, 205
Using species occurrence, landscape, and anthropogenic data, the relative vulnerability and threat level of caves in a region can be assessed. Broad-scale assessments are particularly useful in areas where data coverage is sparse or otherwise lacking. In this study, vulnerability ratings were generated for caves in the state of Alabama using a regional spatially-explicit threat vulnerability assessment modeling approach.
Despite the state's exceptional diversity of subterranean fauna, current literature lacks any vulnerability analyses focused on Alabama. In this study, factors analyzed included size and proximity of nearby human populations, characteristics of land usage types near cave sites, and groundwater metrics relating to risks to water quantity and quality. A modified DRASTIK approach was also developed and contributed to the aquatic species assessments. In addition, updated species distribution maps were generated for terrestrial and aquatic cave-obligate and bat species.
The current status of major threats associated with each group was assessed, and species and cave systems were identified as priorities for conservation actions. This study contributes an integrated hybrid method for cave vulnerability analysis, considering both metrics of biological diversity and landscape factors impacting subterranean ecosystems. The creation of this method furthers our understanding of the patterns and factors driving vulnerability of subterranean biodiversity, as well as the general knowledge and protection of caves.
C. Lael Anderson, Matthew L. Niemiller