these known species and a new species, S. elisae is also described, featured mainly by large cirrophores and short cirrostyles in anterior and middle chaetigers. Further discussions about their morphology and phylogenetic affinities and a key to identify all known Stenoninereis species are also included.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 5 Jul 2019 10:08:32 +0300
New occurrence records for stygobiontic invertebrates from the Edwards and Trinity aquifers in west-central Texas, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/29282/ Subterranean Biology 28: 1-13

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.28.29282

Authors: Bradley D. Nissen, Thomas J. Devitt, Nathan F. Bendik, Andrew G. Gluesenkamp, Randy Gibson

Abstract: We report new occurrence records for stygobiontic invertebrates from the Edwards and Trinity aquifers in Blanco, Hays, and Travis counties of central Texas, USA. Our collection includes seven species from four families: Caecidotea reddelli (Steeves, 1968), Asellidae; Crangonyx nr. pseudogracilis Bousfield, 1958, Stygobromus balconis (Hubricht, 1943), Stygobromus bifurcatus (Holsinger, 1967), and Stygobromus russelli (Holsinger, 1967), Crangonyctidae; Sphalloplana mohri Hyman, 1938, Kenkiidae; and Cirolanides sp., Cirolanidae. Specimens of Caecidotea reddelli and Crangonyx nr. pseudogracilis are new records for Hays County and Travis county, respectively. Specimens of an undescribed species of Cirolanides were collected from a well in Hays County and from two localities in Travis County.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Short Communication Thu, 1 Nov 2018 10:08:34 +0200
A new cave locality for Astyanax cavefish in Sierra de El Abra, Mexico https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/26643/ Subterranean Biology 26: 39-53

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.26.26643

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Laurent Legendre, Julien Fumey, Maryline Blin, Sylvie Rétaux, Monika Espinasa

Abstract: The characiform fish Astyanax mexicanus comes in two forms, a surface-dwelling morph which lives in the rivers of North and Central America and a blind, depigmented cave-dwelling morph which inhabits caves in Mexico. In recent years, this species has arguably become among the most influential model system for the study of evolutionary development and genomics in cave biology. While recent articles have analysed in great detail Astyanax genetics, development, physiology, phylogeny and behaviour, there have been comparatively few recent studies concerning its ecology and in particular its biogeography. Mitchell et al. (1977) reported the species inhabiting 29 caves in the Sierra de El Abra region. Despite the elapsing of over 40 years and the latest surge of interest in the model, not a single new cave locality had been described for the species. We describe here a new and 30th cave locality, Chiquitita Cave, inhabited by troglomorphic A. mexicanus. Their morphology, eye histology, 16S rRNA DNA sequence, and smelling capabilities are analysed. This cave represents the southernmost extension for the cave morph’s habitat within the Sierra de El Abra. Its name, Chiquitita Cave (Tiny Cave), was chosen in reference to a potential hydrologic connection to “Chica Cave” (small cave), which is among the most studied populations of Astyanax.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 4 Jul 2018 09:40:58 +0300
A new species of spider (Araneae, Linyphiidae, Islandiana) from a southern Indiana cave https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/25605/ Subterranean Biology 26: 19-26

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.26.25605

Authors: Marc A. Milne, Elizabeth Wells

Abstract: The genus Islandiana (Araneae, Linyphiidae) was erected by Braendegaard in 1932 and is comprised of 14 species, most of which are native to North America. Herein we add a 15th species, Islandiana lewisi sp. n., from southern Indiana, USA. This species resembles both I. flavoides Ivie, 1965 and I. cavealis Ivie, 1965, the latter of which is geographically-close.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 12 Jun 2018 10:19:45 +0300
Evolution of coprophagy and nutrient absorption in a Cave Salamander https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/15013/ Subterranean Biology 24: 1-9

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.24.15013

Authors: Daphne Soares, Rachel Adams, Shea Hammond, Michael E. Slay, Danté B. Fenolio, Matthew L. Niemiller

