New Pub: Limestone Karst Ecology and Anthropogenic Activities Associated with Cave-dwelling Bats of Southern Shan State, Myanmar
New Pathogen Plasticity Project study published in Global Ecology and Conservation
Limestone karst caves support bat biodiversity across Southeast Asia, yet many remain poorly studied and are increasingly impacted by human activity. In this study recently published study, we collaborated with the Nature Conservation Society Myanmar to characterize 41 caves in Southern Shan State, Myanmar to explore how cave size, structure, microclimate, and nearby disturbance relate to bat abundance and species diversity. We found that larger caves, warmer internal temperatures, and greater distance from roads were associated with higher numbers of bats. Most caves surveyed showed signs of multiple human impacts, including hunting, guano extraction, and cave development, which we quantified using a modified biotic vulnerability index. With over 80% of caves classified as vulnerable or moderately vulnerable, our results highlight the need for conservation efforts to protect karst caves and preserve bat biodiversity.
Aung MM, Htike TSM, Phwe NP, Aung O, Aung PP, Yae WM, Zaw SM, Oo KN, Wai TH, Aung HH, Wang YXG, Cords O, Kading RC, Boots M, Ehrlich H, Gardner NR, Johnson CK, Evans TS. Limestone Karst Ecology and Anthropogenic Activities Associated with Cave-dwelling Bats of Southern Shan State, Myanmar. Global Ecology and Conservation. 2026 Jun;e04071. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2026.e04071