No 5. Caves of Yildiz Mountains and their fauna

Transkript

No.5: Caves of the Yildiz Mountains and
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CAVES OF THE YILDIZ MOUNTAINS AND THEIR FAUNA
This document may be cited as:
YMBP (2010). Caves of the Yildiz Mountains and their fauna. Report prepared on behalf AGRER-AgriconsultingAGRIN by BUMAD (E. Çoraman, Y. Özakin, Y. Çelik, M. Döker, K. Kunt, and E. Özel) for the Ministry of
Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project Report Series No. 5.
Other documents in this series of reports prepared by the Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project are as follows:
Land and vegetation cover, habitat and landscape mapping of the Yildliz Mountains, using satellite remote
sensing and GIS techniques. A report prepared on behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN by S. Berberoğlu, C.
Donmez, O. Şatir for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project
Report Series No. 1.
Eco-hydrology of Yıldız Mountains. A report prepared on behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN by Yusuf
Serengil for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project Report
Series No. 2
Flora of Yildiz Mountains. A report prepared on behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN by N. Özhatay, E.
Akalin, Y. Yeşil, S. Demirci, N. Güler, and H. Ersoy for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz
Mountains Biosphere Project Report Series No. 3.
Fauna of Yildiz Mountains. A report prepared on behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN by M. Sözen and A.
Karataş for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project Report
Series No. 4.
Diversity and distribution of birds in the Yildiz Mountains. Report prepared on behalf of AGRER-AgriconsultingAGRIN by Korhan Özkan for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz Mountains Biosphere
Project Report Series No. 6.
A participatory approach to planning the management of the proposed Yildiz Mountains Biosphere. Report
prepared on behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN by S. Alpan Atamer, Sevgi Gül and Okan Can for the
Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project Report Series No. 7.
Resource management in the proposed Yildiz Mountains: a community-based approach. Report prepared on
behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN by Francis Hurst for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara.
Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project Report Series No. 8.
Identification and valuation of ecosystem goods and services in the Yildiz Mountains. A report prepared on
behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN by Dominic Moran for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara.
Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project Report Series No. 9.
Social profiling of villages in the Yildiz Mountains. A report prepared on behalf of AGRER-Agriconsulting-AGRIN
by Dominic Moran and Axel Tarisse for the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Ankara. Yildiz Mountains
Biosphere Project Report Series No. 10.
Yildiz Mountains Biosphere Project Report Series No. 5
i
Table of contents
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ................................................................................................ 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ............................................................................................... 2
ÖZET .................................................................................................................... 3
1.
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 4
1.1
GEOMORPHOLOGY OF YILDIZ MOUNTAINS ......................................................................4
1.2
ARCHAEOLOGY OF THE YILDIZ MOUNTAINS .....................................................................5
1.3
BIOSPELEOLOGY ...............................................................................................6
1.3.1
bAt species ...........................................................................................6
1.3.2
Invertebrate Cave Fauna ...........................................................................7
2.
MATERIALS AND METHODS ................................................................................... 8
2.1
2.2
3.
FIELD SURVEY RESULTS....................................................................................... 9
3.1
3.2
4.
BAT POPULATIONS .............................................................................................8
CAVE INVERTEBRATES..........................................................................................9
BAT POPULATIONS ........................................................................................... 12
INVERTEBRATES .......................................................................................... 15
CAVE CONSERVATION PRIORITY EVALUATIONS ......................................................... 24
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
4.10
4.11
4.12
4.13
4.14
4.15
4.16
4.17
4.18
4.19
4.20
4.21
4.22
4.23
4.24
4.25
4.26
BAĞLAR CAVE ............................................................................................... 25
BEZIRGAN CAVE ............................................................................................. 26
BOSTANLIKTARLA CAVE ...................................................................................... 28
ÇATALYOL SINKHOLE ........................................................................................ 29
CENEVIZ CAVE ............................................................................................... 31
DUPNISA CAVE SYSTEM ...................................................................................... 32
DUPNISA CAVE (SULU KOL) .................................................................................. 33
KURU VE CAVE (DUPNISA SYSTEM) ........................................................................... 34
KIZ CAVE (DUPNISA SYSTEM) ................................................................................ 35
KALE I CAVE ................................................................................................. 38
KALE II CAVE ................................................................................................ 39
KALE III CAVE................................................................................................ 40
KIYIKÖY CAVE ............................................................................................... 41
KIZILAĞAÇ CAVE ............................................................................................. 43
KIZLAR CAVE ................................................................................................ 44
KOVANTAŞI CAVE ............................................................................................ 46
KOZARKA CAVE .............................................................................................. 47
KURUDERE (AĞIL) CAVE ..................................................................................... 48
KURUDERE (DOMUZDERE) CAVE ............................................................................. 49
MERMER CAVE ............................................................................................... 52
OCAK CAVE .................................................................................................. 53
PESTILIN CAVE............................................................................................... 54
TIRFEZ CAVE ................................................................................................ 55
UZUNTARLA CAVE ........................................................................................... 57
YENESU CAVE................................................................................................ 58
YEŞILLIK CAVE ............................................................................................... 61
5.
CONCLUSIONS .................................................................................................. 63
6.
REFERENCES ................................................................................................... 64
ii
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
2
3
4
5
6
Table
Table
Table
Table
Table
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8
9
10
11
Conservation status of bat species in Turkish Thrace, based on the IUCN Red List (IUCN, 2009),
and their dependence on underground habitats. .......................................................... 6
Distribution of bat, amphibian and invertebrate species recorded in the 26 surveyed caves. ..... 11
Bat species and their population estimates recorded in winter. ....................................... 13
Bat species and their population estimates recorded in summer. ..................................... 14
List of identified species in the Order Araneae (Spiders) ................................................ 17
List of identified species in the Orders Pseudoscorpionidea (Pseudo-scorpions) and Opiliones
(Harvestmen) .................................................................................................. 18
List of identified species in the Orders Glomerida, Julida and Chordeumatida ...................... 18
List of identified species in the Order Coleoptera (Beetles) ............................................ 19
List of identified species in the Order Isopoda ............................................................ 20
List of identified species in the Class Gastropoda ........................................................ 20
List of identified species in the Classes Clitellata, Chilopoda and Insecta ............................ 21
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
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Figure 9
Figure 10
Figure 11
Figure 12
Figure 13
Figure 14
Figure 15
Figure 16
Figure 17
Figure 18
Figure 19
In Yenesu Cave with local people (left); information desk at Dupnisa Cave Festival (right) ........... 4
Nyctalus leisleri caught by mist net in Dupnisa (left), measuring forearm length of bat (right) ...... 8
Spider samples (left); collecting water samples in Yenesu Cave (right) .................................. 9
Entrance to Sergen Suçıkan Cave (left); Triturus karelinii recorded in Yenesu Cave (right) .......... 10
Greater mouse-eared bat with nose syndrome (left); specimen collection (right) ..................... 12
Schreibers bats in Çatalyol Cave (left); Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (right) ........................... 12
A nursery colony of Rhinolophus euryale (left); Schreiber’s bat (right).................................. 14
Miniopterus schreibersii colony hibernating in Dupnisa (left); Rhinolophus ferrumequinum bats
hibernating (right) ............................................................................................... 14
Metellina merianae (left); Nesticus cellulanus (top right); Araneus sturmi (bottom right) ........... 16
Harpactea babori, Centromerus milleri, Meta bourneti (left from top to bottom); Porrhomma
convexum, Meta menardi, Larinioides cornutus (right from top to bottom) ............................ 17
Paranemastoma sp. (top left); Phalangium opilio (top right); Mitostoma gracile (bottom left);
Nelima pontica (bottom right) ................................................................................. 18
Anamastigona halophila (left); Mesoiulus kosswigi (right) ................................................. 19
Scutigera coleopteran (Order Glomerida, Family Scutigeridae) was the only member of the Chilopa
Class inventoried. ................................................................................................ 19
Paederus sp. (left); Laemostenus (P.) cimmerius (right) ................................................... 19
Haplophthalmus stygivagus (top left); Trichoptera sp. (bottom left); Ligidium hypnorum (top right);
Ligidium sp. (middle right); Trichoptera pupa (bottom right) ............................................. 20
Oxychilus sp. (left); Laciniaria plicata (right) ............................................................... 21
21
22
23
24
25
26
Trigonidium sp. (left); Lumbricus sp. (top right); Scolopendra sp. (bottom right) ..................... 22
Acaridae (top left); Yponomeutidae (bottom left); Ixodida (top right); Lepidoptera (bottom right) 22
Muscidae (top left); Mycetophilidae pupa (bottom left); Diplopoda (top right); Mycetophilidae
(bottom right) .................................................................................................... 23
Location of 26 surveyed caves within and peripheral to the proposed Yıldız Mountains Biosphere
(Project area). Sergen Suçıkan is a newly discovered cave that was not surveyed. ................... 24
Entrance to Bağlar Cave (left); marble quarry at the entrance to Bağlar Cave (right) ................ 25
Rhinolophus colony (left); Oxychillus sp. in Bağlar Cave (right) .......................................... 25
Map of Bağlar Cave .............................................................................................. 26
Entrance to Bezirgan Cave (left); narrow passage in Bezirgan Cave (right) ............................. 26
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (left); Rhinolophus euryale colony (right) ................................. 27
Map of Bezirgan Cave ........................................................................................... 27
Figure 27
Figure 28
Figure 29
Entrance to Bostanlıktarla Cave ............................................................................... 28
