Sulfidic Habitats in the Frasassi Caves, Italy: A Hotspot of Subterranean Biodiversity

Caves in the Frasassi Gorge (Marche, Italy) contain numerous sulfidic habitats that represent hotspots of subterranean biodiversity. They host unusually rich and diverse invertebrate communities that display specific adaptations to cave life. As in other sulfidic subterranean ecosystems discovered worldwide, primary production in Frasassi’s sulfidic sections is fueled by chemoautotrophic sulfur-oxidizing microorganisms. Conversely, fewer animals are present in cave sections where trophic resources depend on surface input. Numerous aquatic and terrestrial species of invertebrates have been identified in Frasassi’s sulfidic and non-sulfidic habitats, including 12 endemic species. Specific adaptations to extreme environmental conditions have been identified in some species.