Results of the research of the Sesalačka cave as a basis for its protection (Sokobanja structural basin, Eastern Serbia)

Abstract

Sesalačka cave is a well-known speleological site on the northeastern border of the Sokobanja structural basin in Eastern Serbia. In order to protect the cave, expert associates of the Institute for Nature Conservation of Serbia have carried out research, the results of which are the subject of this paper. During the research, qualitative methods of synthetic data processing were applied, as well as procedures of general speleological research, collection and determination of fauna in the cave and its surroundings. The obtained research results are the basis for distinguishing the natural values of the Sesalačka cave as a Karst phenomenon and a complex natural phenomenon within its biological diversity. A special value of this cave is its morphogenetic characteristic within the integration and dissolution genetic properties of the cave. With the example of the Sesalačka cave, the theoretical assumption that caves with such genetic properties are one of the most complex forms of relief on Earth, has its full justification. Biological diversity of the cave consists of a diverse fauna of invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles and bats. Bearing in mind that the genetic features of the cave have not fully been clarified, and especially the fact that the geo-ecological conditions of the cave fauna have not fully been researched, a multidisciplinary research should be continued since the Sesalačka cave deserves it due to its natural values.