Landcare Research - Manaaki Whenua

Landcare-Research -Manaaki Whenua

Subterranean or semi-subterranean

Cave entrance (Cissy Pan)

Cave entrance (Cissy Pan)

Subterranean ecosystems are exposed to air but occur under the ground. Although cave entrances and sinkholes can support unique plant species, subterranean systems are more often noted for the unique fauna they support. Cave animals often exhibit a loss of pigmentation (colour) and partial or total loss of eyes and can be very narrowly distributed.

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