Mammoth Cave: A Hotspot of Subterranean Biodiversity in the United States

Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, USA, is identified as a global hotspot for subterranean biodiversity, particularly terrestrial species. The study compiles an updated list of 49 cave-limited fauna, including 32 troglobionts and 17 stygobionts, with seven species endemic to the park and 33 species having their type locality in Mammoth Cave. This exceptional diversity is attributed to factors such as high dispersal potential, surface productivity, and extensive exploration history. Notably, nearly 80% of these cave-limited fauna are of conservation concern, facing elevated extinction risks due to small ranges and multiple threats.

Niemiller, M. L., Helf, K., & Toomey, R. S. (2021). Mammoth Cave: A Hotspot of Subterranean Biodiversity in the United States. Diversity, 13(8), 373. https://doi.org/10.3390/d13080373