Latest Articles from Subterranean Biology Latest 40 Articles from Subterranean Biology https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/ Tue, 19 Mar 2024 08:07:02 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from Subterranean Biology https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/ Cave-dwelling fauna of Costa Rica: current state of knowledge and future research perspectives https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/113219/ Subterranean Biology 47: 29-62

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.47.113219

Authors: Stanimira Deleva, Andres Ulloa, Hernani F. M. Oliveira, Nikolay Simov, Ferdinando Didonna, Gloriana Chaverri

Abstract: This study focused on the cave fauna of Costa Rica, which has remained relatively understudied despite the presence of more than 435 recorded natural caves and artificial subterranean sites. We collected and reviewed all available literature data on cave fauna in Costa Rica and created the first comprehensive review of the existing information. In addition, we report new records from field surveys conducted between 2015 and 2018. This study reported approximately 123 animal species, whereas the remaining records (n = 82) represented taxa that could not be identified at the species level. Data were collected from 127 locations throughout the country, with new cave fauna records from 41 sites. Notably, we reported the first occurrence of the true bug Amnestus subferrugineus (Westwood 1837) within Costa Rican caves, which represents an addition to the country’s faunal inventory. As this study highlights the knowledge gaps in the subterranean fauna, it will serve as an important stepping stone for future research and conservation efforts related to caves in Costa Rica.

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Research Article Fri, 8 Dec 2023 14:41:19 +0200
The biospeleological work of Carl L. Hubbs (1894–1979): an appraisal https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/114190/ Subterranean Biology 46: 165-198

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.46.114190

Authors: Aldemaro Romero Jr., Max Moseley

Abstract: Carl Leavitt Hubbs (1894–1979) was a prominent and internationally renowned American ichthyologist whose publications include taxonomic descriptions of several North American blindfishes including the Mexican Cave Characin. His archived personal papers reveal a wide-ranging interest in the biology and evolutionary origins of cave and blindfishes, and his discussions and disputes with colleagues about their taxonomy. He also took opportunities to collect other fauna from American caves during the inter-war decades. Drawing upon his unpublished archive and other relevant sources his biospeleological work is chronicled in detail and discussed in the context of his other work.

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In Memoriam Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:12:17 +0200
The first record of a stygobiotic form of Garra rufa (Heckel, 1843), sympatric with Garra tashanensis Mousavi-Sabet, Vatandoust, Fatemi & Eagderi, 2016 (Teleostei, Cyprinidae), in Iranian subterranean waters https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/108396/ Subterranean Biology 46: 97-127

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.46.108396

Authors: Mohammad Javad Malek-Hosseini, Jean-François Flot, Yaser Fatemi, Hamid Babolimoakher, Matjaž Kuntner, Oleg A. Diripasko, Dušan Jelić, Nina G. Bogutskaya

Abstract: We report the first finding of the stygobiotic form of the cyprinid fish Garra rufa (Heckel, 1843), discovered in a single locality in southwestern Iran, while the epigean form of the species is widely distributed in western Asia (Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, and Syria). We also report a new locality for its hypogean congener, Garra tashanensis, about 5 km east of its type locality. The two species occur in syntopy in outflows of the Tang-e-Ban, a seasonal karstic spring that only has flowing water during winter and spring, when fish individuals are washed from the cave to the surface. Identification of the investigated samples was confirmed by morphological analyses, COI distances, and a phylogenetic tree. These findings suggest the existence of a large karst aquifer in the Tashan area that harbours several cave species of fish, crustaceans, and gastropods and may have considerable conservation implications.

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Research Article Tue, 17 Oct 2023 15:24:56 +0300
Biogeographical affinities of the aquatic community of Refugio Cave, a newly discovered Astyanax cave https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/102043/ Subterranean Biology 46: 77-86

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.46.102043

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Aidan Pech

Abstract: Pachón cave in the Sierra de El Abra, in Northeast Mexico, stands out as hosting the world’s most widely studied cavefish population – with over 500 scholarly articles published about the population. Refugio Cave was recently discovered in the El Abra region. This cave hosts the mysid cave shrimp Spelaeomysis quinterensis and the blind cave tetra fish, Astyanax mexicanus. This study aims to understand how the aquatic community of Refugio Cave es related to other cave populations in the area. For this purpose, the Histone H3 gene of mysid shrimps and the OCA2 gene that confers albinism in Astyanax fish was sequenced. Results support that the Refugio and Pachón aquatic communities, which are only 4.5 km away apart, are closely related. Thus, the Refugio Cave population may contribute to better understand the evolutionary history of such an important population and, perhaps, help with Pachon’s cavefish conservation.

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Research Article Thu, 21 Sep 2023 11:39:05 +0300
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.