A pottery piece on flowstone formations (left); a tick (Ixodida) (right) ................................. 28
Map of Bostanlıktarla Cave ..................................................................................... 29
Figure 20
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
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Figure 30
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
Entrance to Çatalyol Cave (left); abseiling in Çatalyol Sinkhole (middle); shallow passage in Çatalyol
(right) 29
Part of Miniopterus schrebersii colony in Çatayol (left); a tick (right) ................................... 30
Map of Çatalyol Sinkhole ........................................................................................ 30
Entrance to Ceneviz Cave (left); stalactites in Ceneviz Cave (right) ..................................... 31
Invertebrates from Ceneviz Cave. ............................................................................. 31
Map of Ceneviz Cave ............................................................................................ 32
Entrance to Dupnisa Cave before and after it was opened to the public ................................ 33
Surveys in Dupnisa (left); Miniopterus schreibersii colony (right) ......................................... 33
Entrance to Kuru Cave (left); algae formation on the columns (right) ................................... 34
Meta menardi (left); pottery pieces in Kuru Cave (right) .................................................. 35
Entrance to Kız Cave (left); Rhinolophus blasii in Kız Cave (right) ....................................... 35
A guano pile in Kız Cave (left); identifying bat species (right) ............................................ 36
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53
Map of Dupnisa Cave System ................................................................................... 37
Entrance to Kale I Cave (left); taking samples (right) ...................................................... 38
Map of Kale I Cave ............................................................................................... 39
Entrance to Kale II Cave. ....................................................................................... 39
Map of Kale II Cave .............................................................................................. 40
Entrance to Kale III Cave ....................................................................................... 40
Map of Kale III Cave ............................................................................................. 41
Entrance to Kıyıköy Cave (left); Trigonidium sp. (right) ................................................... 42
A Rhinolophus euryale with her young in Kıyıköy Cave ..................................................... 42
Map of Kıyıköy Cave ............................................................................................. 43
Speleoterms in Kızılağaç Cave ................................................................................. 43
Map of Kızılağaç Cave ........................................................................................... 44
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
54
55
56
57
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
Entrance to Kızlar Cave (left); mapping the cave (right) .................................................. 44
Map of Kızlar Cave ............................................................................................... 45
Entrances to Kovantaşı Cave ................................................................................... 46
Map of Kovantaşı Cave .......................................................................................... 47
Entrance to Kozarka Cave (left); a spider in Kozarka (right) .............................................. 47
Map of Kozarka Cave ............................................................................................ 48
Entrance to Kurudere (Ağıl) Cave (left); Rhinolophus blasii (right) ....................................... 48
Map of Kurudere (Ağıl) Cave ................................................................................... 49
Map of Kurudere (Domuzdere) Cave .......................................................................... 51
Entrance to Mermer Cave (left); measuring bat’s forearm (right) ........................................ 52
Map of Mermer Cave............................................................................................. 52
Entrance to Ocak Cave (left); Meta menardi (right) ........................................................ 53
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
Figure
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
75
76
77
Map of Ocak Cave ................................................................................................ 53
Entrance to Pestilin Cave (left); Harpactea babori (right) ................................................. 54
Archaeological artefacts in Pestilin Cave..................................................................... 54
Map of Pestilin Cave ............................................................................................. 55
Entrance to Tirfez Cave (left); Rhinolophus hipposideros (right) ......................................... 55
Pottery pieces in Tirfez Cave .................................................................................. 56
Map of Tirfez Cave............................................................................................... 57
Entrance of Uzuntarla Cave (left); Rhinolophus blasii (right) ............................................. 57
Haplophthalmus stygivagus (left); Meta menardi (right) ................................................... 58
Map of Uzuntarla Cave .......................................................................................... 58
Flowstone formations in Yenesu Cave ........................................................................ 59
Map of Yenesu Cave ............................................................................................. 60
Figure 78
Figure 79
Entrance to Yeşillik Cave ....................................................................................... 61
Map of Yeşillik Cave ............................................................................................. 62
iv
v
Participants:
1. Emrah Çoraman (BUMAD)
20. Gül Deniz Salalı (İTÜMAK)
2. Mehmet Emre Döker (BUMAD)
21. Gökhan Gün (İTÜMAK)
3. Aslı Döker (BUMAD)
22. Emrah Özel (ANÜMAB)
4. Yaman Özakın (BUMAD)
23. Renin Öznur (ANÜMAB)
5. Oğuz Karaçuka (BUMAD)
24. Ekin Ertürk (ANÜMAB)
6. Yalın Emek Çelik (BUMAD)
25. Özge Tutar (ANÜMAB)
7. Nükhet Şentürk (BUMAD)
26. Pınar Yıldız (ANÜMAB)
8. Özgün Sarısoy (BUMAD)
27. Murat Yüksel (BUMAD)
9. Aydın Menderes (BUMAD)
28. Başak Akçakaya (BUMAD)
10. Kürşad Erson (BÜMAK)
29. Ahmet Şentürk (BÜMAK)
11. Adil Alibaş (BÜMAK)
30. İsmail Onur Gürses (BÜMAK)
12. Serkan Çimen (BÜMAK)
31. Gülfer Duran (BUMAD)
13. Seda Erdural (BÜMAK)
32. Zirve Yiğit (BUMAK)
14. Arzu Taghan (BÜMAK)
33. Sencer Çoltu (BUMAD)
15. İlker Özden (BÜMAK)
34. Yağmur Karabulut (BUMAD)
16. Merve Aşaner (BÜMAK)
35. Kayhan Ata (BÜMAK)
17. Melis Oktay (BÜMAK)
36. Merve Çevik (İTÜMAK)
18. Atilla Evrim Gücün (BÜMAK)
37. Barış Kurt (BUMAD)
19. Utku Aslantaş (BÜMAK)
38. Havva Yıldırım Çoltu (BUMAD)
Project Coordinator: Emrah Çoraman
Project Documentation Officer: Yaman Özakın
Project Social Studies Officer: Yalın Emek Çelik
Project Financial Officer: Mehmet Emre Döker
Bat Research Group Coordinator: Emrah Çoraman
Invertebrate Research Group Coordinators: Kadir Boğaç Kunt & Emrah Özel
Photos by: Yaman Özakın, Mehmet Emre Döker, Yalın Emek Çelik, Emrah Çoraman, Kadir Boğaç
Kunt, Başak Akçakaya, Atilla Evrim Gücün, Sencer Çoltu, Havva Yıldırım Çoltu
vi
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
First of all, we would like to thank Dr. Michael Green for his technical and editorial support in
finalising this report and also Prof. Dr. Türker Altan, and Frank Feys for their technical contributions
and support.
We are grateful to Selim Erdoğan (Nature Conservation and Natural Parks Cave Research Unit),
Volkan Göç, Selim Cesur, Neşe Ersöz (Nature Conservation and Natural Parks), and Nihan Arpa
(Nature Conservation and Natural Parks) for their help during the implementation of this project.
We appreciate the technical assistance received from Dr. Christo Deltshev (Bulgaria Academia of
Science), Dr. Plamen Mitov (Sofia University, Bulgaria), Dr. Rostislav Bekchiev (Sofia University,
Bulgaria), Dr. Rumyana Kostova (Sofia University, Bulgaria), Dr. Çetin Ilgaz (Dokuz Eylül University,
İzmir) and Dr. Burçin Aşkın Gümüş (Gazi University, Ankara) in species identifications.
Finally, we would like to thank those local people who supported our study, especially Demir Bey
(Kızılağaç Village), Mehmet Bey (Sivriler Village), İsmail Akça (Avcılar Village), Ramazan Yılmaz
(Balkaya Village), Vacit Bey (Balkaya Village), Necati Çolak (Armağan Village) and Şerafettin Bey
(Çukurpınar Village).
1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Twenty-six caves in Yıldız Mountains were explored in terms of biospeleological, archaeological and
geomorphological aspects. Thirteen caves were mapped and in four of the caves, Tirfez, Kuru,
Pestilin, and Ceneviz, archaeological findings were documented. Yenesu, Kurudere (Domuzdere),
Ceneviz, and Kız are the most interesting caves in terms of the geomorphological formations.
More than fifty fauna species were recorded in biospeleological surveys. Invertebrates, with 40
identified species, is the most diverse faunal group. Three potential new species, two spiders and
one pseudo-scorpion, were also discovered. Nine cave-dwelling bat species, with a total number of
approximately 42,000, were recorded. Many of the caves in the region are used both as hibernation
and nursery roosts. Dupnisa Cave, which is partly open to the public in the summer, is one of most
important underground systems in the Yıldız Mountains and among the most important caves in the
Balkans for its large bat population. Çatalyol, Bağlar, Domuzdere, and Kıyıköy are some of the other
important caves in the Yıldız Mountains.
Treasure hunting, quarrying, and cave tourism are the most common threats to cave systems in the
Yıldız Mountains. According to an evaluation of conservation needs, nine caves, Bağlar, Ceneviz,
Domuzdere, Dupnisa*, Kız*, Kovantaşı*, Kuru*, Ocak, and Yenesu, merit High Conservation Priority
for urgent protection as Nature Reserves and eight caves, Bostanlıktarla*, Çatalyol*, Kale III,
Kıyıköy*, Mermer*, Pestilin, Tirfez*, and Uzuntarla are proposed for Natural Monument status under
the National Parks Law No. 2873. Those nine caves marked with an asterisk lie within the proposed
Yıldız Mountains Biosphere.
2
ÖZET
Yıldız Dağları’nda bulunan 26 mağara biyospeleolojik, arkeolojik ve jeomorfolojik unsurlar göz
önünde bulundurularak araştırılmıştır. Çalışmalar kapsamında 13 mağaranın haritası çizilmiş ve dört
mağarada (Tirfez, Kuru, Pestilin ve Ceneviz) arkeolojik bulgular tespit edilmiştir. Öte yandan
Yenesu, Kurudere (Domuzdere), Ceneviz ve Kız mağaralarının jeomorfolojik oluşumlar açısından
dikkat çekici olduğu belirlenmiştir.
Biyospeleolojik çalışmalarda 50’den fazla hayvan türünün mağaralarda yaşadığı tespit edilmiştir.
Omurgasızlar, tanımlanan 40 tür ile en fazla çeşitliliğin görüldüğü grup olmuştur. Ayrıca
çalışmalarda ikisi örümcek biri de yalancı akrep olmak üzere üç muhtemel yeni tür keşfedilmiştir.
Araştırılan mağaralarda toplam dokuz türden 42,000 yarasanın yaşadığı tespit edilmiştir. Bölgedeki
mağaraların çoğunun yarasalar tarafından hem kışlamak hem de yavrulamak için kullanıldığı
gözlemlenmiştir. Yaz aylarında turizme açık olan Dupnisa Mağarası’nın barındırdığı geniş yarasa
popülâsyonu nedeniyle Yıldız Dağları ve Balkanlar’ın en önemli mağara habitatlarından biri olduğu
belirlenmiştir. Bunun dışında Çatalyol, Bağlar, Domuzdere ve Kıyıköy mağaraları da Yıldız
Dağları’ndaki önemli yer altı ekosistemleri arasında yer almaktadır.
Definecilik, taş ocağı işletmeleri ve mağara turizmi, Yıldız Dağları’ndaki mağara sistemlerine yönelik
tehditlerin başında gelmektedir. Koruma gereksinimleri değerlendirmesi sonucunda bölgedeki dokuz
mağara; Bağlar, Ceneviz, Domuzdere, Dupnisa*, Kovantaşı*, Kuru*, Kız*, Ocak ve Yenesu, yüksek
koruma önceliği taşıyan ve acil önlem alınması gereken mağaralardır. Bu 9 mağaranın 2873 no’lu
Milli Parklar Yasası gereği Tabiatı Koruma Alanı, 8 mağaranın ise (Bostanlıktarla*, Çatalyol*, Kale III,
Kıyıköy*, Mermer*, Pestilin, Tirfez*, Uzuntarla) Tabiat Anıtı olarak tescillenmesi önerilmektedir.
Asterisk ile belirtilen 9 mağara, Yıldız Dağları Biyosferi içinde yer almaktadır.
3
1.
INTRODUCTION
(Emrah ÇORAMAN)
Yıldız Mountains is one of the major biogeographic zones in Turkey and, due to their karst
formations, many caves occur in the region. The combination of these two characteristics makes
Yıldız Mountains an interesting area in terms of biospeleology. However, there are few studies of
the cave fauna, and most are old and based on opportunistic sampling.
Underground habitats in Yıldız Mountains are under constant threat due to factors such as tourism,
quarrying, treasure hunting, and guano mining. For instance, Dupnisa Cave System, considered to be
among the most important hibernation roosts in Balkans, was opened to the public in 2001 without
any consideration of its conservation needs. Thus, the identification and legal protection of
important cave habitats in Yıldız Mountains according to their conservation needs is urgent.