Abstract: The transition from carnivory to omnivory is poorly understood. The ability to feed at more than one trophic level theoretically increases an animal’s fitness in a novel environment. Because of the absence of light and photosynthesis, most subterranean ecosystems are characterized by very few trophic levels, such that food scarcity is a challenge in many subterranean habitats. One strategy against starvation is to expand diet breadth. Grotto Salamanders (Eurycea spelaea (Stejneger, 1892)) are known to ingest bat guano deliberately, challenging the general understanding that salamanders are strictly carnivorous. Here we tested the hypothesis that grotto salamanders have broadened their diet related to cave adaptation and found that, although coprophagous behavior is present, salamanders are unable to acquire sufficient nutrition from bat guano alone. Our results suggest that the coprophagic behavior has emerged prior to physiological or gut biome adaptations.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 3 Nov 2017 09:31:47 +0200
Contrasting feeding habits of post-larval and adult Astyanax cavefish https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/11046/ Subterranean Biology 21: 1-17

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.21.11046

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Natalie Bonaroti, Jae Wong, Karen Pottin, Eric Queinnec, Sylvie Rétaux

Abstract: The subterranean environment is often described as “extreme” and food poor. Laboratory experiments have shown that blind Mexican tetra Astyanax mexicanus (De Filippi, 1853) cavefish are better at finding food in the dark than surface fish. Several morphological and behavioural attributes that could foster this obvious adaptive response to cave environments have been described. Nonetheless, it is currently unknown what young cavefish actually eat in their natural cave environment. Our results from the Pachón cave in México during the dry and rainy season show that fry are efficient predators in their natural cave environment. Their primary food item is aquatic crustaceans. The guts of post-larval, pre-juvenile stage individuals (n=9) contained an average of 17.9 water fleas (Cladocera), copepods, ostracods, and isopods. Thus, the fry in this cave are well-fed. The Pachón cave environment does not appear to be “food poor” for juvenile cavefish. Food regimes change between post-larval and adult stages to become more dependent on partially decomposed material, guano, or detritus from the mud. We discuss the data with regards to our current developmental and genetic understanding of cavefish morphological and behavioural evolution, particularly regarding its enhanced Vibration Attraction Behaviour (VAB).

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 6 Jan 2017 15:25:49 +0200
First definitive record of a stygobiotic fish (Percopsiformes, Amblyopsidae, Typhlichthys) from the Appalachians karst region in the eastern United States https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/9693/ Subterranean Biology 20: 39-50

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.20.9693

Authors: Matthew L. Niemiller, Kirk S. Zigler, Pamela B. Hart, Bernard R. Kuhajda, Jonathan W. Armbruster, Breanne N. Ayala, Annette S. Engel

Abstract: In the central and eastern United States, cavefishes have been known historically only from the Interior Low Plateau and Ozarks karst regions. Previously, cavefishes were unknown from the Appalachians karst region, which extends from southeastern New York southwestward into eastern Tennessee, northwestern Georgia, and northeastern Alabama. Here we report the discovery of a new population of the amblyopsid cavefish Typhlichthys subterraneus Girard, 1859 from a cave in Catoosa County, Georgia, that significantly extends the known distribution of the species. The cave is located in the Appalachian Valley and Ridge physiographic province and Appalachians karst region, and represents the first definitive report of a stygobiotic fish from the Appalachians karst region. Genetic analyses of one mitochondrial and one nuclear locus from the cavefish indicate this population is closely allied with populations that occur along the western margins of Lookout and Fox mountains in Dade County, Georgia, and populations to the northwest in southern Marion County, Tennessee. It is likely that these populations are also related to those from Wills Valley, DeKalb County, Alabama. The distribution of this new population of T. subterraneus and its close allies pre-dates the emergence of a Tennessee-Coosa River drainage divide in the Pliocene. The potential exists to discover additional populations in caves within the Appalachians karst region in Catoosa County and northward into Hamilton County, Tennessee.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 8 Nov 2016 09:54:09 +0200
Biogeography and conservation assessment of Bactrurus groundwater amphipods (Crangonyctidae) in the central and eastern United States https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/7298/ Subterranean Biology 17: 1-29