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Research Article Tue, 19 Sep 2023 16:25:46 +0300
Eye convergence is evoked during larval prey capture (LPC) without visual stimulus and in blind cavefish https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/105707/ Subterranean Biology 46: 47-60

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.46.105707

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Kayla-Ann Lewis

Abstract: In zebrafish larvae, the first response when detecting prey is an oculomotor behavior; eye convergence. Eye convergence increases the overlap between the visual fields of the left and right eyes to prepare for tracking prey. A high vergence angle is maintained throughout the prey-tracking and capture swim phases, enhancing binocular depth. Since the discovery of eye convergence, hundreds of articles reporting on this behavior in zebrafish have been published. In this study, we found that the larvae of blind tetra cavefish, Astyanax mexicanus, despite being adapted to the absence of visual stimuli due to the lack of light in the cave, have retained the oculomotor behavior of eye convergence in their vestigial eyes. In Astyanax, eye convergence responses can be triggered singlehandedly by vibrations elicited with a glass rod at frequencies similar to those generated by its prey (10–35 Hz). The blind cave tetra offers an intriguing combination of regression of the eye structure, while retaining several of the physiological functions and actions performed in the eye, including light-entrained retinomotor rhythms and eye convergence.

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Research Article Tue, 5 Sep 2023 17:23:17 +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.

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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.

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Research Article Thu, 2 Feb 2023 14:40:41 +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.

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Research Article Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:54:23 +0300
Behavioral observations of the olm (Proteus anguinus) in a karst spring via direct observations and camera trapping https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/87295/ Subterranean Biology 44: 69-83

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.44.87295

Authors: Ester Premate, Žiga Fišer, Žan Kuralt, Anja Pekolj, Tjaša Trajbarič, Eva Milavc, Živa Hanc, Rok Kostanjšek

Abstract: The olm (Proteus anguinus), an endemic amphibian of the Dinarides’ underground waters (Europe), is one of the world’s most widely known subterranean species. Although various aspects of olm biology have been extensively studied, the data on their behavior in the wild remain scarce mostly due to inaccessibility of their natural habitat. Yet, olms also occur in several karstic springs during nighttime. These are easier to access and present an exciting opportunity to study olm behavior in nature. Here, we report on systematic observations of olms in one such spring in Slovenia, where we observed them for nine consecutive summer nights, coupling direct on-site observations with IR camera trap recordings. We used IR camera trap recordings to construct simple ethograms, as well as to quantify olm movement activity by video-tracking. Olms regularly occurred on the surface during the night, and dawn appeared to be a key stimulus for their retreat underground. They were constantly active, but rarely swam far from the spring. Despite the short-term nature of the study, we collected new occurrence and movement data, and at the same time tested the usability of IR cameras for surveying olm presence and behavior in nature. Experience gained through the study may prompt long-term and more complex behavioral studies using similar approaches.

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Research Article Thu, 1 Sep 2022 14:11:34 +0300
Divergent evolutionary pathways for aggression and territoriality in Astyanax cavefish https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/79318/ Subterranean Biology 43: 169-183

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.73.79318

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Emily Collins, C. Patricia Ornelas García, Sylvie Rétaux, Nicolas Rohner, Jennifer Rutkowski

Abstract: The surface morph of the Mexican tetra fish (Astyanax mexicanus) exhibits strong territoriality behavior and high levels of aggression. In contrast, the eyeless cave-adapted morph from Sierra de El Abra, México, rarely are aggressive and have totally lost the territorial behavior. These behaviors are part of what has been called the cavefish behavioral syndrome. Here, we report that several Astyanax cave populations of Sierra de Guatemala, unlike those reported for the Sierra de El Abra cave populations, display significant territoriality and aggression when confined into a reduced space. We discuss divergent evolutionary trajectories in terms of agonistic behavior for cavefish populations inhabiting different mountain ranges.

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Research Article Fri, 15 Jul 2022 03:53:31 +0300
Bat fauna and conservation assessment of Kurdistan caves, Iran https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/73282/ Subterranean Biology 42: 79-95

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.42.73282

Authors: Vahid Akmali, Siavash Abedini, Zahra Malekpour Fard

Abstract: The populations of cave-dwelling bat species are encountering a remarkable decline all over the world. To plan effective conservation projects for bats and their cave roosts, collecting data on their distribution in a particular region is essential. Furthermore, developing an applicable index that incorporates both biotic and abiotic parameters relevant to caves is useful to prioritize caves for conservation management. Recently, there has been a growing interest in studying bat fauna of Iran. The Kurdistan province in west of the country is entirely mountainous, having a suitable geological substratum for formation of caves. Previously, five bat species were reported from Kurdistan. The current study has improved the data by doubling the number of cave-dwelling bat species of the province. A total number of 61 records of 10 species were documented. Overall, of 28 caves studied, 26 caves were used by bats. Each cave hosted one to six bat species. To prioritize Kurdistan caves for conservation programs, the Bat Cave Vulnerability Index (BCVI) was employed for 26 caves explored in this study. Four caves, including Karaftu, Kamtaran, Darvish Ouliya, and Kouna Sham-Sham, were highlighted due to their highest BCVI value. The other 22 caves received medium or low priority values. In the current study, we provided data on the bat fauna of Kurdistan caves, in addition to evaluate their conservation priorities by applying an assessing index for the first time in the country.