In this study we surveyed 26 caves in Yıldız Mountains. Our aim was to assess the conservation
priorities and protection needs of these underground habitats based on three major criteria: (1)
biospeleological, (2) geomorphological, and (3) archaeological. Therefore, we collected data on bat
and invertebrate species, documented archaeological findings, and recorded significant
geomorphological features in the caves.
Additionally, during our visits to the villages, we informed local people about the Yıldız Mountains
Biosphere Project, caves and their fauna. We also prepared a brochure for distributing to villagers
and those attending the Dupnisa Cave festival.
Figure 1 In Yenesu Cave with local people (left); information desk at Dupnisa Cave Festival (right)
The results of this study, as documented in this report, provide the basis for our continuing
collaboration with General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks, Ministry of
Environment and Forestry, to apply appropriate levels of legal conservation status to underground
habitats in Yıldız Mountains.
1.1
GEOMORPHOLOGY OF YILDIZ MOUNTAINS
(Emrullah ÖZEL)
The area of study lies parallel to the Black Sea coastline in the north-east of Thrace and consists of
surface structures belonging to the Miocene, Pliocene and Pleistocene. These structures, which
form the higher altitude regions of Yıldız Mountains, decrease in altitude to the south and west. The
lower and higher parts can be considered geomorphologically as two different regions.
The mountain ridges lie along a NW-SE axis which separates the Aegean-Marmara and Black Sea
water basins. They consist mostly of Palaeozoic and Mesozoic erosion-resistant crystalline schist,
overlain by more recent Eocene formations. These plateaux were formed by the erosion at the end
4
of the Palaeotectonic Epoch. Later, 24 million years ago during the Neotectonic Epoch, the Istranca
Massif was subjected to faulting and uplifting, from the Mid-Miocene onwards. The collapse of the
Black Sea and Ergene basins in the east and south, respectively, resulted in a step-wise system from
old to new formations on the outskirts of the Massif.
In higher altitude regions, such as between 700 m and the top of Mahya Hill at 1033 m, the long and
thin ridges are results of erosion during the Miocene. These ridges lie in different directions and are
separated by deep faults and rivers. Upper Miocene erosion surfaces can be observed at 500-700 m,
which are eroded by rivers and cut by faults.
Geological events during the Pliocene also contributed to cave formation. The erosion surfaces
around and inside the Istıranca Massif are subsequent palaeo valleys, karstic poljes and uvalas, and
caves. These formations are located at 400-500 m in the north and 150-300 m in the south of Yıldız
Mountains. Surfaces eroded deeply by Quaternary rivers along the NW-SE axis can be seen
throughout the area. In the south, dense karst has developed where limestone exists. In this region
nested karstic formations can be observed covering multiple geological epochs. Many of the caves
developed beneath the erosion surfaces belong to the Pliocene
The main reason why rivers in the eastern part of the Yıldız Mountains lie in deep stream beds is
due to decreases in sea level, resulting in their rejuvenation and increased erosive effects. This has
accelerated erosion in Pliocene caves and lead to the formation of new caves. Dupnisa, one of the
two-layered caves, is a good example of such developments.
Caves were formed in the northern part where Jura-Kretase marbles are thickened, the main dense
karstification occurring in the Miocene limestone. Shallower parts have not lent themselves to the
formation of cave systems. However, impermeable layers just below the limestone elevate the karst
floor base, which leads to the formation of shallow and horizontal karst. Karstification that began in
the Pliocene and continued throughout the Quaternary Period has given the area its current
landform.
Caves formed at the bases and on the slopes of rivers buried in Pliocene erosion sediments, and in
uvalas and dolines, have active, semi-active, spring and sink characteristics. These caves that have
water throughout the year are generally horizontal since they lie at the interface between
limestone and impermeable layers. Semi-vertical and multi-layered caves are also formed where the
thickness of the limestone is greater. These caves drain the base water of the region quickly and
cause it to surface as springs.
1.2
ARCHAEOLOGY OF THE YILDIZ MOUNTAINS
(Gülgün GÜRCAN)
Thrace, the north-western part of Turkey, lying between the Balkans, Anatolia, the Aegean Sea and
the Black Sea, has always been a melting pot of different cultures. Archaeological excavations and
surveys not only inform the history and culture of Thrace but they also throw light on the
movements of civilizations between Europe and the Near East via Thrace.
As natural features in the landscape, caves provide opportunities for shelter and were often
favoured by early man. Thus, cave archaeology can improve our knowledge about past settlements,
especially in the prehistoric period. Although there are many surveyed prehistoric settlements in
Thrace (Menekşe Çatağı and Toptepe in Tekirdağ, Tilkiburnu, Taşlıcabayırı, Aşağıpınar, and
Kanlıgeçit in Kırklareli, Hocaçeşme in Edirne), Yarımburgaz is the only cave that has been subject to
an archaeological investigation. Yarımburgaz, located approximately 22 km north-west of the city of
İstanbul, is considered to be among the most important prehistoric caves in Turkey. None of the
caves in the Yıldız Mountains have been archeologically explored.
5
Given the importance of archaeological findings to date in Thrace, especially in Yarımburgaz Cave,
the Yıldız Mountains, with their many horizontal caves, provide a potential opportunity of further
important archaeological discoveries. In this study it is intended to document any archaeological
artefacts, as a preliminary step towards future detailed archaeological surveys.
1.3
BIOSPELEOLOGY
(Emrah ÇORAMAN)
According to speleological reports, more than 25 caves have been surveyed in the Yıldız Mountains
but biospeleological studies are few and most of these are simply species inventories. Largely
absent is information on population sizes and associated ecological measures that are crucial for
assessing conservation priorities of these highly threatened habitats. An important exception is
Furman and Özgül (2004), who identified conservation priorities for caves in Turkish Thrace based
on the size and diversity of bat populations.
Dupnisa Cave System is the most studied underground habitat in the region according to the
scientific literature (Dietz et al., 2006; Güher, 2000; Güher and Kirgiz, 2004; Özkan, 2006; Zima and
Cenevova, 2002; Lanhammer et al., 2007). Nevertheless, with the exception of Paksuz et al. (2007)
who monitor the bat colonies between 2002 and 2005, the studies are based on opportunistic
sampling of various taxa.
This study focuses on identifying the conservation needs of cave systems in Yıldız Mountains, based
on faunal inventories and estimates of the sizes of bat populations. The primary aim was to update
data published by Furman and Özgül (2004) and Paksuz et al. (2007) and, additionally, to survey
new caves. The invertebrate fauna of all caves was also inventoried to improve knowledge about
species diversity. This database will provide a reference for monitoring future changes in these bat
populations, as well as a basis for prospective cave invertebrate studies in the region.
1.3.1 Bat species
(Emrah ÇORAMAN)
Twenty three bat species have been recorded from Turkish Thrace (Benda and Horacek, 1998) and,
according to unpublished data, this total now stands at 25 species. Fourteen of these species are
cave-dwelling bats (Furman and Özgül, 2004; Benda and Horacek, 1998), including two vulnerable
and four near-threatened species (Table 1). All of these bat species and their habitats are strictly
protected or, in the case of Pipistrellus pipistrellus, protected under provisions of the Bern
Convention1 to which Turkey is a signatory. Some of the bat species are highly dependent on
underground habitats whereas others use trees for roosting. Therefore, conservation of caves is
particularly important for bat species that are dependent on underground habitats. Dependency on
underground habitats of bat species found in Turkish Thrace are listed in Table 1 (Schober &
Grimmberger, 1997).
Table 1
1
Conservation status of bat species in Turkish Thrace, based on the IUCN Red List (IUCN,
2009), and their dependence on underground habitats.
Scientific name
IUCN Red List
Dependence on
underground habitats
Rhinolophus blasii Peters, 1866
Least Concern
High
Rhinolophus euryale Blasius, 1853
Near
Threatened
High
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (Schreber,
1774)
Least Concern
High
Rhinolophus hipposideros (Bechstein, 1800)
Least Concern
High
Rhinolophus mehelyi Matschie, 1901
Vulnerable
High
The Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, 1979
6
Dependence on
underground habitats
Scientific name
IUCN Red List
Myotis bechsteinii (Kuhl, 1818)
Near
Threatened
Myotis alcathoe Helversen & Heller, 2001
-
Myotis blythii (Tomes, 1857)
Least Concern
High
Myotis capaccinii (Bonaparte, 1837)
Vulnerable
High
Myotis daubentonii (Kuhl,1819)
Least Concern
Medium
Myotis emarginatus (E. Geoffory, 1806)
Least Concern
High
Myotis myotis (Borkhausen, 1797)
Least Concern
High
Myotis mystacinus (Kuhl, 1819)
Least Concern
Medium
Myotis nattereri (Kuhl, 1819)
Least Concern
Medium
Pipistrellus kuhlii (Kuhl, 1819)
Least Concern
Low
Pipistrellus nathusii (Kayserling & Blasius,
1839)
Least Concern
Low
Pipistrellus pipistrellus (Scheber, 1774)
Least Concern
Low
Pipistrellus pygmaeus (Leach, 1825)
Least Concern
Low
Nyctalus leisleri (Kuhl, 1818)
Least Concern
Low
Nyctalus noctula (Schreber, 1774)
Least Concern
Low
Eptesicus serotinus (Schereber, 1774)
Least Concern
Low
Barbastella barbastellus (Schereber, 1774)
Near
Threatened
Plecotus auritus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Least Concern
Low
Plecotus austriacus (Fischer, 1829)
Least Concern
Low
Miniopterus schreibersii (Kuhl, 1819)
Near
Threatened
High
Medium
-
Medium
1.3.2 Invertebrate Cave Fauna
(KADİR BOĞAÇ KUNT & PINAR YILDIZ)
The speleological assets of Turkey, which hosts many caves and underground formations, have been
systematically studied by several geomorphologists, such as Nazik (1985) and Buldur (1991).
However, biospeleological studies of these assets are based almost solely on opportunistic
observations and samples. Cave invertebrates, in particular, require much more detailed and
systematic study because of their adaptations (senses, depigmentation, low population density,
etc.) to underground conditions, such as absolute darkness, crevices and fractures in the
environment and micro-climate.
Studies of cave invertebrates and their adaptation to underground life date back to the beginning of
the 19th century (Packard, 1888). The first study of cave invertebrate fauna in Turkey was
conducted by Macarlı Miralay Dr. Abdullah Bey in Yarımburgaz Cave in 1865. The findings were
published in France in 1867 (Erguvanlı, 1965).
Studies, especially by foreign researchers, gained pace in the 20th century but most represented ad
hoc, rather than systematic sampling, and depended on specimens being sent abroad for
identification (e.g.. Verhoeff, 1940, 1941, 1943; Jeannel, 1947a-b; Strouhal, 1953a-b, 1963, 1971;
Vandel, 1957; Lindberg, 1952a-b-c, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1957, 1958, 1960; Omodeo, 1955; Beauchamp,
1958; Roewer, 1960; Sbordoni and Vigna Taglianti, 1989; Vigna Taglianti and Zapparoli, 2000).
