Collecting and processing crustaceans from anchialine and marine caves

Abstract

Anchialine caves are inland, salinity stratified, submerged caves in limestone or volcanic basalt, whereas marine caves are located offshore, completely beneath the seafloor. These caves contain a remarkable biodiversity, with numerous, new higher taxa being recorded in recent decades. While some faunas are Tethyan relicts with highly anomalous distributions, others have relatives inhabiting the deep sea. Cave diving is an essential tool for investigating these wholly submerged environments. As an option to standard open circuit scuba, closed circuit rebreathers provide extended dive time and minimize disturbances to the animal life. Collection techniques involve the use of plankton nets, individual vials, suction bottles, and baited traps. Preservatives include ethanol, RNA-later or special fixatives, depending upon their ultimate purpose.