IITAA
IITAA (Institute for Investigation and Technology of Agronomy and Environment) is very much engaged and has the know how to pursuit studies on insular climate characterization / prediction and effects of global change on communities from the open ocean to the islands tops, modernize agriculture ... Read more »
PROJECTS
Understanding Underground Biodiversity: Studies of Azorean Lava Tubes
Food Science and Health2008 - 2012
Summary
FCT - PTDC/AMB/70801/2006
Little is known concerning distribution, population dynamics and biogeochemical processes of cave microorganisms. Knowledge on cave microbial diversity is often based on culturedependent studies, which underestimate the diversity present due to inability to culture many microorganisms. Azorean caves appear very rich in microbial mats. However, culture-independent molecular studies are required to understand their microbial diversity. Preliminary studies (Northup et al. 2006 in press) in lava tubes in USA, have shown a large microbial diversity, including novel organisms. Actinomycetes, known as a major source of antibiotics, are among the most abundant microorganisms in USA lava tubes. Some of these represent new taxonomic families. Azorean microbial mats are similar in appearance to those in USA and may therefore represent novel diversity. Caves represent an untapped environment in which to search for bioactive compounds, such as antibiotics, produced by microorganisms. Azorean volcanic caves are unique spaces and four of them have been recently (2004) classified as Regional Natural Monuments (in Terceira, S. Miguel, Pico and Graciosa). Algar do Carvão (Terceira) has been the subject of several biological investigations.
The cave tourism has been increasing in the Azores. However, human impact can change the dynamic equilibrium of cave natural environment. Visitors impact air quality and bring alien microrganisms into the cave. Artificial lighting alters the light environment, increases the mean temperature and decreases the relative humidity. These new conditions may encourage colonization and spread of numerous microbial groups and limit the growth of local ones. Cave microbiological mats may be difficult to reach and expensive to identify. Therefore, arthropods and bryophytes will be examined as surrogate biological indicators. We will also document whether arthropod groups feed on bacterial mats.
We propose to conduct an educational campaign about caves, addressing issues such as low-impact tourism in caves, cave microorganisms useful to humans. This campaign will comprise a web page, leaflets and posters for cave visitors, schools and general public
COORDINATORS
Team
Funding Institution
Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT)
Partners
Diana E. Northup, University of New Mexico Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001 USA
Kenneth Ingham Consulting, LLC 1601 Rita Dr NE Albuquerque, NM 87106-1127
RESOURCES
