Microorganisms in Hypogeon: Examples from Slovenian Karst Caves

Janez Mulec

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Publication Date

6-1-2008

Publication Title

Acta Carsologica

Volume Number

37

Issue Number

1

Abstract

In caves microorganisms inhabit distinct habitats where they develop various interactions. As an evidence of microbial activ­ity several features can be identified. Microorganisms are in­volved bothin lithogenic and litholitic processes. Besides het­erotrophs in caves autotrophic organisms can be also expected. Some cyanobacteria and microalgae in caves can survive even at photon flux densities lower than their photosynthetic compen­sation point. In the paper up-to-date identified groups of mi­croorganisms (bacteria, cyanobacteria, microalgae, fungi and protozoa) withtheir localities in Slovenian caves are presented. Especially bacteria from caves, as the most diverse group, of­fer immense biotechnological and bioremediation potential. In caves microbial biomass can be considered a considerable food source for cave-dwelling higher organisms. Caves in Slovenia offer great chances to discover new species, as was fungus Mu­cor troglophilus discovered in association withthe cave cricket Troglophilus neglectus.

Document Type

Article

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.3986/ac.v37i1.167

Language

English

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