Diversity of Soil Nematodes in the Treatened Ecosystems of Ponicka Cave.

Researchers identified 54 nematode species across 9 orders, with the highest diversity (44 species) found in karst springs and sinkholes near Ponicka Cave. Bacterivores dominated all sites, highlighting their ecological significance. The study reveals distinct nematode compositions linked to environmental conditions, underscoring the importance of soil biota in cave ecosystem health. This is the first comprehensive analysis of free-living and plant-parasitic nematodes in this vulnerable Slovak Karst region, providing critical insights for conservation efforts.

Cerevkova, A., Renco, M., & Bobulska, L. (2023). DIVERSITY OF SOIL NEMATODES IN THE TREATENED ECOSYSTEMS OF PONICKA CAVE. 23rd SGEM International Multidisciplinary Scientific GeoConference Proceedings 2023, Nano, Bio, Green and Space: Technologies for a Sustainable Future, Vol. 23, Issue 6.2, 23, 747–754. https://doi.org/10.5593/sgem2023v/6.2/s29.91