Cave macro-invertebrates in Linao, San Isidro, Davao del Norte, Philippines

Macro-invertebrates have an important role in maintaining the stability of the wide niches of faunal assemblage of caves. This study was conducted to determine the diversity and relative abundance of macro-invertebrates inside of an unexplored cave in San Isidro, Davao del Norte. Sampling was done through a combination of methods: visual search and direct counting methods. Eleven species of macro-invertebrates belonging to six orders were recorded. Cyclophorus linguiferus, Lamarckiella mindanaensis were found only in the entrance and Sundathelpusa sp. was found the most abundant species inside the cave. The highest species richness and abundance were found in the thickest guano deposit. The cave has low diversity index. Disturbances present in the cave seem to have affected the species and individuals.