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Research Article Fri, 18 Feb 2022 09:36:08 +0200
Host-parasite associations in a population of the nectarivorous bat Anoura geoffroyi (Phyllostomidae) in a cave in a Brazilian ferruginous geosystem https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/64552/ Subterranean Biology 39: 63-77

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.39.64552

Authors: Luísa Lauren Lima Vidal, Leopoldo Ferreira Oliveira Bernardi, Sonia Aparecida Talamoni

Abstract: Parasitic relationships between Neotropical bats and their ectoparasites are not well known, even though parasitism is one of the factors that can affect the fitness of a host population. This study characterized parasite-host relationships in relation to sex, age, body size and reproductive status in a population of Anoura geoffroyi using the indices of Prevalence, Mean Intensity and Mean Abundance. Total prevalence for 93 sampled bats was 94.6%. Two species of streblid flies that are considered primary parasites of A. geoffroyi, Exastinion clovisi (n = 203) and Anastrebla modestini (n = 152), were the most abundant ectoparasites, followed by Trichobius sp. (n = 7). Two mite species, Periglischrus vargasi (Spinturnicidae) (n = 98) and Spelaeorhynchus praecursor (Spelaeorhynchidae) (n = 11), were also found. We recorded higher mean abundance and intensity of parasitism in pregnant females compared to reproductive males and reproductively inactive females, for different specific associations of ectoparasites. Host age and body condition had no effect on the parasitological indices. Even with high rates of parasitism, parasitic load did not influence host body condition, but infestation rates by mites were higher in reproductive males and higher by flies in reproductive females, showing that ectoparasites can have variable influences between the different stages of the life history of these host bats. Thus, the reproductive activity of the hosts could be an adverse factor for resistance to parasite infestations.

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Research Article Wed, 9 Jun 2021 08:12:59 +0300
Reproduction, development, asymmetry and late eye regression in the Brazilian cave catfish Ituglanis passensis (Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae): evidence contributing to the neutral mutation theory https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/60691/ Subterranean Biology 38: 91-112

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.31.60691

Authors: Sandro Secutti, Eleonora Trajano

Abstract: The troglobitic (exclusively subterranean source population) catfish Ituglanis passensis (Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae) is endemic to the Passa Três Cave, São Domingos karst area, Rio Tocantins basin, Central Brazil. This unique population presents variably reduced eyes and melanic pigmentation. We describe reproduction and early development in this species based on a spontaneous (non-induced) reproductive-event that occurred in the laboratory in January–February, 2009, while simultaneously comparing with data from the cave-habitat and a previous reproductive event. Egg laying was parceled. Egg-size and number were within variations observed in epigean congeners. Larvae behavior and growth is described. A single surviving specimen was monitored over two years. Eye-regression started late, one year after birth, and followed a pattern of stasis phases intercalated with slow growth and fluctuating asymmetric rates. Late eye regression, associated with asymmetry in eye development and intra-population variability of troglomorphic traits, as shown by several Brazilian subterranean fishes, provide support for the Neutral Mutation Theory.

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Research Article Mon, 19 Apr 2021 08:19:33 +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.

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Research Article Mon, 12 Apr 2021 08:14:30 +0300
Hydraulic flow resistance of epigean and hypogean fish of the family Trichomycteridae (Ostariophysi, Siluriformes) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/55064/ Subterranean Biology 35: 97-110

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.35.55064

Authors: Francisco Alexandre Costa Sampaio, Marina Silva Rufino, Paulo Santos Pompeu, Hersília de Andrade е Santos, Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira

Abstract: Critical swimming speeds of four trichomycterid fish species from epigean and hypogean environments were analyzed and compared: Trichomycterus itacarambiensis and Ituglanis passensis, both troglobitic from underground rivers; Trichomycterus brasiliensis, from epigean rivers; and Ituglanis sp., an undescribed troglophilic species from an underground stream. Swimming tests were conducted with a non-volitional apparatus in which fish swim against a progressive incremental water velocity until they longer resist the flow. Total length was significantly related to critical speed for only T. itacarambiensis. The critical speed obtained by each species, in decreasing order, with values in lengths per second (lengths/s), were: I. passensis (3.61), T. itacarambiensis (3.49), T. brasiliensis (3.11) and Ituglanis sp. (1.89). Swimming performance differed between the congeners T. itacarambiensis and T. brasiliensis, but did not differed between I. passensis and Ituglanis sp. The greater speed for the troglobitic species compared to that of the troglophilic and epigean species is probably related to seasonal flooding pulses that can be extremely severe in caves. Furthermore, during the tests, fish were observed using their mouth and/or barbels to fasten themselves to the substrate to avoid high flows.

