On art, science, and the conservation of subterranean ecosystems

Caves, with their unique geologic and biological features, have inspired human imagination throughout history. From photography to movies, through comics, painting, and poetry, subterranean ecosystems feature prominently in various forms of artistic expression, often incorporating scientific ideas or concepts. Integrating art with science offers a powerful way to convey the uniqueness and importance of the organisms that inhabit subterranean ecosystems, emphasizing their importance as providers of key ecological and cultural services. This, in turn, would help promote their conservation. We discuss realized and unrealized connections between subterranean biologists and artists, aiming to achieve broader protection for subterranean ecosystems. We showcase the different art forms that depict subterranean environments, explain how each aligns with conservation science, and highlight the mutual benefits artists and researchers in subterranean biology can derive from collaboration. In doing so, we pose two important questions: How can we effectively bridge the cultural divide between subterranean scientists and artists? And how can we assess the effectiveness of art in enhancing science communication about subterranean ecosystems and their conservation? By addressing these questions, we envision a future where art and science intersect to safeguard the rich and diverse subterranean biological and cultural heritage.