Cave systems in Mexico provide unique ecosystems and are home to vulnerable species. There are over 12,000 known caves in Mexico, including the massive Sistema Huautla and Sistema Sac Actun cave systems. Caves support various animal life, including bats, invertebrates, cavefish, and large mammals. However, caves face threats from pollution, vandalism, mining, and proposed infrastructure projects. To protect these fragile ecosystems, the document advocates for increased legal protections, educational outreach, and restricted access to vulnerable cave systems.

1. Cave Systems of México
By Evelyn Cipres

2. What are caves?
• Caves: a natural opening within Earth's
surface large enough for human exploration
o Various geological processes
o Different rocks
o Various sizes & structure
oTypes: Glacier, sea, lava, solutional, etc...

3. Where are caves located?
• 12,000 known caves (only 4,000
mapped)
• Sistema Huautla (62.7 mi)
o Sierra MAzateca Mnts., Oaxaca
• Sistema Sac Actun (208 mi)
o Yucatan Peninsula
o 2nd largest known
o Crystalline pools "cenotes"
o Largest underground river in the world
• Caves found globally above/below
surface
o 45,000 caves in the United States
México

4. • Home to unique ecosystems & vulnerable species
How does it affect life?
• Animals:
o Bats
o Invertebrates
o Cavefish
o Pumas, Jaguars, Deer,
Opposums
• Provides access to fresh
groundwater
• Food, nesting,
rest, bathing, mates,
etc...

5. Problems?
Pollution
• Vandalism, Sewage, mining, trash...
• Example: "Mayan Train Route"
o Diesel + electric trains through Yucatan Peninsula
o "Pros" - new jobs by 2030; decrease in poverty
o Cons – environmental risks
• Risks:
o Diesel leaks
o Breaking fragile ground
o Tree roots
o Groundwater pollution
o Likelihood of losing more species
Human Activity

6. Solutions
Protection &
restricted
access/use of caves
• International
treaties & gov't
legislation
• Educational programs
to educate on
importance of cave
conservation
• Installing cave
gates

7. Conclusion
Real Change Takes
Action
• Important ecosystems
and animals at risk
• Participating in
calling
representative to
persuade into action
• Mindfulness at
tourist attraction
caves