Elevated mercury accumulation and inefficient biomagnification in subterranean streams: Insights from karst cave ecosystems

Key Points

• Elevated mercury accumulation was found in subterranean streams within karst caves, highlighting ecological contamination risks.
• The study showed that biomagnification of mercury was inefficient, with less than anticipated increase in higher trophic levels.
• Assessment involved ecological sampling and mercury measurement across diverse subterranean stream sites in karst regions.
• These findings may indicate significant long-term ecological impacts, necessitating further investigation for effective management.