The world’s longest known flooded coastal caves are hidden in the karst of the Yucatan Peninsula. Within these extended anchialine (meaning “near the sea”) cave systems, subterranean rivers flow toward the coast linking terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The objectives of this project unfold in three complementary directions:

(1) Organic matter flow will be studied within and among anchialine cave systems and adjacent environments by employing naturally abundant stable isotopes (carbon and nitrogen) as tracers. The main goals are: first, to assess spatial variations in terrestrial organic matter inputs along the cave system (i.e. organic material transported vertically or laterally into the subterranean waterways from different surface environments); and second, to quantify the importance of different organic matter sources for the unique cave-adapted food web community. Satisfying these goals will help us better understand mutual ecological regulatory factors that exist between anchialine waterways and nearby habitats. Moreover, the consequences of different human impacts (e.g. deforestation) will be better predicted.

(2) Contaminant transport within the underground passages will be investigated. Environmental threats due to rapid development, fertilizers, absence of drainage, leaking septic tanks, and deep well injection of sewage are all contributing factors to the contamination of groundwater and anchialine systems in the region. Numerous water quality parameters will be measured within the cave system and nearby habitats to gain better knowledge on the level and extent of pollution in association with these ecosystems.

(3) We will raise awareness locally and internationally of the threats of contaminating anchialine caves and cenotes. A short educational video will be made to increase awareness of the importance of anchialine ecosystems by emphasizing their biological, ecological and economical values. In addition, this film will share novel scientific findings with the most affected communities rapidly and educate the public on the importance of conserving these habitats.