Bat dynamics modelling as a tool for conservation management in subterranean environments

Area of Science:

• Subterranean ecology
• Bat conservation biology
• Geostatistics

Background:

• Bats rely on stable microclimates within subterranean habitats like caves and mines.
• Changes in microclimate can threaten vulnerable bat populations, necessitating conservation efforts, particularly in human-accessible show caves.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify suitable habitat patches for bats in subterranean environments using an ensemble species distribution modeling approach.
• To develop effective management strategies for the long-term conservation of bat hibernation and maternity colonies in show caves.

Main Methods:

• Conducted multi-annual temperature monitoring and bat distribution surveys across ten caves and mines.
• Employed an ensemble species distribution modeling approach using temperature-based variables to map relevant habitat patches for five bat species.

Main Results:

• Temperature-based variables were effective in species distribution models, yielding optimal validation results, even for clustered bat colonies.
• Identified key microclimatic habitat patches crucial for bat survival within subterranean environments.

Conclusions:

• The developed species distribution modeling approach is effective for identifying critical bat habitats in complex subterranean environments.
• Proposed management measures, including ecological reconstruction and tourist management, are recommended for show cave conservation efforts.
• This large-scale, geostatistically challenging approach can serve as a best practice guideline for future subterranean conservation projects.