7
The Yıldız Mountains is considered by many researchers to be among the most interesting of
biogeographic regions in Europe due to its relict organisms (Georgiev, 1993). While the Bulgarian
side of this mountain range is quite well-studied with respect to its invertebrate cave fauna, there
has been little study of invertebrates on the Turkish side. According to Deltshev et al. (2003), 11 of
the 79 spider species (Araneae; Arachnida) recorded from Bulgarian caves are present in the
Bulgarian part of the Yıldız Mountains. Also, 33 of Bulgaria’s 61 opilionid species (Opiliones;
Arachnida) occur in the Bulgarian part of the Yıldız Mountains. A significant number of these species
are troglobites2 (Šilhavý, 1965; Staręga, 1976; Mitov, 1997; Deltshev et al., 2005).
2.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
(Emrah ÇORAMAN)
A total of 26 underground habitats in Yıldız Mountains were explored and surveyed. Cave surveys
were repeated, once in winter (March-April) and once in summer (May-July), in order to determine
any seasonal changes in the cave fauna, especially with respect to bats. Biospeleological surveys
were done by two groups working simultaneously. One of the groups checked bat populations and
estimated their sizes and the other group collected invertebrate samples for species identification.
Archaeological findings and geomorphological formations were also documented during field
surveys. Maps of each cave were prepared for conservation planning purposes, either by digitalizing
available maps from the literature or by undertaking original surveys in the case of caves not
previously mapped.
Caves were measured by a group of three people. The caves were divided into a series of sections
between the entrance and the end. The distance, azimuth, and slope of each section were
measured consecutively using a tape, compass and clinometers, respectively. Height and width of
the gallery of each section was recorded and a map of the cave was sketched. Survey data were
then digitised using cave-mapping software (Walls).
2.1
BAT POPULATIONS
(Emrah ÇORAMAN)
Identification of bat species was based on the Illustrated identification key to the bats of Europe
(Dietz and von Helversen, 2004). Population sizes were assessed by direct counts for small colonies
and by using density approximations from the literature for large colonies. Mist nets were used
occasionally in the summer surveys to determine bat diversity in the vicinity of caves. Myotis myotis
and M. blythi were difficult to distinguish in the field (Arlettaz et al., 1991) so their census data
were recorded and reported as M. myotis/blythii.
Figure 2
2
Nyctalus leisleri caught by mist net in Dupnisa (left), measuring forearm length of
bat (right)
A troglobite is an animal that lives entirely in the dark parts of caves.
8
2.2
CAVE INVERTEBRATES
(KADİR BOĞAÇ KUNT & PINAR YILDIZ)
Cave invertebrates were sampled between March and July 2009. Specimens of any observed
invertebrates were placed in tubes and preserved in 70% alcohol at the time of collection and
subsequently delivered to the laboratory for identification. Soil samples from the caves were
collected in fabric pouches, taken to the laboratory and placed in sifting devices fitted with Berlese
funnels. The Beslese funnel comprises a metal funnel standing on a tripod, with a light source fitted
on the top and a collecting container with 70% alcohol at the bottom. Soil invertebrates will move
away from the light source and fall into the funnel, then drop into the collecting bottle.
Figure 3 Spider samples (left); collecting water samples in Yenesu Cave (right)
Species identifications were based on Brignoli (1968, 1971, 1972, 1978a and 1978b), DeelemanReinhold and Deeleman (1988), Roewer (1959, 1962), Heimer and Nentwig (1991) for Araneae
(Arthropoda: Arachnida); Manhert (1979), El-Hennawy (1988), Harvey (1990), Henderickx and Vets
(2000), Sezek (2003) for Pseudoscorpionida (Arthropoda: Arachnida); and Strouhal (1953a, 1953b,
1963 ve 1971) for Isopoda (Crustaceae: Isopoda). Invertebrate experts determined that some of the
specimens sampled do not match with the published descriptions of known taxa. In such cases,
specimens were treated as potentially new species. An invertebrate working group is currently
preparing scientific papers to be sent to peer-reviewed journals to confirm their identity.
3.
FIELD SURVEY RESULTS
Twenty-seven caves were visited during the study but only twenty-six could be explored as the
entrance to Kocaçayırlar Cave had been closed by local people. This total includes a newly
discovered cave, Sergen Suçıkan, which has not yet been completely explored. Identified samples
collected from this cave are presented in Table 2, but the cave is not included in the conservation
priority evaluation section.
Thirteen previously unsurveyed caves were mapped. In four of the surveyed caves, Tirfez, Kuru,
Pestilin, and Ceneviz, we documented archaeological findings. Ceneviz Cave may prove to be a
particularly important archaeological site and warrants more detailed surveys. Yenesu, Kurudere
(Domuzdere), Ceneviz, and Kız caves have the most interesting geomorphological features. Yeneseu
and Ceneviz caves are connected to underground water systems, making them potentially more
vulnerable to hydrological changes.
9
Figure 4 Entrance to Sergen Suçıkan Cave (left); Triturus karelinii recorded in Yenesu Cave (right)
Approximately 30,000 bats were recorded in winter and more than 11,000 bats in the summer
during biospeleological surveys. A total of 11 bat species were recorded, of which two, Myotis
mystacinus and Nyctalus leisleri (Figure 4), were caught using mist nests across the stream corridor
in the vicinity of Dupnisa Cave. A salamander species, Triturus karelinii, (Figure 6) was recorded in
Yenesu Cave.
So far, 40 invertebrate species have been identified. Many specimens belonging to families such as
Acaridae, Chaoboridae, Muscidae, Mycetophilidae, Staphylinidae, Tipulidae, Yponomeutidae, and
Gryllidae are still in the process of being identified. This involves sending samples to specialists
experienced in identifying cave invertebrates which, because of their busy schedules, takes
additional time. Hence, the results are not available for inclusion in this report.
All of the species identified to date and their distribution are listed in Table 2. We also documented
a greater mouse eared bat with white nose syndrome in Çatalyol Cave (Figure 7). This is the first
known case in Turkey and, although there are no known adverse affects of this disease in Europe,
the Cavers Union was informed as a matter of precaution.
10
CAVES OF THE YILDIZ MOUNTAINS AND
THEIR FAUNA
BATS
Miniopterus schreibersii
Myotis capaccinii
Myotis emarginatus
Myotis myotis/blythii
Rhinolophus blasii
Rhinolophus euryale
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum
Rhinolophus hipposideros
Triturus karelinii
Araneus sturmi
Larinioides cornutus
Centromerus milleri
Centromerus bumadi sp. n.
Porrhomma convexum
Nesticus cellulanus
Meta menardi
Meta bourneti
Metellina merianae
Dasumia amoena
Harpactea babori
Harpactea coramani sp. n.
Harpactea deltshevi
Pholcus opilionoides
Pholcus phalangioides
Neobisium (O.) hazalae sp. n
Phalangium opilio
Opilio dinaricus
Mitostoma gracile
Nelima pontica
Paranemastoma sp.
Trachysphaera rotundata
Mesoiulus kosswigi
Anamastigona bilselii
Anamastigona halophila
Scolopendra sp.
Scutigera sp.
Scutigera coleoptrata
Laemostenus (P.) cimmerius
Bryaxis sp.
Paederus sp.
Trigonidium sp.
Ligidium hypnorum
Ligidium sp.
Haplophthalmus stygivagus
Trichonethes sp.
Oxychilus sp.
Euxina pontica
Laciniaria plicata
Lumbricus sp.
CAVES
INVERTEBRATES
TOTAL S SPECIES RECORDED
Distribution of bat, amphibian and invertebrate species recorded in the 26 surveyed caves.
AMPHIBIANS
Table 2
Dupnisa
1
1
0
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
6
Kuru
1
1
0
1
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
16
Kız
1
1
0
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
18
Kızlar
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
4
Çatalyol
1
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
Tripez
1
1
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
10
Mermer
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
Bezirgan
1
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
5
Ocak
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
9
Bağlar
1
0
0
1
1
1
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
9
Sergen Suçıkan
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
3
Kovantaşı
1
1
0
1
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
8
Kızılağaç
1
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
6
Bostanlıktarla
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
4
Domuzdere
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
8
Kıyıköy
1
1
1
0
1
1
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
15
Yenesu
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
8
Ceneviz
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
9
Uzuntarla
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
8
Ağıl
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
Pestilin
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
7
Kale 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
4
Kale 2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Kale 3
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Kozarka
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Yeşillik
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Total caves
recorded
10
6
1
7
7
11
15
16
1
2
2
2
1
3
6
10
3
2
1
1
3
1
2
2
1
3
2
2
1
4
1
1
1
1
2
1
2
3
1
2
3
2
3
1
3
8
1
2
4
Yıldız Mountains Biosphere Project Report Series No. 5
11
Figure 5 Greater mouse-eared bat with nose syndrome (left); specimen collection (right)
3.1
BAT POPULATIONS
A total of approximately 42,000 bats were recorded during the field survey. Nine species have been
documented in 22 caves. One Nyctalus leisleri was caught and two Myotis mystacinus with mist nets
that we did not encounter in the cave surveys. Miniopterus schreibersii is the most abundant
species, both in the winter and the summer. It has been recorded that 12 of the caves were used as
hibernation and 11 caves as nursery roosts. Dupnisa Cave has the biggest hibernation and Kuru Cave
has the biggest nursery colonies. Rhinolophus hipposideros, although known to have a relatively
small population size (a total of 148 records), has been recorded in 16 caves. Rhinolophus
ferrumequinum is another widely distributed species with 15 roost records.
Figure 6 Schreibers bats in Çatalyol Cave (left); Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (right)
During the winter population counts, approximately 30,000 hibernating bats in 21 caves were
recorded. Eight species were identified, three of them, Miniopterus schreibersii (Minsc), Myotis
myotis/blythii (Myola), and Myotis capaccinii (Myoca) had single large colonies, whereas
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (Rhife), Rhinolophus hipposideros (Rhihi), Rhinolophus euryale (Rhieu),
and Rhinolophus blasii (Rhibl) were distributed in many caves and only one individual of Myotis
emarginatus (Myoem) was recorded. Miniopterus schreibersii has the biggest colony during the
winter period with an estimated population size of 21,000 bats and approximately 20,000 of them
hibernate in the Dupnisa Cave. Greater horseshoe bat, Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, is the third
most common species and has been found in 14 of the surveyed caves. Rhinolophus hipposideros has
a small population size, (145 individuals) but has been recorded in 16 of the caves. The winter
population counts revealed that 15 of the 24 caves within the project area are used as a hibernation
roost. Dupnisa is the most important underground habitat for bats during the hibernation period;
three of the caves in the system are inhabited by more than 26,000 bats, representing seven
species. Population sizes species recorded in the winter period are given in Table 3.
12
Table 3
Bat species and their population estimates recorded in winter.
