Correlation between environmental factors and springtail species (Hexapoda: Collembola) inhabiting Jangamgul Cave of Korea

Abstract

This study was conducted with the purpose of comparing Collembolan species composition among habitats inside the cave and finding environmental variables that affect this species composition. Using a semi-quantitative sampling method, we studied the correlation between Collembolan species and environmental factors. Sampling frequencies were once every two months from May 2019 to May 2020 in three ecological zones. Collembola inhabiting inside Jangamgul Cave were found to have totaled 20 species, 15 genera, and 8 families. The highest Shannon diversity index was observed in site 1 with the highest abundance. There was, however, no significant difference in all species community indices. Soil moisture, air humidity, and soil pH showed significant differences between the three zones. However, Collembolan species composition seems to be more related to favorite environmental characteristics such as organic materials and habitat conditions than to these specific factors. Gulgastrura reticulosa Yosii, 1966, although found in the entrance zone, showed the characteristics of troglobite species because this zone has sparse places covered with leaf litter and soil which are called microcavern. Mesogastrura sp. was collected mostly from bat guano with soil piled up at twilight zone and dark zone with varying temperature. This species is considered guanophilous like other Mesogastrura species reported in caves of Europe.