The study of amphipods in rimstone pools of Akiyoshi-do Cave, Japan

By

Ando, Kanato

Type

Article

Date of Publication

2019

Original Publication

Subterranean Biology

Volume

32

Pages

81--94

Subjects

Amphipod , human impact , Protection , show cave , Water quality

Contributed by

Pensoft Publishers

Language

English

Published by

Sofia, Bulgaria Pensoft Publishers

Identifiers

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3897/subtbiol.32.35031

 

Abstract

Akiyoshi-do Cave is the largest show cave in Japan and has been recognised as a hotspot of cave animals due to their diversity in species. Human-induced alterations in the cave environment have been a significant concern catching the attention of tourists and managers. Previous studies indicated water quality alteration induced by tourism could affect the population densities of amphipods. However, no study went further than qualitative observation in terms of human impacts. This study targets two amphipods living in Akiyoshi-do Cave, Pseudocrangonyx akatsukai and Gammarus nipponensis and measures water characteristics in which they live. Results show that the population densities of the amphipods have decreased compared to the 1970s. Their living habitat has changed, probably induced by tourism.