par Brancelj, Anton;Stoch, Fabio 
Référence Encyclopedia of Inland Waters, Second Edition, Elsevier, Vol. 3, page (449-459)
Publication Publié, 2022-01
Référence Encyclopedia of Inland Waters, Second Edition, Elsevier, Vol. 3, page (449-459)
Publication Publié, 2022-01
Partie d'ouvrage collectif
| Résumé : | This chapter introduces the structure and ecology of karstic subterranean habitats that support a diverse and specialized fauna from tropical to sub-polar zones. These karstic habitats are distinguished in four main functional vertical layers, i.e., the epikarst, vadose, epiphreatic and phreatic zones, which are controlled by local climate conditions, particularly temperature, precipitation, and subsurface hydrology, alongside vegetation. All these factors have been affected by human activity to varying degrees in the past and present. Water enters the karstic subterranean environment through rain and snowmelt, which infiltrates vertically through the four zones, or enters a particular zone as temporary or permanent streams and rivers. Outlets of karstic habitats are temporary or permanent springs. Ecological conditions, especially living space, hydrology and the amount of available organic material determine the community structure within a given karstic zone. The structure of stygofauna, both functional (body size, feeding habits) and compositional (species diversity), is in close relation with habitat structure and environmental conditions. |
