Microorganisms in Hypogeon: Examples from Slovenian Karst Caves

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.