Gordion
—
2018 —
WHEE540D6F68A
A 2016 conservation project at Gordion, Turkey, revealed sophisticated Middle Phrygian (ca. 800–700 b.c.e.) construction techniques that enhanced stability of a rubble platform beneath the Gate Complex. The study found that internal casemate-like walls and strategically placed juniper logs supported the rubble fill, while water-soluble gypsum contributed to its eventual collapse in antiquity. Stabilization efforts not only preserved these features but also improved visitor accessibility, highlighting the Early Phrygian gateway as a key access point to the megarons on the Citadel Mound.
Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area of Ethiopia
—
2018 —
WHE2DC7B36122
A rare ichnological assemblage from Gombore II-2, Melka Kunture, Ethiopia, provides unprecedented insight into the daily life of a mixed-age hominin group 700,000 years ago. The tracks, preserved in silty substrate near a water body, reveal the presence of adults and children as young as 12 months, alongside ungulates, mammals, and birds. This discovery, combined with rich archaeological and paleontological records, confirms in situ knapping activity and the use of stone tools for butchering hippo carcasses. The site offers direct evidence of hominin landscape use during this period, shedding light on the early social dynamics and subsistence strategies of our ancestors.
Aapravasi Ghat
—
2018 —
WHE7BD93BB1A5
Heritage in Mauritius has evolved as a dynamic instrument reflecting societal values and political objectives, particularly through archaeological research. The study reveals how cultural elements, including Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Mountain—both UNESCO World Heritage Sites—serve as material evidence of post-colonial identity negotiations. Archaeology plays a pivotal role in shaping management policies and mediating the complex interplay between ethnic groups, while tourism further commercializes this shared past. This research underscores heritage's dual function: as both a tool for political affirmation and a commodity in global marketing.
Archaeological Areas of Pompei, Herculaneum and Torre Annunziata
—
2018 —
WHE7896F9B37A
Archaeometric analysis of alabaster thresholds at Villa A, Oplontis, reveals that while several potential quarry sources can be excluded, the exact origin remains uncertain. This study, combining minero-petrographic and isotopic (Sr and Pb) analyses, underscores the need for a comprehensive database of Roman-period alabaster quarries to better understand ancient material sourcing practices. The thresholds, dating back to the mid-1st century BC, represent one of the most spectacular examples of alabaster use from villas preserved by Vesuvius' eruption in AD 79.
Koh Ker: Archaeological Site of Ancient Lingapura or Chok Gargyar
—
2018 —
WHEA7542900F4
A key insight from this study is that the Prasat Sour Prat (PSP) towers, located just outside Angkor Thom's Royal Palace and Plaza, were constructed rapidly using laterite blocks, a material typically associated with less refined structures. This rapid construction hypothesis is supported by distinctive masonry techniques observed in PSP, which differ from those found in other laterite structures, such as those at Koh Ker. The research suggests that the choice of laterite may have been strategic, possibly to expedite the building process without compromising structural integrity. By comparing PSP's architectural features with those of Koh Ker, the study sheds light on the construction practices and historical context of Angkorian masonry techniques.
National History Park – Citadel, Sans Souci, Ramiers
—
2018 —
WHEA4712449E6
The architectural remnants of the Haitian Revolution, specifically the Citadelle Laferrière and Sans-Souci Palace, reveal mythical traces that encapsulate the dual narratives of enslaved insurgents and their colonizers. Built under King Henri Christophe's reign (1811–1820), these neoclassical structures lack documented architects or construction records, yet they symbolize the ephemeral condition of insurgency. Minosh argues that these edifices represent an attempt to solidify in architecture the political space forged by enslaved people outside colonial terms, while also reflecting the colonizer's fear of insurrection threatening France’s mercantile economy. The study employs literary and mythical traces to interpret these artifacts as architectural instantiations of revolutionary mythos, offering a unique lens on Haiti's first independent black nation.
Gdynia Modernist City Centre
—
2018 —
WHE59179C2720
Contemporary architecture in Gdynia's city center reflects a contextualist approach, blending three distinct tendencies—regionalism, semiotics, and technologizing—that reference local modernist traditions while incorporating postmodern elements. These intertwined tendencies create a coherent architectural whole that strengthens the city's identity and continuity. However, the study also highlights limitations in the application of Western European modernist patterns, suggesting a need for deeper scrutiny to avoid naive repetition.