Cave
Bağlar
Minsc
Myola
Rhife
Rhieu
Rhibl
Rhihi
Myoca
Myoem
Total
Species
Recorded
5
2
20
600
200
0
0
0
827
5
20
0
6
25
0
3
0
0
54
3
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Çatalyol
1260
2
50
0
0
0
0
0
1312
3
Ceneviz
0
0
200
0
0
5
0
0
205
2
Domuzdere
0
0
167
0
0
2
0
0
169
2
20000
3000
1600
0
0
3
1000
0
25603
5
Kale 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Kale 2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Kale 3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Kıyıköy
1
0
7
93
0
3
0
1
105
5
Kız
0
0
0
0
800
0
1
0
801
2
Kızılağaç
0
0
3
1
0
1
0
0
5
3
Kızlar
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
3
1
Kocaçayırlar
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
NV*
-
21
3
76
0
0
3
6
0
109
5
Kozarka
0
0
0
0
0
21
0
0
21
1
Kuru
0
2
22
9
0
84
1
0
118
5
Kurudere
0
1
6
0
0
0
0
0
7
2
Mermer
0
0
0
350
1
1
0
0
352
3
Ocak
0
0
7
0
0
1
0
0
8
2
Pestil
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
2
1
Tirfez
10
0
16
0
0
6
15
0
47
4
Uzuntarla
0
0
0
0
300
1
0
0
301
2
Yenesu
0
0
0
300
0
6
0
0
306
2
Yeşillik
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
NV*
-
TOTAL
21297
3010
2181
1378
1301
145
1023
1
30356
6
6
14
7
4
16
5
1
Bezirgan
Bostanlıktarla
Dupnisa
Kovantaşı
Sites Recorded
NV: Not visited.
13
Figure 7 A nursery colony of Rhinolophus euryale (left); Schreiber’s bat (right)
During the summer surveys, approximately 12,000 bats were recorded. The difference between the
summer and the winter populations are mainly due to the decrease in the number of Miniopterus
schreibersii bats. The Schreiber bats could be migrating to other caves that are not in Yıldız
Mountains or there may be unexplored habitats. The most common bats were Miniopterus
schreibersii, Rhinolophus blasii, and Rhinolophus euryale, which were recorded in nine, eight, and
seven caves, respectively. During the summer surveys, nursery colonies of Miniopterus schreibersii,
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, Rhinolophus euryale, Rhinolophus blasii, Myotis myotis/blythii, and
Myotis capaccinii were observed. It has to be noted that many of the medium Rhinolophus colonies
are sympatric and, therefore, their population size estimates are calculated from the ratio of the
sampled individuals. Therefore, estimates for Rhinolophus blasii and Rhinolophus euryale have to
be treated cautiously. According to the summer surveys, Kuru and Kız Caves in Dupnisa Cave System
and Bağlar Cave in Sergen Village are the most important nursery colonies in Yıldız Mountains.
Figure 8 Miniopterus schreibersii colony hibernating in Dupnisa (left); Rhinolophus ferrumequinum
bats hibernating (right)
Table 4
Bat species and their population estimates recorded in summer.
Cave
Bağlar
Minsc
Myola
Rhife
Rhieu
Rhibl
Rhihi
Myoca
Myoem
Total
Species
Recorded
50
0
50
1000
500
0
0
0
1600
4
Bezirgan
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Bostanlıktarla
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
NV*
-
Çatalyol
50
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
50
1
Ceneviz
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
NV*
-
Domuzdere
0
0
0
400
400
0
0
0
800
2
14
Cave
Dupnisa
Minsc
Myola
Rhife
Rhieu
Rhibl
Rhihi
Myoca
Myoem
Total
Species
Recorded
30
0
0
0
0
0
30
0
60
2
Kale 1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Kale 2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Kale 3
0
0
0
120
0
0
0
0
120
1
250
0
0
300
300
0
100
0
950
4
1500
1
1
200
200
0
200
0
2102
6
Kızılağaç
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
1
Kızlar
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
1
Kocaçayırlar
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
CC*
-
300
1
20
200
200
0
0
0
721
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
3000
500
100
1000
0
1
300
0
4901
6
Kurudere
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
Mermer
0
0
0
0
50
0
0
0
50
1
Ocak
0
0
0
0
50
0
0
0
50
1
Pestil
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
NV*
-
Tirfez
50
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
50
1
Uzuntarla
0
0
0
0
400
0
0
0
400
1
Yenesu
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
4
Yeşillik
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
TOTAL
5233
502
172
3220
2100
3
630
0
11860
9
3
5
7
8
3
4
0
Kıyıköy
Kız
Kovantaşı
Kozarka
Kuru
Sites Recorded
NV: Not visited, CC: Entrance of the cave is closed.
3.2
INVERTEBRATES
As a result of surveys of 25 caves, 22 species have been identified in Class Arachnida; four species in
Diplopoda; two species in Chilopoda; four species in Insecta, four species in Crustaceae, three
species in Gastropoda, and one species in Clitellata were identified up to date. Survey results
indicate that, in general, endemic species particular to Turkey and the Balkans are in the majority.
Arachnida is the dominant class, with 15 araneid, one pseudoscorpionid and five opilionid species.
Among the araneid species identified, Centromerus bumadi sp. n., Harpactea coramani sp. n. are
new species to science, while Centromerus milleri, Porrhomma convexum, Dasumia amoena and
Harpactea deltshevi are new records for the Turkish fauna. Among the pseudoscorpionid species
Neobisium (O.) hazalae sp. n is a new record for science. Among opilionid species, Nelima pontica,
Opilio dinaricus and Mitostoma gracile are new additions to the Turkish fauna.
Meta menardi and Nesticus cellulanus are the araneid species encountered most frequently in the
caves surveyed, which is consistent with the relevant literature (Heimer and Nentwig, 1991). Both
are troglophilic species that are common in European caves. Other araneid species recorded are
also common members of the humid forest base and cave habitats in Europe and the Balkans.
Among these, species belonging to genus Centromerus are troglobiont spiders that are totally
adapted to cave habitats. Laemostenus (P.) cimmerius, one of the species identified, is also a
troglobiont species that is otherwise endemic to the Balkans.
15
Figure 9 Metellina merianae (left); Nesticus cellulanus (top right); Araneus sturmi (bottom right)
16
Figure 10
Harpactea babori, Centromerus milleri, Meta bourneti (left from top to bottom);
Porrhomma convexum, Meta menardi, Larinioides cornutus (right from top to bottom)
Class Arachnida
Table 5
List of identified species in the Order Araneae (Spiders)
Family
Species
Note
Araneidae
Araneus sturmi
Araneidae
Larinioides cornutus
Linyphiidae
Centromerus milleri
New record for Turkish fauna
Linyphiidae
Centromerus bumadi sp. n.
New species to science
Linyphiidae
Porrhomma convexum
Nesticidae
Nesticus cellulanus
New record for Turkish Thrace
Tetragnathidae
Meta bourneti
Tetragnathidae
Meta menardi
Tetragnathidae
Metellina merianae
Dysderidae
Dasumia amoena
Dysderidae
Harpactea babori
Dysderidae
Harpactea coramani sp. n
New species to science
Dysderidae
Harpactea deltshevi
Pholcidae
Pholcus opilionoides
Pholcidae
Pholcus phalangioides
New record for Turkish Thrace
17
Figure 11
Table 6
Paranemastoma sp. (top left); Phalangium opilio (top right); Mitostoma gracile
(bottom left); Nelima pontica (bottom right)
List of identified species in the Orders Pseudoscorpionidea (Pseudo-scorpions) and
Opiliones (Harvestmen)
Family
Species
Note
Order Pseudoscorpionidea
Neobisiidae
Neobisium (Ommatoblothrus) hazalae sp. n.
New to science
Gagrellidae
Nelima pontica
Phalangiidae
Phalangium opilio
Phalangiidae
Opilio dinaricus
Nemastomatidae
Mitostoma gracile
Nemastomatidae
Paranemastoma radewi
Nemastomatidae
Paranemastoma aurigerum
Order Opiliones
Class Diplopoda (Millipedes)
Table 7
List of identified species in the Orders Glomerida, Julida and Chordeumatida
Order
Family
Species
Glomerida
Trachysphaera
Trachysphaera rotundata
Julida
Julidae
Mesoiulus kosswigi
Chordeumatida
Anthroleucosomatidae
Anamastigona bilselii
Chordeumatida
Anthroleucosomatidae
Anamastigona halophila
18
Figure 12
Anamastigona halophila (left); Mesoiulus kosswigi (right)
Class Chilopoda
Figure 13
Scutigera coleoptrata
Class Insecta (Insects)
Table 8
List of identified species in the Order Coleoptera (Beetles)
Family
Species
Carabidae
Laemostenus (Pristonichus) cimmerius (Fisher-Waldheim, 1823)
Staphylinidae
Bryaxis sp.
Staphylinidae
Paederus sp.
Figure 14
Paederus sp. (left); Laemostenus (P.) cimmerius (right)
19
Class Crustacea
Figure 15
Table 9
Haplophthalmus stygivagus (top left); Trichoptera sp. (bottom left); Ligidium
hypnorum (top right); Ligidium sp. (middle right); Trichoptera pupa (bottom right)
List of identified species in the Order Isopoda
Family
Species
Ligiidae
Ligidium hypnorum (Cuvier, 1792)
Ligiidae
Ligidium sp.
Trichoniscidae
Haplophthalmus stygivagus Verhoeff, 1936
Trichoniscidae
Trichonethes sp.
Class Gastropoda
Table 10
Species identified by ASSIST. PROF. BURÇİN AŞKIM GÜMÜŞ
List of identified species in the Class Gastropoda
Family
Oxychilidae
Clausiliidae
Clausiliidae
Species
Oxychilus sp.
Euxina pontica (Retowskı, 1887)
Laciniaria plicata (Draparnaud, 1801)
20
Figure 16
Oxychilus sp. (left); Laciniaria plicata (right)
Class Clitellata, Chilopoda, and Insecta (Species identified by EMRAH ÖZEL)
Table 11
List of identified species in the Classes Clitellata, Chilopoda and Insecta
Class
Family
Species
Clitellata
Lumbricidae
Lumbricus sp.
Chilopoda
Scolopendridae
Scolopendra sp.
Chilopoda
Scutigeridae
Scutigera sp.
Insecta
Gryllidae
Trigonidium sp.
21
Figure 17
Figure 18
Trigonidium sp. (left); Lumbricus sp. (top right); Scolopendra sp. (bottom right)
Acaridae (top left); Yponomeutidae (bottom left); Ixodida (top right); Lepidoptera
(bottom right)
22
Figure 19
Muscidae (top left); Mycetophilidae pupa (bottom left); Diplopoda (top right);
Mycetophilidae (bottom right)
23
4.
CAVE CONSERVATION PRIORITY EVALUATIONS
(EMRAH ÇORAMAN, MEHMET DÖKER, & AYDIN MENDERES)
Conservation priorities were identified based on the presence of bats species and their colony types
(nursery, hibernation), invertebrate diversity, archaeological findings and geomorphological
formations. Potential threats to cave environments were also taken into consideration. High
Conservation Priority was assigned to endangered underground habitats in urgent need of
protection, for which Nature Reserve status is recommended. Caves that are not considered to be
threatened are recommended for Natural Monument status.
Figure 20 Location of 26 surveyed caves within and peripheral to the proposed Yıldız Mountains
Biosphere (Project area). Sergen Suçıkan is a newly discovered cave that was not surveyed.
