Learning a Little bit more. Requesting a little help.

[Akroedge540]

I've recently gotten the great opportunity to expand my diving a bit and I've seen a LOT more than I expected. It's amazing the amount of life you can see in a less traveled area. I took this still from a gopro video today of this little creature, I don't know much about cave creatures and would like to learn more. Can anyone point me in a good direction to do a little reading?


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[nakatomi]

This page gives a great overview. It will tell you which species exist in each individual area. You can then copy & paste the names of the critters to Wikipedia or google to find out more about them:

http://water.usgs.gov/ogw/karst/kigc...freshwater.htm

Here's another general link:

http://geology.com/stories/13/troglobites/

Finally, this one here is great as it contains pictures and descriptions of the most common species in our caves:

http://www.scubadiver.cc/forums/foru...hp?7-Cave-Life

[Akroedge540]

You're awesome! Thank you!


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[Kelly Jessop]

Where was this taken? From the appearance it looks like Peacock. If so, the species you are more likely seeing are isopods and amphipods,which there are 3 species you will see. The isopods have a symmetrical body shape (legs to the front/sides,with long antennae),while both amphipod species have there legs to the front. If you look at the Florida Natural Areas Inventory list you will find they are imperiled,so collecting for curiosity is discouraged,and against the law. What is known about them is not much,because there hasn't been any ongoing studies-until now. We have been collecting data for the last 10 years,and the last 2 years collecting real time water quality data,which the statistical data reveals some interesting patterns. Also, Dr Thomas Sawicki has been doing studies on amphipods,which includes Peacock. If you would like more information the North Florida Springs Alliance will be hosting their annual advanced skills workshop August 23rd at Peacock,and the people doing the research will be presenting and answering questions. The workshop is free to members and $15 nonmembers.