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Research Article Fri, 23 Oct 2020 08:22:32 +0300
Siberian weasel Mustela sibirica Pallas, 1773 predatism on bats during winter period https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/46617/ Subterranean Biology 32: 111-117

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.32.46617

Authors: Alexander Zhigalin

Abstract: This work presents the results of a three-year natural environment experiment in a cave in Barsukovskaya, Siberia), aimed at assessing the possible impact of mammals preying on a wintering group of bats. The average consumed biomass amount per year was about 2108 g and the estimated number of prey animals was 214, which is about 20% of the maximum number of animals observed. The biomass consumed poorly correlates with the number of animals in the cave. The proportion of the various species remaining in the excrement of predators is strongly determined by the number of these species in the accessible part of the cave. The amount of excrement indicates the regular predatism on bats and, therefore, the presence of specific behavioural adaptation in Mustela sibirica.

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Research Article Fri, 6 Dec 2019 08:49:39 +0200
Two caves in western Honduras are important for bat conservation: first checklist of bats in Santa Bárbara https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/35420/ Subterranean Biology 30: 41-55

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.30.35420

Authors: Manfredo Alejandro Turcios-Casco, Diego Iván Ordoñez Mazier, José Alejandro Soler Orellana, Hefer Daniel Ávila-Palma, Eduardo Javier Ordoñez Trejo

Abstract: Caves are important reservoirs for species, including bats, but in Honduras there is little known information about these biodiverse ecosystems. We describe the importance of two caves in Ceguaca in western Honduras, based on the species richness of each cave. From December 2015 to May 2016, we used three mist-nets in seven journeys (74.27 mist-net/hours). We captured 139 bats belonging to 23 species of four families. We recorded 10 species in the crop of Quita Sueño, 10 in the cave of El Peñón, and 12 in the cave of Monte Grueso. In overall, 17% of the bats were captured in the crops of Quita Sueño, 62% in the cave of Monte Grueso, and 21% in the cave of El Peñón. About 9% of bat species of the total account for Honduras could be found in the cave of El Peñón, and 10% in the cave of Monte Grueso. If we consider the number of the species that have been recorded since 1979, between 20.9 and 49.2% of the expected species are still unrecorded, this suggests that despite low sampling effort there is a high diversity. However, the diversity of bats species using these caves embraced on the Tropical Dry Forest of Ceguaca is threatened by the fragmentation of the ecosystem due to the following reasons: intentional fires in the caves, extensive cattle raising, replacement of native plants with extensions of crops, and human-vampire conflicts (Desmodus rotundus).

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Research Article Thu, 27 Jun 2019 15:31:39 +0300
First record of albinism for the doglike bat, Peropteryx kappleri Peters, 1867 (Chiroptera, Emballonuridae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/34223/ Subterranean Biology 30: 33-40

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.30.34223

Authors: Leopoldo Ferreira de Oliveira Bernardi, Xavier Prous, Mariane S. Ribeiro, Juliana Mascarenhas, Sebastião Maximiano Correa Genelhú, Matheus Henrique Simões, Tatiana Bezerra

Abstract: Albinism is a type of deficient in melanin production could be the result of genetic anomalies that are manifest as the absence of coloration of part or the entire body of an organism. This type of chromatic disorder can affect several vertebrate species, but is rarely found in nature. Among bats, more than 450 cases of total or partial loss of body pigmentation have been reported. Herein we provide the first report of albinism for the bat species Peropteryx kappleri (Chiroptera: Emballonuridae) with two such specimens being observed from iron formation caves in a conservation unit “Floresta Nacional de Carajás”, Amazon forest, northern of Brazil.

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Short Communication Wed, 29 May 2019 09:15:39 +0300
An important site for conservation of bats in Brazil: Passa Três cave, São Domingos karst area, with an updated checklist for Distrito Federal (DF) and Goiás state https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/31801/ Subterranean Biology 28: 39-51

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.28.31801

Authors: Maria Elina Bichuette, Eliana do Amaral Gimenez, Ives Simões Arnone, Eleonora Trajano

Abstract: A checklist of bats from Distrito Federal (DF) and Goiás state (GO) and, particularly a single cave (Passa Três cave), located in São Domingos karst area (GO), central Brazil, is presented. Data is based on literature and surveys carried out during 2,000 years. In total, 66 species were recorded, with 30 using caves as shelters. Passa Três cave harbors nine Phyllostomidae species; the most abundant species were Platyrrhinus lineatus, Lonchorhina aurita, Desmodus rotundus and Carollia perspicillata; and the less abundants Trachops cirrhosus, Anoura caudifer and Glossophaga soricina. Besides, the cave is shelter of two threatened bats - Lonchophylla dekeyseri (Endangered category) and Lonchorhina aurita (Vulnerable category), included at Brazilian List of Threatened Fauna, and of a rare species, Lionycteris spurrelli. Passa Três cave shows enough attributes to be considered as a SICOM (Sites of Importance for Conservation of Bats), which would ensure its protection.

