Myths, Temperatures, and the Life Below
Caves have long captured our imagination, conjuring images of dark, secretive places with hidden wonders and mysterious creatures. Yet, despite their intrigue, there are a few common misconceptions about these underground environments. Let’s take a closer look at some of these myths—and the science behind them!
Myth #1: Caves Are Always Cold
One of the most persistent myths about caves is that they are always cold. While it’s true that many caves may feel chilly, not all caves are the same. In fact, cave temperatures generally reflect the average ground temperature of the surrounding area.
Think of the earth above the cave like a natural blanket, insulating the underground space from fluctuations in daily and seasonal weather. This usually means that caves in northern regions are colder, while those in the south tend to be warmer. For example, Inner Space Cavern on IH-35 in Georgetown maintains a temperature of 72°F with 98 percent humidity, which feels like 80°F. This makes it a welcome refuge from the heat in summer and a comfortable spot during winter, even though the temperature remains the same year-round.
There are variables that can affect how a cave’s temperature feels, though — such as entrances to the surface causing hot air to rise. For instance, Longhorn Cavern is also in Texas, but it feels 68°F due to the many natural entrances which create airflow.
Myth #2: No Life Besides Bats
Another misconception is that caves are home to nothing but bats. While bats are indeed one of the most well-known cave dwellers, they are far from the only creatures that inhabit these dark spaces. Life in caves is diverse, though it has adapted to the unique challenges of living without sunlight.
A typical food chain is based on the sun, which gives plants energy through photosynthesis. But, in a cave, there is no sun, so cave ecosystems rely on organic material that has been washed in from the surface — like leaves — or carried in by animals, such as bat guano. Microorganisms break down this material to feed millipedes, which are eaten by cave spiders and centipedes. Some creatures, like salamanders and crickets, live in caves for long periods but may venture to the surface for food or mating.
Despite the absence of sunlight, life in caves has evolved in fascinating ways. Many cave-dwelling species have adapted to their environment by developing traits such as the loss of pigmentation or enhanced sensory abilities, which allow them to thrive in a world without light.
So, the next time you step into a cave, remember that it’s more than just a cool refuge from the outside world. It’s a complex ecosystem where life is sustained by very specific conditions, and where the temperature and wildlife are shaped by the natural processes of the earth itself.
Inner Space Cavern • One of the best preserved caves in Texas, Inner Space Cavern has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors since 1966 and offers a variety of activities year round. InnerSpaceCavern.com • 4200 S IH-35 Georgetown