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.17.7298

Authors: Steven J. Taylor, Matthew L. Niemiller

Abstract: The subterranean amphipod genus Bactrurus (Amphipoda: Crangonyctidae) is comprised of eight species that occur in groundwater habitats in karst and glacial deposits of the central and eastern United States. We reexamine the distribution, biogeography, and conservation status of Bactrurus in light of new species distribution records and divergence time estimates in the genus from a recent molecular study. In particular, we discuss hypotheses regarding the distribution and dispersal of B. mucronatus and B. brachycaudus into previously glaciated regions of the Central Lowlands. We also conducted the first IUCN Red List conservation assessments and reassessed global NatureServe conservation ranks for each species. We identified 17 threats associated with increased extinction risk that vary in source, scope, and severity among species, with groundwater pollution being the most significant threat to all species. Our conservation assessments indicate that five of the eight species are at an elevated risk of extinction under IUCN Red List or NatureServe criteria, with one species (B. cellulanus) already extinct. However, none of the eight species are considered threatened or endangered by any state or federal agency. Significant knowledge gaps regarding the life history, ecology, and demography of each species exist. Given results of our conservation assessments and available information on threats to populations, we offer recommendations for conservation, management, and future research for each species.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 2 Feb 2016 10:02:37 +0200
Epigean and hypogean Palaemonetes sp. (Decapoda, Palaemonidae) from Edwards Aquifer: An examination of trophic structure and metabolism https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/4249/ Subterranean Biology 14: 79-102

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.14.8202

Authors: Renee Bishop, William Frank Humphreys, Glenn Longley

Abstract: This study addresses the causes of the metabolic depression observed when examining the metabolism of hypogean versus epigean organisms. We examined the two current hypotheses regarding the cause of metabolic cave adaptation, a paucity of food and low oxygen availability, both necessary for ATP production, by first determining if the hypogean environment examined, Edwards Aquifer, was resource limited. Stable isotope analyses indicate that there is extensive microbial chemolithoautotrophic production providing resources for the hypogean organisms. δ13C values (≤30‰ )were well below that of terrestrial biome indicating that C in the aquifer originates from chemolithoautotrophic inorganic carbon fixation, not photosynthetically derived material resulting from terrigenous sources. Data suggest the artesian system is a complex geochemical ecosystem providing inorganic energy sources from both methane and sulfates. Metabolism, examined via key aerobic and anaerobic proxies, and organismal proximate composition indicated there was no difference between metabolic rates and energy storage of Palaemonetes antrorum (stygobitic) and Palaemonetes kadiakensis (epigean). This indicates that resources within the oxic aquifer are not limited. We demonstrate that it is necessary for one, or both, of these selective pressures to be present for metabolic cave adaptation to occur.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Mon, 17 Nov 2014 00:00:00 +0200
Distribution and conservation status of Speleonycta ozarkensis (Insecta, Zygentoma, Nicoletiidae) from caves of the Ozark Highlands of Arkansas and Oklahoma, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/4105/ Subterranean Biology 14: 51-62

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.14.8275

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Monika Espinasa, Dante B. Fenolio, Michael E. Slay, Matthew Niemiller

Abstract: The “thysanuran” (Zygentoma: Nicoletiidae) Speleonycta ozarkensis is the only troglobiotic nicoletiid from the Ozark Highlands. It was originally described with only four specimens from four different cave systems in Arkansas and Oklahoma. The scarcity of available specimens has made it difficult to determine whether morphological variation among populations represents intraspecific or interspecific variation. We examined molecular (16S rRNA) variation among populations and found no evidence that they represent a species complex. Because of its limited distribution and lack of ecological and life history data, S. ozarkensis may be a species of conservation concern. We therefore conducted a conservation status assessment. We bioinventoried 44 caves in Arkansas and Oklahoma to determine the distribution of S. ozarkensis. A new locality in Adair Co., Oklahoma, was discovered and new specimens were collected to better assess morphological variation among populations. Data on ecology and life history was gathered. We determined the conservation status of the species and identified potential threats to existing populations. Despite being known from a few localities, S. ozarkensis has a broad distribution approaching 10,000 km2. Molecular data suggest S. ozarkensis is capable of considerable dispersal and is primarily an epikarstic species, perhaps explaining why it has been infrequently collected from caves. Conservation assessments revealed that S. ozarkensis is at a slight risk of extinction. We identified seven threats impacting populations that vary in scope and severity, but only recreational caving (three caves) and development associated with urbanization (one cave) have the greatest potential to immediately impact populations.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 24 Sep 2014 00:00:00 +0300
DNA sequences of troglobitic nicoletiid insects support Sierra de El Abra and the Sierra de Guatemala as a single biogeographical area: Implications for Astyanax https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1317/ Subterranean Biology 13: 35-44