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Research Article Wed, 12 Dec 2018 09:03:40 +0200
A new maximum body size record for the Berry Cave Salamander (Gyrinophilus gulolineatus) and genus Gyrinophilus (Caudata, Plethodontidae) with a comment on body size in plethodontid salamanders https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/30506/ Subterranean Biology 28: 29-38

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.28.30506

Authors: Nicholas S. Gladstone, Evin T. Carter, K. Denise Kendall Niemiller, Lindsey E. Hayter, Matthew L. Niemiller

Abstract: Lungless salamanders in the family Plethodontidae exhibit an impressive array of life history strategies and occur in a diversity of habitats, including caves. However, relationships between life history, habitat, and body size remain largely unresolved. During an ongoing study on the demography and life history of the paedomorphic, cave-obligate Berry Cave Salamander (Gyrinophilus gulolineatus, Brandon 1965), we discovered an exceptionally large individual from the type locality, Berry Cave, Roane County, Tennessee, USA. This salamander measured 145 mm in body length and represents not only the largest G. gulolineatus and Gyrinophilus ever reported, but also the largest plethodontid salamander in the United States. We discuss large body size in G. gulolineatus and compare body size in other large plethodontid salamanders in relation to life history and habitat.

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Short Communication Fri, 16 Nov 2018 09:58:15 +0200
24th International Conference on Subterranean Biology https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/30244/ Subterranean Biology 27: 75-77

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.27.30244

Authors: Ana Sofia P. S. Reboleira, Fernando J.M. Gonçalves

Abstract: The 24thedition of the biennial Conference on Subterranean Biology was held on the campus of the University of Aveiro in Portugal from 20th to 24thAugust, following the previous edition held in USA (Culver, 2016). These conferences are organized under the auspices of the International Society for Subterranean Biology, founded in 1979. It was the first meeting held in Portugal and in the Iberian Peninsula.

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Forum Paper Wed, 31 Oct 2018 09:12:02 +0200
Troglomorphic features of Astroblepus pholeter, a cavefish from Ecuador, and possible introgressive hybridization https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/27098/ Subterranean Biology 27: 17-29

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.27.27098

Authors: Luis Espinasa, Jenna Robinson, Daphne Soares, Geoffrey Hoese, Theofilos Toulkeridis, Rickard Toomey III

Abstract: Cave organisms are often characterized by reduced pigmentation, eyesight, and enhanced mechanosensory functions. The stygobitic catfish Astroblepus pholeter is found within some subterranean drainages in Ecuador. The species was first described in 1962 with specimens that were all highly depigmented and troglomorphic. The next observations in the field occurred until 2011, 2015 and 2018. At such dates, specimens examined progressively displayed more surface-like appearance. Appendages in these individuals were progressively shorter and pigmentation levels are now as high as some surface Astroblepus. Based on sampled specimens, it would appear that since 1962, the population has been progressively composed of less troglomorphic individuals. One possibility is that the population has undergone introgressive hybridization in recent years as surface Astroblepus are known to enter the caves and cohabitate with the troglomorphic Astroblepus. Lastly, we report that Individuals are able to detect and respond to light. Histological analyses show that A. pholeter’s eyes have all of the major ocular structures (lens, optic nerve, and all retinal layers).

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Research Article Wed, 15 Aug 2018 10:37:19 +0300
Phylogeographical convergence between Astyanax cavefish and mysid shrimps in the Sierra de El Abra, Mexico https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/27097/ Subterranean Biology 26: 75-84

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.26.27097

Authors: Joseph Kopp, Shristhi Avasthi, Luis Espinasa

Abstract: The Sierra de El Abra is a long (120 km) and narrow (10 km) karstic area in northeastern Mexico. Some studies have suggested independent evolutionary histories for the multiple populations of blind cavefish Astyanax mexicanus that inhabit this mountain range, despite the hydrological connections that may exist across the Sierra. Barriers between caves could have prevented stygobitic populations to migrate across caves, creating evolutionary significant units localized in discrete biogeographical areas of the Sierra de El Abra. The goal of the present study was to evaluate if there is a correspondence in phylogeographical patterns between Astyanax cavefish and the stygobitic mysid shrimp Spelaeomysis quinterensis. Astyanax mtDNA and mysid histone H3 DNA sequences showed that in both species, cave populations in central El Abra, such as Tinaja cave, are broadly different from other cave populations. This phylogeographical convergence supports the notion that the central Sierra de El Abra is a biogeographical zone with effective barriers for either cave to cave or surface to cave gene flow, which have modulated the evolutionary history across species of its aquatic stygobitic community.

