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Cave fauna

Cave fauna refers to the unique animals that have adapted to live in underground caves. These creatures often exhibit special traits like loss of pigmentation, reduced or absent eyesight, and heightened senses of touch or smell. Since caves are dark and isolated environments, cave animals tend to have limited movement and specialized diets. They play important roles in their ecosystems, maintaining the balance of nutrient cycles within caves. Many cave species are rare or endemic, meaning they are found only in specific caves, making their conservation vital for biodiversity.