ABSTRACT

The term “subterranean” is an adjective meaning something/somebody existing or occurring under the earth’s surface. It is a larger domain that includes caves, caverns, lava tubes and phreatic spaces. Habitats, such as deep burrows, ant hill and other similar underground biogenic structures, of several burrowing and cryptobiotic animals, could be included in the subterranean category. Manmade underground tunnels, namely concrete pipelines carrying domestic sewage, could also be termed as a type of subterranean niche. In general, subterranean spaces are poorly explored as regards mapping of the biodiversity. The main limitations are: (a) lack of easy access to these underground spaces, (b) prevalence of darkness with high humidity, and (c) the fear of unknown and uncertain things and/or events. In India, so far no concerted efforts have been made to survey the already known subterranean habitats. Further a dedicated research institute/center in the realm of biospeleology (= science of cave/ hypogean organisms) is conspicuously absent.