Client: Barać Caves Public Institution
Country: Croatia
Duration: 03/2025 – 04/2026
Project description:
DVOKUT-ECRO carried out research on lampenflora in the Upper Barać Cave, a show cave located within the Barać Caves Significant Landscape. The project aimed to determine the distribution, composition and characteristics of lampenflora and to define measures for its removal and prevention of further development.
The assignment included cave field surveys, inspection of illuminated surfaces, mapping of sites with developed lampenflora, measurement of basic microclimatic parameters and light intensity, as well as sampling and laboratory analysis of organisms associated with lampenflora. Particular attention was given to algae, cyanobacteria, mosses, ferns, protozoa, small invertebrates, macrofauna and fungi.
Based on the research results, recommendations were prepared for the removal of lampenflora and prevention of its recurrence, including proposals for lighting adjustments, selective cleaning, application of environmentally acceptable treatment methods and further monitoring of the effectiveness of implemented measures.
The project contributes to the protection of the sensitive underground ecosystem of the Upper Barać Cave, the preservation of its natural, geological, paleontological and cultural-historical values, and the sustainable management of cave tourism.
