Publications
Effects of stream permanence on stonefly (Insecta, Plecoptera) community structure at Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, USA
Stonefly communities at Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, USA, exhibit significant differences based on stream permanence. The study found that 88% of the 34 stonefly species collected had univoltine-fast life cycles and 79% likely experienced extended egg or larval diapause, enabling survival in intermittent habitats. Spring runs, spring seeps, and summer dry streams harbored distinct assemblages compared to upland perennial streams, with larger lotic system species filtered out due to habitat limitations. The research employed a 14-month sampling regime (December 2018–November 2019) across 45 sites, including both adult and larval collections, to assess these patterns.
Landscape-scale distribution of tree roosts of the northern long-eared bat in Mammoth Cave National Park, USA
Female northern long-eared bats (Myotis septentrionalis) in Mammoth Cave National Park, USA, predominantly select roost sites within 2000 meters of known hibernacula, favoring higher elevations in mesic upland deciduous forests near water sources and road corridors. This landscape-scale pattern, identified through mist-netting and radiotelemetry from 2015 to 2016, challenges traditional microhabitat-focused conservation strategies by highlighting the importance of broader spatial considerations for effective maternity habitat management. The study underscores the need for empirically-based, large-scale assessments to inform policies aimed at conserving this declining species.
Shifts in Assemblage of Foraging Bats at Mammoth Cave National Park following Arrival of White-nose Syndrome
White-nose syndrome (WNS), which arrived in North America in 2006, has significantly altered the foraging bat assemblage at Mammoth Cave National Park. A study analyzing mist net capture data from 2009 to 2016 revealed a notable shift in species abundance. The Northern Long-eared Myotis (Myotis septentrionalis), once the most common species, declined to 18.5% of its pre-WNS levels. Conversely, the Evening Bat (Nycticeius humeralis) showed the largest increase in capture success post-WNS arrival, followed by the Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus) and Eastern Red Bat (Lasiurus borealis). These changes suggest that WNS is reshaping foraging bat communities, with less affected species potentially occupying niche space vacated by those severely impacted by the disease. The study highlights the broader ecological implications of WNS on forest-dwelling bats.
A Descriptive Study of Guided Tours at Mammoth Cave National Park
A recent decline in cave tour attendance across the United States has been partially addressed through a study at Mammoth Cave National Park, revealing that guided tours are highly valued by visitors despite low crowding levels. The research, conducted via a mail-back survey of 660 visitors, found high approval ratings and perceived value for the fee paid, suggesting potential strategies to counteract attendance drops. This study highlights the importance of understanding social aspects of visitation in cave settings, where guided tours are often the sole means of exploration.
Historical GIS as a Platform for Public Memory at Mammoth Cave National Park
A historical GIS platform for Mammoth Cave National Park reveals the landscape's transition from a farming community to a protected national park, preserving public memory of its pre-park inhabitants. The Mammoth Cave Historical GIS (MCHGIS) overlays 1920 census data at the household level with streaming topographic maps and georeferences Civilian Conservation Corps photographs, enabling visualization and analysis of population dynamics on the eve of park establishment. This web-based interface broadens access to archival holdings while integrating public participation GIS techniques to create a virtual site of public memory, supplementing institutional history with privately donated materials.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Mammoth Cave National Park