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Research Article Tue, 14 Aug 2018 16:46:25 +0300
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.

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Research Article Wed, 4 Jul 2018 09:40:58 +0300
Is the Italian stream frog (Rana italica Dubois, 1987) an opportunistic exploiter of cave twilight zone? https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/23803/ Subterranean Biology 25: 49-60

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.25.23803

Authors: Enrico Lunghi, Giacomo Bruni, Francesco Gentile Ficetola, Raoul Manenti

Abstract: Studies on frogs exploiting subterranean environments are extremely scarce, as these Amphibians are usually considered accidental in these environments. However, according to recent studies, some anurans actively select subterranean environments on the basis of specific environmental features, and thus are able to inhabit these environments throughout the year. We present the first study on the abundance and spatial use of the Italian stream frog, Rana italica, in subterranean environments. We monthly collected data from 66 cave sectors during a whole year (2013), recording > 120 detections of R. italica. Frogs were more frequently found close to the cave entrance, without significant differences between age classes or sexes. Adults generally were observed being higher up along cave walls compared to juveniles. Frogs abundance was higher in areas showing specific environmental features, such as warm temperature, low incident light and the presence of potential prey. Rana italica likely occupies subterranean areas characterized by a combination of microclimatic suitability and prey availability.

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Short Communication Tue, 20 Mar 2018 10:40:01 +0200
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.

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Research Article Fri, 3 Nov 2017 09:31:47 +0200
Towards a biologically meaningful classification of subterranean organisms: a critical analysis of the Schiner-Racovitza system from a historical perspective, difficulties of its application and implications for conservation https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/9759/ Subterranean Biology 22: 1-26

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.22.9759

Authors: Eleonora Trajano, Marcelo R. de Carvalho

Abstract: Subterranean organisms always attracted the attention of humans using caves with various purposes, due to the strange appearance of several among them and life in an environment considered extreme. According to a classification based on the evolutionary and ecological relationships of these organisms with subterranean habitats, first proposed by Schiner in 1854 and emended by Racovitza in 1907, three categories have been recognized: troglobites, troglophles and trogloxenes. The Schiner-Racovitza system has been discussed, criticized, emended, the categories have been redefined, subdivided, original meanings have changed, but it is used until now. Herein we analyze in a conceptual framework the main ecological classifications of subterranean organisms, from Schiner to Trajano, in 2012, so far the last author to introduce a relevant conceptual change on the categories definitions, incorporating the source-sink population model. Conceptual inconsistencies are pointed, especially with regards to the generally ill-defined trogloxene category, and the correspondence between categories according to the original sense and in alternative classifications is discussed. Practical criteria for distinction between these categories and difficulties for their application are presented. The importance of rightly classifying subterranean populations according to the Schiner-Racovitza system for conservation of these fragile and mostly threatened habitats is discussed.

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Review Article Tue, 28 Feb 2017 10:34:14 +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).

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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.

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Research Article Tue, 8 Nov 2016 09:54:09 +0200
Predation of Desmodus rotundus Geoffroy, 1810 (Phyllostomidae, Chiroptera) by Epicrates cenchria (Linnaeus, 1758) (Boidae, Reptilia) in an Ecuadorian Cave https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/8731/ Subterranean Biology 19: 41-50

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.19.8731

Authors: Sarah Martin-Solano, Theofilos Toulkeridis, Aaron Addison, Wilmer E. Pozo-Rivera

Abstract: Bats are mammals of the Order Chiroptera. They are highly adaptable to several habitats and their ecology makes them vulnerable to predators. Bats are a common prey of snakes, but description of this kind of predation are rare. This study describes the event of predation of an Epicrates cenchria on a Desmodus rotundus, in a cave in Tena, Ecuador. Records of Desmodus rotundus are known from caves just as Epicrates cenchria. Castillo Cave has a total mapped length of 450 meters. The phase of constriction lasted for 10 min 2 s, a duration superior than other studies, due to the size of Desmodus rotundus. The terrestrial locomotion behavior of D. rotundus, makes it an easy target for E. cenchria. The predation event occurred on the floor, a rare case, which has not been described in other events of predation in caves. The cave is located in a disturbed habitat, because it is irrigated by wastewaters. But both species seems to be adapted to the environment. This study confirms that predation of bats in caves by snakes does occur.