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.13.7256

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Nicole D. Bartolo, Catherine E. Newkirk

Abstract: The blind Mexican tetra fish, Astyanax mexicanus, has become the most influential model for research of cave adapted organisms. Many authors assume that the Sierra de Guatemala populations and the Sierra de El Abra populations are derived from two independent colonizations. This assumption arises in part from biogeography. The 100 m high, 100 m wide Servilleta Canyon of the Boquillas River separates both mountain ranges and is an apparent barrier for troglobite dispersion. Anelpistina quinterensis (Nicoletiidae, Zygentoma, Insecta) is one of the most troglomorphic nicoletiid silverfish insects ever described. 16S rRNA sequences support that this species migrated underground to reach both mountain ranges within less than 12,000 years. Furthermore, literature shows a plethora of aquatic and terrestrial cave restricted species that inhabit both mountain ranges. Thus, the Servilleta canyon has not been an effective biological barrier that prevented underground migration of troglobites between the Sierra de Guatemala and the Sierra de El Abra. The Boquillas River has changed its course throughout time. Caves that in the past connected the two Sierras were only recently geologically truncated by the erosion of the new river course. It is likely that, with the geological changes of the area and throughout the 2-8 million years of evolutionary history of cave Astyanax, there have been opportunities to migrate across the Servilleta canyon.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Tue, 18 Mar 2014 00:00:00 +0200
Prevalence of parasitism in the Grotto Sculpin (Cottus specus), a new species of cave-adapted fish from southeastern Missouri, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1312/ Subterranean Biology 12: 3-14

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.12.6503

Authors: Julie Day, David E. Starkey, Joseph E. Gerken

Abstract: Acanthocephalan parasites infecting the newly described Grotto Sculpin (Cottus specus), a state-threatened and federally endangered troglomorphic fish endemic to Perry County, Missouri, were identified in fish from six cave and four non-cave karst streams. Infection rate and infestation severity were higher among fish from cave streams as compared to non-cave streams. Fish from several caves presented with cases of severe infection and near complete parasite occupation of the intestinal tract. Increased cannibalism and variable water quality are proposed as possible explanations for increased Grotto Sculpin parasitism. This observation suggests that the health of cave fauna may be tied to diet and host population dynamics, and that species subject to severe dietary restrictions and the effects of anthropogenic disturbances may have high vulnerability and conservation risks.

HTML

XML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Wed, 8 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0200
Diversity and dynamics of microarthropods from different biotopes of Las Sardinas cave (Mexico) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1291/ Subterranean Biology 9: 113-126

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.9.2514

Authors: José Palacios-Vargas, Gabriela Castaño-Meneses, Daniel A. Estrada

Abstract: An ecological study of the microarthropod communities from Las Sardinas cave was undertaken. Four different biotopes were studied over the course of a year: bat guano, litter, soil under the chemoautotrophic bacteria colonies and as a control, plain soil without litter or guano. A total of 27,913 specimens of a total of 169 species were collected. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed that there is a significant effect of biotope on the recorded density, and the post hoc Tukey’s test showed that guano is the most different biotope with the highest value of density recorded. The interaction between season and biotope variables was not significant. In the most extreme case, 99 percent of the microarthropods in soil under chemoautotrophic bacteria were mites, mainly in the family Histiostomidae.

