I suggest that Freshwater Systems should be included as a conservation target. It is correct that CC is chararcterised by a scarcity of surface water, and there is considerable overlap between Freshwater and Cave communities. However Freshwater Communities of Cockpit Country extend beyond the cave systems.

The very scarcity of surface freshwater in Cockpit Country is a good reason for focussing on the conservation of the aquatic communities which have colonised them. Firstly, these systems (short surface reaches before the streams disappear underground, ephemeral pools during the rainy season and springs especially in the lower elevations where the water table cuts the surface) are limited in extent but are inhabited by aquatic species yet to be examined. Conservation of FW systems in CC is also important for some downstream connections. I found two species in surface reaches; Atya and Macrobrachium which are known to migrate between estuarine and headwater regions.

It is tempting to nest FW communities with cave communities and I would have supported such a move if we had too many targets to manage. However, I am not sure if if all subterranean aquatic communities can be included with the caves. I also think that when it comes to analysing the stresses faced by FW communities, stresses such as groundwater contamination, sedimentation, invasive aquatic species and the clogging of underground and surface rivers may not be addressed adequately if FW communities are not a separate target.

As the SCP process progresses, we can revise our targets. If in the future FW communities are seen to be inviable or less of a priority, then it can be removed as a target. However in our initial analysis I strongly suggest that we include it. I will do my best to provide the necessary information and answer any queries.

Kimberly John