The invertebrate community of the Peak-Speedwell cave system, Derbyshire, England ? pressures and considerations for conservation management

Abstract

1. The freshwater ecology of cave ecosystems has been poorly studied when compared with surface (epigean) systems. Most subterranean communities are typified by low abundance and low diversity of fauna due to the absence of primary production and other readily available organic carbon sources. 2. The macroinvertebrate community within the inter-connected Peak–Speedwell cave system in the English Peak District was examined over a 2-year period. The communities found in the surface streams which supply recharge to the Speedwell Cavern stream, and the communities in the three springs which discharge water from the cave system, were also examined. 3. Changes in the community were strongly associated with seasonal variations and natural hydrological variability. Spatial patterns within the caves reflect differences in water sources (sinking streams or percolation water) and in the ability of the organisms to survive and move through subterranean environments. 4. The majority of taxa recorded within the caves were also found at the surface either in the sinking streams or in the springs. 5. Threats to cave geo-ecosystems, including quarrying, agriculture, waste disposal, groundwater abstraction and tourism/recreation, are examined and discussed in relation to the management and conservation of subterranean environments. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.