Astronauts of the underworld: The scientists venturing into the deep, dark Earth

Caving is an exciting adventure that allows people to explore the hidden parts of our planet. Phil Short, a well-known cave explorer, believes that caving is one of the last frontiers of true exploration. In Wookey Hole, Somerset, he explains how caves are alive and interact with the outside world. The air pressure inside a cave can change depending on the weather outside. For example, if it is hot outside, the cave can feel cool, and if it is cold outside, the cave can feel warm. This is because caves breathe in air from the outside, creating a unique environment that can be very different from what we experience above ground. As I crawl through the narrow tunnels of the cave, I feel as if I am entering a different world. The walls are covered in shiny stalagmites and stalactites, and I have to be careful not to bump into the sharp formations. Phil tells me that caves are full of surprises and treasures, including new species of animals and plants that scientists have yet to discover. Some caves are so vast that they can support entire ecosystems, which means they are home to many different kinds of life. Phil has spent countless hours exploring caves, and he believes that there is still so much to learn. He explains that when you enter an unexplored cave, you are stepping into a place where no one has ever been before. This sense of discovery is thrilling, as it means there are still many secrets hidden beneath the Earth's surface. In another part of the world, entomologist Leonidas-Romanos Davranoglou ventured into the Cyclops Mountains in Indonesia. He encountered a variety of fascinating creatures, including leeches that seemed to be everywhere. These leeches were on the ground, in the bushes, and even on the trees, making it essential for him to be cautious. Despite the dangers, Leonidas and his team were determined to conduct a comprehensive survey of the ecosystem. They discovered new species and documented their findings with photographs. One of their most exciting discoveries was a cave filled with bats and cave crickets, which are unique insects that thrive in dark environments. The presence of cave crickets is a strong indicator of a rich cave ecosystem. Phil and Leonidas are just two examples of the many explorers who are helping us understand the hidden world beneath our feet. They believe that every new species discovered can provide valuable insights into the history of life on Earth and how we can protect these vital ecosystems. Caves are not merely dark voids; they are vibrant habitats teeming with life and stories waiting to be uncovered.