Species richness and conservation of caves in the Urucuia river sub-basin, a tributary of the San Francisco river: a case study in caves of Arinos, Minas Gerais, Brazil

Abstract

Inadequate land use and the overexploitation of natural resources are causing serious impacts on cave environments and therefore works that propose conservation actions become necessary. The objective of the present study was to gather information on the invertebrate fauna of seven caves in the region of Arinos, in the northwest of Minas Gerais state, proposing priorities and conservation measures. A total of 374 species were registered, seven with troglomorphic traits. The expansion of agricultural practices and the pollution of water bodies are the most worrisome threats. The recovery of the cave surroundings and the awareness of nearby landowners are priority actions to be developed. The creation of reserves and corridors make up alternatives for the conservation of this important heritage.