24
4.1
BAĞLAR CAVE
HIGH CONSERVATION PRIORITY
Village: Sergen; District: Vize; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 21
Entrance to Bağlar Cave (left); marble quarry at the entrance to Bağlar Cave (right)
Geomorphology
Bağlar Cave is situated at 3.5 km north-west of Sergen Village, on the west side of Kanlı Stream near
to the stone quarries, and 50m south of Ocak Cave. Bağlar Cave has been formed in thin limestone,
remaining inside the southern Paleozoic granites and metamorphic rocks of Strandja Massif.
Therefore, there are very few flowstone formations inside the cave. The cave is 318 m long with
many wide passages of 1-4 m width and 1-6 m high forming three levels.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Bağlar Cave.
Biospeleology
Bağlar Cave is one of the most important underground habitats in the region. The cave is inhabited
by medium size horseshoe bats, Rhinolophus euryale and Rhinolophus blasii, throughout the year.
These species use the cave both as a hibernation roost and a nursery. During the summer surveys
approximately 1,600 bats were recorded, representing 4 species. There are a total of nine
documented species and four of them are invertebrate species including the first record of Meta
menardi in Turkish Thrace. There are also unidentified Acaridae, Diplopoda, Lepidoptera, Isopoda,
Collembola and Gastropoda samples.
Figure 22
Rhinolophus colony (left); Oxychillus sp. in Bağlar Cave (right)
Threats and Recommendations
25
A marble quarry which is located very close to Bağlar Cave is the biggest threat to this cave. There
is also damage caused by treasure hunters. Considering the high biodiversity and especially the
Rhinolophus colonies in Bağlar Cave, the cave deserves a high conservation priority.
Figure 23
4.2
Map of Bağlar Cave
BEZIRGAN CAVE
Village: Sivriler; District: Demirköy; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 24
Entrance to Bezirgan Cave (left); narrow passage in Bezirgan Cave (right)
Geomorphology
Bezirgan Cave is a fossil cave located in the stream valley north of Sivriler Village in Demirköy. The
cave is formed inside the limestone layers in Mesozoic metamorphic and intrusive rocks of Strandja
Massif. The first 10m from the entrance is covered with depression rocks and other parts of the
main chamber are covered with mud. There are no flowstone formations inside the cave. The total
length of the cave is 75 m and its depth is 25 m.
26
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Bezirgan Cave.
Figure 25
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (left); Rhinolophus euryale colony (right)
Biospeleology
Bezirgan Cave is inhabited by a small colony of Rhinolophus euryale, Rhinolophus hipposideros, and
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (total of 34 bats) during the winter period. Approximately 20 individual
Miniopterus schreibersii were recorded in a crack at the entrance of the cave. They were most
likely using the cave as a transition roost during their migration.
There are no major threats to the cave.
Figure 26
Map of Bezirgan Cave
27
4.3
BOSTANLIKTARLA CAVE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Village: Kışlacık; District: Vize; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 27
Entrance to Bostanlıktarla Cave
Geomorphology
Bostanlıktarla Cave is in the middle of a big field north of Kışlacık Village in Vize. The cave is one of
the small caves formed in the contact line of Mesozoic metamorphic intrusive rocks and Middle Upper Eocene carbonates on the south edge of Strandja Massif. It is approximately 98 m long
stretching in a southeastern direction and the walls are not wider than 2 m. There is a small stream
flowing inside the cave and there are many stalagmites, stalactites, and flowstone curtains.
Archaeology
Pottery pieces have been documented in Bostanlıktarla Cave (Figure 29).
Biospeleology
Only a single individual Rhinolophus ferrumequinum has been documented hibernating in
Bostanlıktarla Cave. However, three invertebrate species have been recorded including the new
species, Centromerus bumadi sp. n. Besides this, there are also unidentified Opiliones, Ixodida,
Acaridae, Diplopoda, Isopoda, Collembola, and Gastropoda samples.
Figure 28
A pottery piece on flowstone formations (left); a tick (Ixodida) (right)
The cave is located in the middle of an arable field and, according to previous observations, local
people frequently wander close to the entrance of the cave, which is situated in agricultural land.
There are artefacts documented from the cave. It would be appropriate to protect Bostanlıktarla
Cave as a Natural Monument and villagers should be informed about its conservation importance.
28
Figure 29
4.4
Map of Bostanlıktarla Cave
ÇATALYOL SINKHOLE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Village: Avcılar; District: Demirköy; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 30
Entrance to Çatalyol Cave (left); abseiling in Çatalyol Sinkhole (middle); shallow
passage in Çatalyol (right)
Geomorphology
Çatalyol Sinkhole is near to the Bulgarian Border. The sinkhole is collecting water from a small
stream basin in the forest and has formed Mesozoic marble formations inside the north-western
edge of the Paleozoic granites and metamorphic rocks of Strandja Massif. After a large vertical
breach in the marble stone at the entrance to the cave, water has worn away the steps of the cave
29
creating a vertical drop of approximately 60 m. When the water reaches the bottom of the marble
formation it flows roughly 200 m to the south in a 2-5 m wide horizontal crack. The cave has a total
length of 326 m and ends with a siphon.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Çatalyol Cave.
Biospeleology
The most significant findings in Çatalyol Sinkhole are the hibernating Schreiber bats (approximately
1,200) in the deepest gallery, and the spider species, Porrhomma convexum, recorded for the first
time in Turkey. Also documented was a Myotis myotis/blythii individual with white nose syndrome.
Figure 31
Part of Miniopterus schrebersii colony in Çatayol (left); a tick (right)
The cave is located in the military zone near to the Bulgarian border. There are no major threats to
the cave. However, due to the hibernating bats, the cave should be designated a Natural
Monument.
Figure 32
Map of Çatalyol Sinkhole
30
4.5
CENEVIZ CAVE
Village: Bahçeköy; District: Saray; Province: Tekirdağ
Figure 33
Entrance to Ceneviz Cave (left); stalactites in Ceneviz Cave (right)
Geomorphology
Ceneviz Cave is located in the north-western part of Bahçeköy Village called the Saklısu Region in
Tekirdağ. The Cave is formed in Middle - Upper Eocene carbonates of Strandja Massif and has three
entrances. The water of the Saklısu Uvala is sinking right in front of the lower entrance and forming
an underground stream. This stream has formed a number of small lakes (1.5 m deep) and flows
over sand and gravel, sinking and disappearing inside a sinkhole 16 m beyond the upper fossil
entrance. The water leaves the cave at the end of the active passage after a big lake. Over the
active passage there is a second layer of fossil passage covered with lots of flowstone formations
and underneath is gravel and sand masses. The second layer combines together with the lower layer
in several parts of the cave. The intersection between the two layers is between 10 m and 16 m.
Archaeology
There are many archaeological findings in the Ceneviz Cave. In particular, many pottery pieces can
be found in the dome shaped upper gallery. There are also many holes that were dug by treasure
hunters and artefacts can easily be spotted at even deeper levels. This shows that the cave was
inhabited by humans for a long period.
Biospeleology
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum and Rhinolophus hipposideros are the only bat species that were
documented during the winter survey. Also identified were 12 invertebrates belonging to various
families. However, given such factors as the size of the cave, the underground stream, and
different floors, this cave should be surveyed in more detail.
Figure 34
Invertebrates from Ceneviz Cave.
31
Treasure hunters and possible future tourism activity are the biggest threats to Ceneviz Cave.
Therefore, Ceneviz Cave has a high conservation priority for designation as a Nature Reserve.
Figure 35
4.6
Map of Ceneviz Cave
DUPNISA CAVE SYSTEM
Village: Sarpdere; District: Demirköy; Province: Kırklareli
Dupnisa Cave System is 6 km south-west of Sarpdere Village in Demirköy, near the Bulgarian Border.
It is aligned NW-SE along a fault zone in the marble and crystallized limestone layers of the erosion
surfaces on the late Miocene and Pliocene quaternary relief system. Dupnisa Underground System
has a total length of 3150 m, consisting of two layers and three interconnected caves, Dupnisa (Sulu
Kol), Kuru, and Kız. In 2001, Edirne Directorate for the Conservation of Cultural and Natural Assets
issued Act 6962. According to this Act, the conservation status of Dupnisa Cave system was downgraded from a 1st to a 2nd Degree Natural Site, thereby allowing tourism-related constructions. It
had been a 1st Degree Natural Site from from 1992, having a total area of 1.68 ha. Following the
change in its conservation status, a part of Dupnisa (Sulu Kol) and Kuru Cave was opened to public.
32
4.7
DUPNISA CAVE (SULU KOL)
Figure 36
Entrance to Dupnisa Cave before and after it was opened to the public
Geomorphology
Dupnisa Cave is the lower part of the system. It is active with a continuous water flow. The first
part of the Cave runs along a NW-SE direction until a big depression gallery. This first part has a
ceiling height of 30-40 m and the underground stream forms lakes up to 2 m deep. The floor of the
first part is covered with rounded gravel and sediments. This part of the cave has widespread
variations of flowstone formation, such as curtains, stalagmites and stalactites.
The second part, after the large gallery, runs NE-SW and is semi-active in character, receiving water
from Kızılcık Stream. An underground stream flows through the passage continuously during the wet
seasons but it is completely dry in the arid season. The immense gallery receives water from all the
underground streams. The gallery is 125 m in length, 80 m wide and has a ceiling height of 30 m.
This chamber is covered with depression rocks fallen from the ceiling. On a small part of the upper
side there are lots of flowstone formations.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found from the cave floor of Dupnisa Cave.
Biospeleology
A total of 10 faunal species, five bats and five invertebrates, have been recorded. During the winter
period more than 25,000 bats use Dupnisa Cave as a hibernation roost. In this period, Schreiber
bats, Miniopterus schreibersii, have the biggest colony size with approximately 20,000 individuals.
Dupnisa also has the biggest winter population of greater horseshoe bats, Rhinolophus
ferrumequinum, in Yıldız Mountains.
Figure 37
Surveys in Dupnisa (left); Miniopterus schreibersii colony (right)
33
A small part beyond the entrance to Dupnisa Cave was opened to the public but this now remains
between 15 December and 15 May in the interests of bats hibernating in the cave, following
recommendations from Institute of Environmental Sciences at Boğaziçi University, This has helped
to reduce the impacts of tourism but bat activity should be monitored regularly because the longterm effects of visitor activities remains unknown. Another important issue is the recent
construction of a building near the exit of the cave, which may adversely affect the habitat for
bats.
4.8
KURU VE CAVE (DUPNISA SYSTEM)
Figure 38
Entrance to Kuru Cave (left); algae formation on the columns (right)
Geomorphology
Kuru Cave has two entrances. The first entrance lies at 100 m south-east of the Dupnisa Cave
entrance, formed as a 5 m vertical pit. The second entrance is 225 m south-east of the first one.
This cave is completely fossil and covered by all forms of flowstone formations. After the big
flowstone gallery, Kuru Cave is connected to Dupnisa through a narrow passage and a 29 m deep
vertical shaft.
