Biospeleological Study of the Phuljhar Cave of Gariaband, Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

Biospeleological status of the Indian cave is still less known. Till date, very few caves have been biologically explored in India. This study aims to document and categorize the different species found in a Talus cave in Gariabandh district, Chhatisgarh, India. In addition to most of the common cavernicolous species found inside the subterranean caves, we also identified some unique species that no other cave in India has ever recorded. This cave is also a sheltered place for some dreaded wild animals due to which high alertness is always required to visit this cave. Finally, on the basis of the identified species and other biotic substances found inside this cave, we have also prepared a tentative food pyramid that possibly operating inside this cave