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Research Article Tue, 20 Sep 2016 14:47:46 +0300
The first two hotspots of subterranean biodiversity in South America https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/8207/ Subterranean Biology 19: 1-21

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.19.8207

Authors: Marconi Souza Silva, Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira

Abstract: The term hotspots of subterranean biodiversity has been used to define subterranean habitats with an arbitrary cutoff of twenty or more obligate stygobitic and troglobitic species. Until present, no hotspots of subterranean biodiversity had been identified in South America. Thus, the objective of this work is to present the first two hotspots of subterranean biodiversity in that continent. The two hotspots of subterranean biodiversity are the Toca do Gonçalo cave (22 spp.) and Areias cave systems (28 spp.). The cave species, some of them considered relict species, belong to the Platyhelminthes (1 sp.), Nemertea (1 sp.), Gastropoda (2 spp.), Amphipoda (2) Isopoda (7), Decapoda (1), Collembola (5), Coleoptera (5), Ensifera (1), Sternorrhyncha (1), Zygentoma (1), Diplopoda (6) Chilopoda (5) Araneae (2), Opiliones (1) Palpigradi (2), Pseudoscorpiones (4), and Osteicthyes (2). Although both caves, together, have 50 troglobitic species, only 38% of these species are formally described. Both caves have perennial water bodies, but terrestrial obligate cave invertebrates are dominant in number of species in both systems (around 77%). While the Areias system is partially contained in a conservation unit, Toca do Gonçalo cave is currently unprotected, although it certainly deserves protection.

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Review Article Tue, 19 Jul 2016 12:00:41 +0300
New distribution records of cave-dwelling gekkonid lizards (Sauria, Gekkonidae and Phyllodactylidae) in the Zagros Mountains of Iran https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/8185/ Subterranean Biology 18: 39-47

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.18.8185

Authors: Somayeh Esmaeili-Rineh, Vahid Akmali, Farajollah Fathipour, Nastaran Heidari, Nasrullah Rastegar-Pouyani

Abstract: The distribution of cave-dwelling lizards of the families Gekkonidae and Phyllodactylidae (Sauria) was investigated in the Zagros Mountains of Iran. Obtained information includes new distribution records of species from 15 caves. The caves are Bendireh, Taigeh, Ban, Zarrinabad, Ghadah, Kulkani, and Darhamreh in Ilam Province, Pelazh, Gavbar and Asmari in Khuzestan Province, Tadovan, Manian and Sangeshkan in Fars Province and Dalaki and Khesht in Bushehr Province. In this study, five species belonging to the Gekkonidae and Phyllodactylidae families were recorded including: Asaccus elisae, Asaccus nasrullahi, Hemidactylus persicus, Cyrtopodion scabrum, and Cyrtopodion gastrophole.

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Research Article Fri, 10 Jun 2016 16:39:20 +0300
Water quality and biotic interaction of two cavefish species: Typhleotris madagascariensis Petit, 1933 and Typhleotris mararybe Sparks & Chakrabarty, 2012, in the Mahafaly Plateau groundwater system, Madagascar https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/8321/ Subterranean Biology 18: 1-16

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.18.8321

Authors: Jean Robertin Rasoloariniaina, Joerg U. Ganzhorn, Jana C. Riemann, Noromalala Raminosoa

Abstract: The karstic subterranean aquatic system of the Mahafaly Plateau in south-western Madagascar is inhabited by two species of cavefish: Typhleotris madagascariensis and Typhleotris mararybe. Knowledge about both cavefish species is scant. In order to learn more about the distribution of the two species, 15 caves and sinkholes spread over the Mahafaly Plateau were inventoried for their presence. Abiotic water quality and interspecific relations of the two species were investigated in six of these caves and five of the sinkholes during the dry and the rainy seasons. Typhleotris madagascariensis was present in all sampled water bodies while T. mararybe was restricted to five sites in the region around the town of Itampolo. The inventories extend the known range of both species of Typhleotris on the Mahafaly Plateau. Abiotic water characteristics did not differ between seasons. The abundances of both species were negatively correlated with iron concentrations. Further correlations between the abundance of either fish species and abiotic water characteristics remained inconclusive as these water characteristics co-varied with geographical latitude that in turn was correlated with fish abundance. For both species neither the abundance nor a condition factor based on body mass showed any significant seasonal variation. Also the presence of T. mararybe had no influence on the abundance and the condition of T. madagascariensis. Thus, no evidence for competition was noticed between the two species.

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Review Article Fri, 20 May 2016 10:33:44 +0300
Spontaneous behavior of basal Copionodontinae cave catfishes from Brazil (Teleostei, Siluriformes, Trichomycteridae) https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/5180/ Subterranean Biology 16: 61-77

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.16.5180

Authors: Bianca Rantin, Maria Bichuette

Abstract: Cave animals are particularly interesting due to their behavioral specializations, resultant from evolution in isolation. We present data from a spontaneous behavior study (spatial distribution and preference for microhabitats) of two troglobitic catfish from Brazil: Glaphyropoma spinosum and a new species of Copionodon. We compared the data with those obtained of a sympatric epigean species, Copionodon pecten. These Trichomycteridae species belong to a basal and apparently monophyletic subfamily – Copionodontinae, endemic to Chapada Diamantina, central Bahia state, eastern Brazil. We observed the fishes in natural and laboratory conditions through ad libitum and focal animal methods. Each spatial behavioral category (hidden, bottom, midwater, surface and wall swimming and stationary in the bottom) was timed individually, with a sample of 12 specimens per species. Unlike most troglobitic fishes, cave copionodontines tested herein did not extend exploratory behavior to midwater, with benthonic and thigmotactic-related exploratory behavior. This behavior is possibly related to its feeding behavior specializations, strong territorialism and photophobic behavior. The epigean Copionodon species is also benthonic. The spatial behavior of the cave Copionodontinae could be interpreted as a retained and plesiomorphic character-state in relation to other trichomycterid catfishes.