Archaeology
Some pottery pieces have been recorded on the surface layer in Kuru Cave. Considering the fossil
character (no water activity) of the cave, it might have been a suitable environment for historical
settlements. Detailed archaeological exploration is needed.
Biospeleology
Kuru Cave is highly important due to the nursery bat colonies during the summer period. Five
species, Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, Rhinolophus euryale, Myotis myotis/blythii, Myotis
capaccinii, and Miniopterus schreibersii, were recorded with their young totalling approximately
5,000 individuals.
34
Figure 39
Meta menardi (left); pottery pieces in Kuru Cave (right)
The adverse impact of the tourism activity in Kuru Cave is highly visible. Nursery colonies that were
present in the main entrance gallery are no longer evident and the colonies were observed moving
to the other exit of the cave. Algae formation was also noted in Kuru Cave due to the light sources
that are used for touristism activities. This affects the cave temperature and disturbs the ecosystem
in the cave. For a better understanding of the affect of tourism activity on these bat colonies, a
long term monitoring program has to be planned. In addition, the light sources must be changed
immediately to ones with low heat emissions.
4.9
KIZ CAVE (DUPNISA SYSTEM)
Geomorphology
Kız Cave is approximately 400 m south of Kuru Cave. The entrance gallery of Kız Cave is covered
with stones and divided into two passages, one to the north-east and the second to the south-west.
Both passages have many flowstone formations. The end of the north-eastern passage is connected
to Dupnisa Cave by a 20 m shaft.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Kız Cave.
Figure 40
Entrance to Kız Cave (left); Rhinolophus blasii in Kız Cave (right)
Biospeleology
Six bat species, totalling approximately 2,000 individuals, have been recorded during a summer
survey. Four species, Miniopterus schreibersii, Rhinolophus blasii, Rhinolophus euryale and Myotis
capaccinii, have nursery colonies. Furthermore, Kız Cave is inhabited by approximately 800
Rhinolophus blasii during the winter period. In addition to bats, 12 invertebrate species have been
identified, including the first records of Nelima pontica, Mitostoma gracile and Centromerus milleri
in Turkey.
Future tourism plans in Kız Cave are the biggest threat to this underground habitat. Considering the
species diversity of both bats and invertebrates, this cave should be protected immediately.
35
Figure 41
A guano pile in Kız Cave (left); identifying bat species (right)
36
Figure 42
Map of Dupnisa Cave System
37
4.10 KALE I CAVE
Village: Çukurpınar; District: Merkez; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 43
Entrance to Kale I Cave (left); taking samples (right)
Geomorphology
Kale I Cave is located in rocky terrain near the forest north-east of Çukurpınar Village. Kale I Cave
has formed in the contact zone of Paleozoic granites and Mesozoic marbles along the north-eastern
edge of Strandja Massif. The cave has a very narrow entrance and after the entrance there is a
small chamber covered by depression rocks. There are no flowstone formations in the cave.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been observed on the cave floor of Kale I Cave.
Biospeleology
No bats were encountered in Kale I Cave in either of the surveys. The most important finding in this
cave is the newly described spider species, Harpactea coramani sp. n.
38
Figure 44
4.11
KALE
Map of Kale I Cave
II CAVE
Geomorphology
Kale II Cave is very close to the Kale I Cave and has a very narrow entrance. After the entrance, the
cave divides into two shafts. The main shaft has some flowstone formations but is mostly covered by
depression rocks. The other shaft is filled with suspended rocks and there is a high risk of falling
stone. The shaft ends with a very narrow crack covered by flowstone formations.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Kale II Cave.
Biospeleology
No bats were encountered in Kale II Cave in either of the surveys.
Figure 45
Entrance to Kale II Cave.
39
Figure 46
Map of Kale II Cave
4.12 KALE III CAVE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Figure 47
Entrance to Kale III Cave
Geomorphology
40
Kale III Cave is a traverse cave located nearby Kale I Cave. Both of the entrances are covered with
plants and the cave is a maximum of 2 m in height.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics were found on the cave floor of Kale III Cave.
Biospeleology
A nursery bat colony of approximately 120 Rhinolophus euryale was recorded.
No major threats are identified but, due to the nursery colony of Rhinolophus euryale, Kale III Cave
should be protected as a Natural Monument.
Figure 48
Map of Kale III Cave
4.13 KIYIKÖY CAVE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Geomorphology
Kıyıköy Cave is located 2 km south of Kıyıköy in Vize, on the south wall of the Big Kurudere Stream
Valley. Kıyıköy Cave is formed in the middle - upper Eocene carbonates of Strandja Massif. The cave
is horizontal and has a total length of 365 m in a south-western direction. There is a small stream
inside the cave with a distance between the walls of no more than 2 m wide.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Kıyıköy Cave.
41
Figure 49
Entrance to Kıyıköy Cave (left); Trigonidium sp. (right)
Biospeleology
During the summer surveys nursery colonies of Miniopterus schreibersii, Rhinolophus blasii, and
Rhinolophus euryale were recorded in Kıyıköy Cave. The only Myotis emarginatus record in the
study was from this cave. Seven invertebrate species were noted, including the first records of the
spider, Porrhomma convexum, and a harvestman, Mitostoma gracile.
Figure 50
A Rhinolophus euryale with her young in Kıyıköy Cave
There are no major threats to Kıyıköy Cave and it lies within Kıyıköy 1st Degree Natural Site.
Although activities are limited to scientific research, under the Protection of Cultural and Natural
Values Law 2863, the site is not immune from the development of infrastructural services or public
recreational facilities. Thus, it should also be designated a Natural Monument to ensure protection
of its nursery bat colonies.
42
Figure 51
Map of Kıyıköy Cave
4.14 KIZILAĞAÇ CAVE
Village: Kızılağaç; District: Vize; Province: Kırklareli
Geomorphology
Kızılağaç Cave is about 4 km north-east of Kızılağaç Village on the side of a forest road. The cave is
formed inside the limestone layers in Mesozoic metamorphic and intrusive rocks of Strandja Massif
and is semi-active. There are small lakes (0.5-1 m deep) at the end of the main gallery with a very
good flowstone deposits. Curtain formations, stalactites and stalagmites are still developing.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Kızılağaç Cave.
Figure 52
Speleoterms in Kızılağaç Cave
Biospeleology
Although there are no large bat colonies in Kızılağaç Cave, four species were encountered in the
surveys and the invertebrate species diversity is high. Many samples were collected belonging to
Arachnida, Diplopoda, Chilopoda, Insecta, Entognatha and Gastropoda Classes.
43
Figure 53
Map of Kızılağaç Cave
4.15 KIZLAR CAVE
Village: Sarpdere; District: Demirköy; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 54
Entrance to Kızlar Cave (left); mapping the cave (right)
Geomorphology
The entrance of Kızlar Cave is in the forest, 1.5 km east of Sarpdere Village in Demirköy. Kızlar is a
small cave (with a total length of 123 m) formed by the collapse of the ceiling of an underground
opening. Some parts of the cave are connected to surface waters; therefore, in some small galleries
there are flowstone formations.
44
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Kızlar Cave.
Biospeleology
A few individuals of Rhinolophus hipposideros and four invertebrate species were recorded in Kızlar
Cave.
There are no major threats to Kızlar Cave.
Figure 55
Map of Kızlar Cave
45
4.16 KOVANTAŞI CAVE
Village: Kışlacık; District: Vize; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 56
Entrances to Kovantaşı Cave
Geomorphology
Kovantaşı Cave is located 3 km north-east of Kışlacık Village, near the road between Kışlacık Village
and Kızılağaç Village. The cave is formed inside the limestone layers in Mesozoic metamorphic and
intrusive rocks of Strandja Massif. Kovantaşı Cave is an active cave and during the rain periods of
the year Kovantaşı Stream flows from the upper entrance of the cave through to the lower
entrance. The cave is covered with block rocks, stones, gravel, and mud. The height of the ceiling
ranges between 2 m and 7 m; the total length of the cave is 270 m. The widest passage in the cave
is 10 m and the narrowest part of the cave is 3 m.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been observed on the cave floor of Kovantaşı Cave.
Biospeleology
Seven bat species were recorded in Kovantaşı Cave and three of them, Miniopterus schreibersii,
Rhinolophus blasii and Rhinolophus euryale, have nursery colonies. There is also an immensely large
colony of hibernating Rhinolophus ferrumequinum in Kovantaşı.
According to the mukhtar of Kışlacık, the cave will be readily opened to tourism. However,
Kovantaşı Cave merits high conservation priority for protection due to its bat colonies.
46
Figure 57
Map of Kovantaşı Cave
4.17 KOZARKA CAVE
Geomorphology
Kozarka Cave is located near the road between Çukurpınar and Armağan Villages. The cave is
formed between the contact zone of Paleozoic granites and Mesozoic marbles in the north-eastern
edge of Strandja Massif. Different types of rocks, such as calcareous and gypsum, can be found in
this cave. The total length of the cave is 84 m.
Figure 58
Entrance to Kozarka Cave (left); a spider in Kozarka (right)
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Kozarka Cave.
47
Biospeleology
Twenty-one hibernating Rhinolophus hipposideros were observed in Kozarka Cave.
There are no major threats to Kozarka Cave.
Figure 59 Map of Kozarka Cave
4.18 KURUDERE (AĞIL) CAVE
Village: Hamidiye; District: Vize; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 60
Entrance to Kurudere (Ağıl) Cave (left); Rhinolophus blasii (right)
Geomorphology
48
Kurudere Cave is located south of the Hamidiye Village in Vize. The cave is on the upper left side of
Kurudere stream and is formed in the Middle - Upper Eocene carbonates of old limestone layers. It
is a small cave 70 m in length and 1-3 m in height.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics were found on the cave floor of Kurudere Cave.
Biospeleology
Only a few individual bats were recorded in the cave.
The cave is highly damaged by treasure hunters and its entrance is being used to keep sheep herds.
Figure 61
Map of Kurudere (Ağıl) Cave
4.19 KURUDERE (DOMUZDERE) CAVE
Village: Balkaya; District: Vize; Province: Kırklareli
Geomorphology
49
Domuzdere Cave is located 4 km south-west of Balkaya Village, on the left side of Ayvapınar
Stream. It lies in Middle - Upper Eocene old limestone layers of Strandja Massif. The cave is formed
inside a horizontal crack in the limestone that is approximately 2-10 m wide and 3-4 m high. It has a
total length of 621 m. The cave meanders through the limestone at two levels, comprising an upper
fossil layer and a lower semi-active level. Domuzdere Cave has a high variety of beautiful flowstone
formations within all of its galleries.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Domuzdere Cave.
Biospeleology
Domuzdere is inhabited by a mixed bat colony of Rhinolophus blasii and Rhinolophus euryale during
the summer period. Both species use this cave as a nursery roost. In addition, a colony of
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum (approximately 160 individuals) hibernates in a gallery located at the
end of the cave. Various invertebrate species were also recorded.
Domuzdere Cave is under the risk of tourism. Plans to open this cave to the public would endanger
the bat colonies already inhabiting in this underground habitat. Therefore, Domuzdere Cave merits
high conservation priority for establishing as a Nature Reserve.