HTML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0200
New species of scuttle flies (Diptera: Phoridae) recorded from caves in Nevada, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1294/ Subterranean Biology 9: 73-84

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.9.2511

Authors: R. Henry Disney, Steven Taylor, Michael E. Slay, Jean K. Krejca

Abstract: Five new species of scuttle fly are reported from caves in Nevada, USA, namely Aenigmatias bakerae Disney, Megaselia excuniculus Disney, M. krejcae Disney, M. folliculorum Disney, M. necpleuralis Disney and a female Megaselia that can not be named until linked to its male.

HTML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 30 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0200
Scuttle flies (Diptera: Phoridae) from caves in Alabama and Georgia, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1284/ Subterranean Biology 8: 65-67

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.8.1233

Authors: R. Henry Disney, Joshua Campbell

Abstract: Four species of scuttle fl y are reported from caves in Alabama and Georgia.

HTML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0200
The Mexican cavernicolous Pseudosinella (Collembola: Entomobryidae) with description of a new species https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1282/ Subterranean Biology 8: 49-56

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.8.1231

Authors: José Palacios-Vargas, Blanca Mejía Recamier

Abstract: A compilation of the information on the genus Pseudosinella from Mexican caves was undertaken and one new species from Puebla State is described and illustrated: P. rochezi, sp. nov. It is similar to P. bonita Christiansen, 1973 and displays typical troglomorphic characters. An identifi cation key for all Mexican cave species of the genus is presented.

HTML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0200
A new species of the subterranean amphipod crustacean genus Stygobromus (Crangonyctidae) from a cave in Nevada, USA https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1281/ Subterranean Biology 8: 39-48

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.8.1230

Authors: Steven Taylor, John Holsinger

Abstract: Stygobromus albapinus, a new stygobiotic amphipod crustacean species in the family Crangonyctidae, is described from two pools in Model Cave in Great Basin National Park, White Pine County, Nevada, USA. The type specimens were collected on two different visits to the cave. The new species is assigned to the hubbsi group, bringing the number of described species in this group to 45, but many other provisionally recognized species assigned to this group remain undescribed. With exception of a single species from deep wells in southeastern Wisconsin, all other members of the hubbsi group are recorded from a wide variety of subterranean groundwater habitats (e.g., caves, springs, wells, etc.) in western North America, west of the Great Plains. Although the taxonomic affi nities of Stygobromus albapinus, n. sp. need further study, the species does appear to share several important morphological characters with a species from a cave in western Utah located approximately 300 km east-northeast of Model Cave.

HTML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0200
Observations on the biology of the endangered stygobiotic shrimp Palaemonias alabamae, with notes on P. ganteri (Decapoda: Atyidae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1278/ Subterranean Biology 8: 9-20

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.8.1226

Authors: Martha Cooper, John Cooper

Abstract: Palaemonias alabamae is endemic to subterranean waters in northern Alabama. Its type locality is Shelta Cave, Madison County, and ostensibly conspecifi c shrimps have been found in Bobcat and two other caves. Pollution and other factors may have extirpated the shrimp from the type locality. In Shelta Cave the species is smaller than the shrimp in Bobcat Cave and P. ganteri in Mammoth Cave, Kentucky. Adult female P. alabamae (s.s.) and P. ganteri are larger than males. Female P. alabamae with visible oocytes or, rarely, attached ova, were observed from July through January in Shelta Cave. Each female there produces 8 to 12 large ova, whereas females of the population in Bobcat Cave produce 20 to 24 ova, and P. ganteri produces 14 to 33 ova. Plankton samples taken in Shelta and Mammoth caves yielded nothing identifi able as zoea or postlarvae. Palaemonias alabamae and P. ganteri usually feed by fi ltering bottom sediments through their mouthparts, but both sometimes feed upside down at the water’s surface. Although there is some overlap, the compositions of the aquatic communities in Shelta and Mammoth caves differ, and there are some major differences among the Alabama shrimp caves. The stygobiotic fi sh, Typhlichthys subterraneus, is a known predator on P. alabamae in Shelta Cave.

HTML

PDF

]]>
Research Article Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0200