The NS — Underground Cavities sub-indicator measures habitat suitability for pollinators that nest in pre-existing underground cavities. This group notably includes bumblebees (Bombus) and some solitary wasp species, which do not actively excavate but occupy abandoned rodent burrows, rock interstices, tree root cavities, and other natural underground voids.
The availability of underground cavities is linked to mature and diversified ecosystems, with abundant micro-mammals (whose abandoned burrows are reused) and undisturbed soils. Intensive agricultural areas and urban surfaces offer few nesting opportunities for this group.
Weight in NS weighted average: 1.
Calculated using the InVEST Pollinator Model. Each CLC class is assigned a suitability coefficient (0–1). Highest suitability for natural meadows, forest edges, hedgerows, and ecotonal zones; lowest for impervious surfaces and ploughed fields.
| Code | Name | Provider | Type | Coverage | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
WRD_INVST_99 | InVEST Pollinator Model | Natural Capital Project | model | Global | Continuous |
NS sub-indicator for underground cavities. Each CLC class receives a suitability coefficient for underground cavities (0-1) based on the InVEST Pollinator model. Target species: Bombus (abandoned rodent burrows). Weight in NS weighted average: 1. Scale: 0-1.