50
Figure 62 Map of Kurudere (Domuzdere) Cave
51
4.20 MERMER CAVE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Village: Sivriler; District: Demirköy; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 63
Entrance to Mermer Cave (left); measuring bat’s forearm (right)
Geomorphology
Mermer Cave is a fossil cave near the Marble quarries north of Sivriler Village in Demirköy. The cave
is formed inside the Mesozoic marble layers in Mesozoic metamorphic and intrusive rocks of Strandja
Massif. Mermer Cave is 36 m deep and 96 m in length. The cave ends in a very narrow passage,
which most probably connects to the river basin. About 20 m from the entrance, there is a 15 m
deep pit with low levels of oxygen. Precaution must be taken before going down to this gallery.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been recorded on the cave floor of Mermer Cave.
Biospeleology
Rhinolophus euryale colony (approximately 350 individuals) hibernate at the bottom of Mermer
Cave. This is the most important biospeleological feature of the Cave. There is also a small nursery
colony of Rhinolophus blasii during the summer period.
There are no major threats to Mermer Cave. However, the cave deserves Natural Monument status
due to its colonies of the Rhinolophus bats.
Figure 64 Map of Mermer Cave
52
4.21 OCAK CAVE
Figure 65
Entrance to Ocak Cave (left); Meta menardi (right)
Geomorphology
Ocak Cave is located 3 km north-west of Sergen Village on the west side of Kanli Stream near the
stone quarries. According to information gathered from the villagers, half of the cave was destroyed
during the stone quarry activities. Ocak Cave is formed in thin limestone rocks inside the southern
Paleozoic granites and metamorphic rocks of Strandja Massif. The cave is shaped with a small
vertical crack in the limestone, 6-8 m high and 2-4 m wide.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Ocak Cave.
Biospeleology
Despite the fact that Ocak is a small cave many invertebrate species were found and a nursery
colony of Rhinolophus blasii. Ocak Cave is very close to the Bağlar, so it is possible that the colonies
in these caves inhabit both of them temporarily
The threat to the Ocak Cave is similar to that for Bağlar and, given that parts of the cave have
already been destroyed by the quarry, Ocak Cave merits a high conservation priority.
Figure 66
Map of Ocak Cave
53
4.22 PESTILIN CAVE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Village: Evrenli; District: Vize; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 67
Entrance to Pestilin Cave (left); Harpactea babori (right)
Geomorphology
Pestilin Cave is situated between Evrenli and Balkaya Villages in Vize. Although the cave borders
Evrenli Village, the path from Balkaya Village is much shorter. Pestilin Cave is formed in Middle Upper Eocene carbonates of Strandja Massif. The fossil cave is 105 m long, aligned along a northwestern direction. There are no noteworthy flowstone formations inside the cave.
Archaeology
Archaeological artefacts were found in Pestilin Cave.
Figure 68
Archaeological artefacts in Pestilin Cave
Biospeleology
No bat colonies were discovered in Pestilin Cave, except two hibernating Rhinolophus hipposideros
individuals. However, six invertebrate species were found, five of which are in Class Arachnida,
including Harpactea babori, Phalangium opilio, and Mesoiulus kosswigi
Pestilin has been damaged by treasure hunters and, considering the archaeological findings, the
cave should be designated as a Natural Monument.
54
Figure 69
Map of Pestilin Cave
4.23 TIRFEZ CAVE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Figure 70
Entrance to Tirfez Cave (left); Rhinolophus hipposideros (right)
Geomorphology
55
Tirfez Cave is near the Bulgarian border to the north of Avcılar Village in İğneada. The two
entrances to the cave are extremely difficult to find inside the limestone formations in the forest.
Tirfez is a small horizontal cave having a total length of 138 m. It is formed from Mesozoic marble
remaining inside the north-western edge of the Paleozoic granites and metamorphic rocks of
Strandja Massif. The ceiling is usually not more than 2 m high and the cave ends with a very narrow
passage that is covered with mud and guano.
Archaeology
Archaeological findings were documented in the cave (Figure 71).
Biospeleology
A total of 10 faunal species were found in the cave, five of which are bats. There is a small nursery
colony of some 50 Miniopterus schreibersii individuals during the summer period. Furthermore,
Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, Rhinolophus hipposideros and Myotis capaccinii were found to be
using this cave as a hibernation roost. The newly described pseudo-scorpion species, Neobisium (O.)
hazalae sp. n., was found in the guano sampled from this cave.
Figure 71
Pottery pieces in Tirfez Cave
There are no major threats to Tirfez Cave and, given its important faunal diversity, the cave should
be designated as a Natural Monument.
56
Figure 72
Map of Tirfez Cave
4.24 UZUNTARLA CAVE
NATURAL MONUMENT
Figure 73
Entrance of Uzuntarla Cave (left); Rhinolophus blasii (right)
Geomorphology
Uzuntarla Cave is a fossil cave located between Evrenli and Balkaya Villages in Vize. It is formed in
old limestone layers of Strandja Massif. After the entrance, the first 5 m of the cave base are
covered with depression rocks and then this passage starts getting narrower. This slim passage
enters a large gallery which contains many flowstone formations. The floor of this gallery is covered
with guano and mud. The total length of the cave is 135 m and the maximum height is 6 m.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Uzuntarla Cave.
Biospeleology
57
There is a resident Rhinolophus blasii colony in Uzuntarla Cave. This colony uses this cave both for
hibernation and as a nursery roost. Six invertebrate species were also recorded, most of them
belonging to Class Insecta.
Figure 74
Haplophthalmus stygivagus (left); Meta menardi (right)
The damage done by the treasure hunters is the only threat to the cave environment. Considering
the Rhinolophus colony inhabiting the cave, Uzuntarla should be designated as a Natural Monument
to address such a threat.
Figure 75
Map of Uzuntarla Cave
4.25 YENESU CAVE
Village: Balkaya; District: Vize, Province: Kırklareli
58
Figure 76
Flowstone formations in Yenesu Cave
Geomorphology
Yenesu Cave is an active cave located east of Balkaya Village on the right side of Yana Stream. The
water coming out of the cave is one of the springs that feeds the Yana Stream. Yenesu, with a total
length of 1620 m, is the second longest cave in the Yıldız Mountains after Dupnisa Cave System.
Right after the entrance there is a wide passage with a high ceiling, covered with rocks. Typically,
the stream in the cave flowing down the deeper passages comes out between the rocks in this
section and sinks again after a short stretch, re-emerging outside the cave. After heavy rains,
according to villagers, the water sometimes bursts out through the mud remaining at the entrance
as a sudden flow. Therefore it could be dangerous to go inside the cave on rainy days. After this
wide section, the cave is formed inside a horizontal breach in the limestone, 2-8 m wide,
approximately 2 m high and with a long 800 m highly active passage. Near the end of this passage
there is a half-active second passage on the right wall, covered with beautiful stalactites,
stalagmites, columns and soda straws approximate 600 m long.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Kız Cave.
Biospeleology
A Rhinolophus euryale colony was recorded during the hibernation period. A salamander, Triturus
karelinii, which is most probably an accidental species, was caught. Also recorded were five
invertebrate species belonging to the Class Arachnida.
Local people want to drain water from the cave for the fish farms close to Yenesu Cave.. There is a
picnic area by Yenesu Cave that, together with the vicinity, is a popular place for visitors from the
region. Therefore, it is possible that the cave might be opened to tourism. Taking into account that
Yenesu has very beautiful geomorphological formations, an underwater stream, and that it is
inhabited by bats, the cave merits very high conservation priority for designation as a Nature
Reserve.
59
Figure 77
Map of Yenesu Cave
60
4.26 YEŞILLIK CAVE
Village: Armağan; District: Demirköy; Province: Kırklareli
Figure 78
Entrance to Yeşillik Cave
Geomorphology
Yeşillik Cave is located in a forested region on the northern side of Armağan Village. The Cave is
formed inside limestone layers in Mesozoic metamorphic and intrusive rocks of Strandja Massif.
Yeşillik Cave is a fossil cave wwith four small chambers. The base of the first chamber from the
entrance is covered with depression rocks. Other chambers’ bases are covered with mud and guano.
The cave has a weak variety of flowstone formations. The depth of the cave is 13 m and its total
length is 135 m.
Archaeology
No archaeological relics have been found on the cave floor of Dupnisa Cave.
Biospeleology
No bats were encountered in Yeşillik Cave.
There are no major threats to Yeşillik Cave.
61
Figure 79
Map of Yeşillik Cave
62
5.
CONCLUSIONS
Surveys of 26 caves were undertaken in the Yıldız Mountains, of which 12 lie within the proposed
Yilidiz Mountain Biosphere and 14 are located in the vicinity of its south-western border (Figure 19).
Biospeleological surveys revealed that the underground habitats in Yıldız Mountains have a high
biodiversity. More than 50 faunal species were recorded, with invertebrates being the most diverse
taxonomic group, and 40 species have now been identified. Cave-dwelling bats are also very
common in Yıldız Mountains and most of the caves in the region are used both as hibernation and
nursery roosts. In addition, one amphibian species was recorded. Treasure hunting, quarries, and
cave tourism are the most common threats to the cave ecosystems.
Dupnisa Cave System, part of which has been opened to the public, is the most important
underground habitat in the region. However, the negative effects of tourism activities in the cave
are evident and, therefore, urgent precautions have to be taken. The area surrounding Dupnisa
Cave System is being threatened by increased tourism activity and some associated infrastructural
development, requiring the habitat to be protected.
Biospeleological data, archaeological findings, geomorphological formations, and threats to cave
ecosystems were evaluated to assess the priority conservation needs of the underground habitats. A
number of caves ecosystems are threatened by treasure hunting, quarrying and cave tourism.
Accordingly, nine caves have been identified as High Conservation Priority for establishment as
Nature Reserves and eight caves have been proposed as Natural Monuments under the National
Parks Law No. 2873. Threatened caves lying within the proposed Yıldız Biopshere and recommended
for protection are as follows:
Proposed Nature Reserve
Proposed Natural Monument
Dupnisa
Bostanlıktarla
Kız
Çatalyol
Kovantaşı
Kıyıköy
Kuru
Mermer
Tirfez
In conclusion, underground habitats in Yıldız Mountains have high biodiversity values, including
species new to science, and are also rich in terms of their archaeological and geomorphological
features. Many of these habitats are under constant pressure and, therefore, need urgent
protection. It is considered that these habitats can be best conserved by assigning appropriate legal
conservation measures in combination with collaborating closely with the local people. Thus, the
participation of villagers should be gained by informing them about the role of the caves in their
environment. Importantly, the effectiveness of protection measures must be assessed by routine
monitoring over the long term to assess the status of bat populations and detect any changes.
Finally, this study has shown that more detailed surveys are required to identify the invertebrate
fauna and assess the full archaeological value of some these caves.
63
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67
YILDIZ MOUNTAINS CAVES REPORT
YILDIZ MOUNTAINS BIOSPHERE PROJECT
REPORT SERIES
No.5: Caves of the Yildiz Mountains and their
fauna

No 5. Caves of Yildiz Mountains and their fauna

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