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Research Article Fri, 7 Aug 2015 09:47:17 +0300
Asymmetry compensation in a small vampire bat population in a cave: a case study in Brazil https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/4807/ Subterranean Biology 15: 57-67

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.15.4807

Authors: Amanda Ueti, Paulo Santos Pompeu, Rodrigo Lopes Ferreira

Abstract: Normally, the wings are assumed to be symmetrical, since radical departure from symmetry is known to hinder flight. The objective of the present paper was to investigate the symmetry of the wing structure in a population of common vampire bats, Desmodus rotundus. The bones of both wings were measured, and the area of each wing was calculated. Asymmetry was found, with males having a larger number of asymmetric bone structures than females. Moreover, both directional asymmetry and antisymmetry were identified for the males, whereas for the females only fluctuating asymmetry was found. However, although asymmetry does occur, it is generally compensated for by complementary changes in the structures of the other wing. We believe that by keeping the wing area symmetrical, potential aerodynamic problems may be minimized.

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Research Article Fri, 15 May 2015 16:05:20 +0300
Observation of the Catfish Chaetostoma microps Climbing in a Cave in Tena, Ecuador https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/4809/ Subterranean Biology 15: 29-35

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.15.4809

Authors: Geoffrey Hoese, Aaron Addison, Theofilos Toulkeridis, Rickard Toomey III

Abstract: As part of a mapping and preliminary flora and fauna inventory of hypogean life in caves, developed in Cretaceous limestones in the sub-andean zone of Ecuador, we were able to observe a number of catfish climbing a steep flowstone waterfall in the dark zone of a cave. The waterfall was a minor infeeder to the small stream that flowed through the cave. On investigation the fish were determined to be Chaetostoma microps Günther, 1864 (SiluriformesLoricariidae), a detritivorous–herbivorous neotropical freshwater catfish, endemic to the upper reaches of the Amazon basin in Ecuador. We document the observation of this species exhibiting climbing behavior as well as the first observation of the family exhibiting climbing behavior in a cave. We also document the sympatry of this species and Astroblepus pholeter Collette, 1962 (SiluriformesAstroblepidae).

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Research Article Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:44:36 +0300
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.

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Research Article Wed, 8 Jan 2014 00:00:00 +0200
Rana iberica (Boulenger, 1879) goes underground: subterranean habitat usage and new insights on natural history https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1309/ Subterranean Biology 11: 15-29

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.11.5170

Authors: Gonçalo Rosa, Andreia Penado

Abstract: Reports of amphibians exploiting subterranean habitats are common, with salamanders being the most frequent and studied inhabitants. Anurans can occasionally be observed in caves and other subterranean habitats, but in contrast to salamanders, breeding had never been reported in a cave or similar subterranean habitat in Western Europe. Based on observations during visits to a drainage gallery in Serra da Estrela, Portugal, from May 2010 to December 2012, here we document: (i) first report of Rana iberica reproduction in cave-like habitat, representing the fourth report of an anuran for the Palearctic ecozone; (ii) oophagic habits of the tadpoles of R. iberica; and (iii) Salamandra salamandra predation on R. iberica larvae. These observations, particularly of R. iberica, highlight our lack of knowledge of subterranean ecosystems in the Iberian Peninsula.

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Research Article Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0300
Dandak: a mammalian dominated cave ecosystem of India https://subtbiol.pensoft.net/article/1277/ Subterranean Biology 8: 1-8

DOI: 10.3897/subtbiol.8.1224

Authors: Jayant Biswas, Shivam Shrotriya

Abstract: Perpetual darkness, high humidity with almost constant geophysical factors are some of the abiotic factors which make the cave ecosystem unique. For any species a high degree of adaptation is always needed to thrive in such an ecosystem. Mammals in general have never adapted to cave life but they can play a major role in the cave ecosystem. Structurally, the Dandak cave has two distinct chambers that are completely different from each other in several geophysical factors. Thus both the cave chambers offer two distinct types of ecological niche. In the present study we found that both chambers of this cave were dominated by mammals all year round. Additionally, the group of mammals using the outer chamber completely differs from the group using the inner one. Possible geophysical factors responsible for such differences are discussed.

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