Current Research Activities
Factors that sometimes complicate studies of cave invertebrates include small indigenous populations, limited (seasonal) activity, and highly localized occupied habitats for some species. Additional searching, observation and sampling will need to be accomplished before we can complete species descriptions and reach a basic understanding of the ecology of some of these species.
Stamnoderus sp. - undescribed beetle
We are studying the ecology of this beetle (in part) to determine if the species is indigenous to the cave, or whether it may have been introduced. Since both adults and larvae are potentially predatory, there is the potential for them adversely impacting some of the endemic invertebrates living in the cave (provided that the beetle has indeed been introduced). If the species is a long-term resident of the caverns, it is probably in harmony with the existing invertebrate ecology of the cave, and would thus not present a risk to other endemic species . Determining whether the beetles also live in the park outside of the cave will be explored using ultraviolet light and pit trapping testing methods. We also plan to provide a formal description for the species. |
Pseudouroctonus nr. apacheanus - cave scorpion
We believe that the population of this scorpion is restricted to the cave. We have conducted several searches on the surface above the cave using ultraviolet lights at night, and have not yet encountered the species. We are continuing to search on the surface both within the park and in other areas of the Whetstone Mountains to determine if the species is present in the range, and whether it occurs on the surface in proximity to the cave. We plan to perform a genetic analysis to determine its relationship within the Pseudouroctonus minimus complex, which occurs in the region, and whether it is a distinct species. |
Cambalid millipede - undescribed species
We have only found three dead individuals of this species in the cave, and intact specimens will be needed for the formal species description. We presume that the animals are still present in the cave, but they are apparently either very rare or may occur primarily in areas inaccessible to humans. We continue to search for this elusive animal. |
Cybaeid spiders - Neocryphoeca spp. - 2 undescribed species
We have two undescribed cave-adapted (troglobiotic) Cybaeid spiders that are endemic in the cave. One species is totally blind and de-pigmented, and the other has remnant elements of eyes and is minimally pigmented. Descriptions of these species are planned, and are in the queue for study within the next few years. |
Anaspis nr. rufa - undescribed beetle
We are fairly certain that this beetle is an undescribed species. We are currently trying to find out more about its ecology within the cave, and plan to conduct genetic studies to confirm its status as a new species. Studies will involve surface sampling for individuals of A. rufa in the park (if present) or elsewhere for genetic comparison. |
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