Medina of Fez
—
2018 —
WHED7B3240003
A recent study reveals that the value of Fez's medina as both a tourist attraction and heritage site is not fixed but varies depending on stakeholders' perspectives. The research, based on an analysis of a homestay initiative in Fez, demonstrates that the medina's potential for sustainable tourism is shaped by competing interests: those prioritizing tourism to preserve heritage and others leveraging heritage value to drive economic development. This territorial approach highlights the dynamic interplay between heritage conservation and tourism-driven growth, offering insights into how such initiatives can either serve as a means or an end in local development strategies.
Archaeological Site of Ani
—
2018 —
WHE66D4E50160
A French archaeological team's 15-year study of fortified sites and ruined churches along the Akhurian River, which now serves as a modern border between Turkey and Armenia, has uncovered new interpretations of Ani's ancient history. The research, focusing on less-studied monuments in the Shirak region, revealed that despite conflicts and the decline of commerce, the area remained prosperous during the 12th and 13th centuries. This work also facilitated collaboration with Armenian scholars, shedding light on the region's medieval architecture and historical significance.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
—
2018 —
WHEC9177D74F7
The study introduces a scientific and technical framework for protecting vernacular architecture in San Cristóbal de La Laguna by developing analytical categories and interpretative terms that capture the site's architectural heritage. This approach, rooted in Tenerife's history since conquest, creates a comprehensive glossary applicable across Canarias. Notably, it highlights the role of drawing as a critical tool for analyzing vernacular architecture, providing a method to systematically document and preserve its unique characteristics.
Old Town of Corfu
—
2018 —
WHEC4FF80CBD3
Corfu's unique beauty stems from its distinctive atmospheric clarity and vibrant color palette, setting it apart from other Mediterranean islands. Unlike the hazy landscapes of Italy or the stark transparency of northern New England, Corfu's air offers a rare combination of luminosity and chromatic intensity—mountains bathed in lilac, violet plains, and crimson peaks—enhanced by the Ionian Sea's unparalleled blue. This phenomenon, described as 'pellucid' by Euripides, creates an overstimulating yet invigorating environment that affects both the landscape and human perception. The study contrasts Corfu with other iconic sites like Capri, highlighting its dual attributes of color saturation and atmospheric transparency, which distinguish it as a singularly breathtaking World Heritage Site.
Cueva de las Manos, Río Pinturas
—
2018 —
WHE438C68C565
Research at Cueva de las Manos, Río Pinturas, reveals significant insights into territorial demarcation and mobility patterns among ancient human groups. The study identifies distinct styles within the B1 stylistic group of rock art, characterized by variations in guanaco representation, and traces their distribution across multiple sites: Cueva de las Manos (ARP I), Alero Charcamata-II (CH II), Cueva Grande de Arroyo Feo (AF I), and Cerro de los Indios-1 (CI-1). Findings indicate that around 3500 years ago, certain styles became widespread across these sites, suggesting a period of shared cultural practices. However, this unity fragmented over time, with CI-1 diverging to align with sites in the nearby Parque Nacional Perito Moreno, reflecting shifting territorial dynamics and ecological adaptations.
Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi and Palace of Tau, Reims
—
2018 —
WHEA21BBFD944
A collection of thirteen essays, published in <em>Arts of the Medieval Cathedrals: Studies on Architecture, Stained Glass and Sculpture in Honor of Anne Prache</em>, presents groundbreaking insights into Gothic art and architecture. The volume, edited by Kathleen Nolan and Dany Sandron, integrates historical and archaeological evidence with new technologies to analyze the design, decoration, and functions of medieval cathedrals, including Reims Cathedral. Key contributions include Walter Berry's re-examination of Reims Cathedral's building chronology using 1990s excavation data, Michael T. Davis's analysis of Guillebert de Mets's fifteenth-century description of Paris, and Ellen M. Shortell's study on the choir of Saint-Quentin. The essays also explore stained glass programs, such as Sylvie Balcon-Berry's reconstruction of Reims Cathedral's destroyed windows, and sculpture, including William W. Clark's examination of the radiating chapels' exterior program. By applying geometric analysis and interdisciplinary approaches, the volume advances the understanding of Gothic architectural integration and workshop practices.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
—
2018 —
WHEE0BFB304A5
A recent census conducted by the Assam Government between March and April 2018 revealed a significant increase in the population of greater one-horned rhinos (Rhinoceros unicornis) in Kaziranga National Park, with a total count of 2,413 individuals—an increase of 12 since 2015. This population represents approximately 70% of the species' global count, underscoring the park's critical role in conservation efforts. Additionally, Orang National Park and Pabitora Wildlife Sanctuary hold smaller but notable populations of 101 and 102 rhinos, respectively, while Manas National Park is scheduled for a population assessment later this year. The overall conservation status of greater one-horned rhinos in India and Nepal remains encouraging, with stable or increasing populations, particularly in Kaziranga and Jaldapara National Parks. However, poaching remains a persistent threat, with West Bengal and Assam reporting losses despite efforts such as the establishment of Fast Track courts to expedite wildlife case trials.
Greater Blue Mountains Area
—
2018 —
WHE6120CC381E
Research on the large-eared pied bat (Chalinolobus dwyeri) reveals critical insights into its foraging and roosting behavior, which are essential for its conservation. The study found that females exhibit larger foraging ranges than males but show high fidelity to preferred areas, while males demonstrate less roost fidelity and tend to roost farther from their foraging grounds. Both sexes prefer west-facing cliff faces without large caverns, with a strong preference for habitats such as sharp grassland-forest borders in western valleys, moist drainage gullies, and mid-to-upper-canopy forest edges. These findings suggest that land management and conservation efforts should prioritize the preservation of these specific habitat features to support the bat's survival.
The Dolomites
—
2018 —
WHE1C1862BFFD
A balanced mix of incentives and restrictions on private mobility can effectively address the tourism-traffic paradox in ecologically sensitive yet tourism-intensive areas, such as the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site. This study quantifies the impact of traffic management measures on tourist demand through a stated preference survey, revealing that alternative transportation must be highly performing—cheap, frequent, integrated, and with extended daily schedules—to mitigate negative side effects. Clear and unavoidable restrictions on private mobility are also crucial. The findings suggest a re-design of tourism and transportation systems as integrated domains to minimize environmental impact while sustaining economic benefits.
Kaziranga National Park
—
2018 —
WHE3C8415E15B
Flooding significantly disrupts the grassland ecosystem of Kaziranga National Park (KNP), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and critical habitat for the great Indian rhino, elephant, and Royal Bengal Tiger. A study using remote sensing and geographic information systems revealed that floods cause extensive degradation and fragmentation of KNP's alluvial grasslands, which are vital for rhino feeding habitats. These impacts take considerable time to recover, posing a severe threat to vulnerable rhino populations (IUCN Red List: B1ab (iii)). The research utilized SARAL/AltiKa data to measure Brahmaputra River water levels, Landsat 8 OLI for land use and land cover mapping, and Sentinel 1A to detect flood situations during August 2017. Integrating real-time assessment data from these sources offers potential for improved conservation practices and natural resource management in the park.
Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains
—
2018 —
WHE4B9345144A
A study assessing the contribution of ecosystem services to human well-being in Wolong Natural Reserve reveals that social welfare benefits significantly outweigh personal ones, with regulatory services such as air purification, disaster prevention, and freshwater supply providing the highest welfare contributions. While policies aimed at biodiversity conservation and ecological restoration have led to declines in services like plant gathering, traditional agriculture, livestock, and soil fertility—particularly soil fertility—a key driver of welfare, demographic factors such as gender, age, occupation, and income also significantly influence these benefits. The research highlights soil fertility as a critical ecosystem service and offers management strategies to address disparities in welfare contributions.
Doñana National Park
—
2018 —
WHE3E2D9A842F
Groundwater discharge sustains the hydroperiod of Doñana dune ponds, contributing up to 80% of their total water inflows. However, some ponds now act as recharge systems due to declining piezometric levels from nearby groundwater extraction for urban use. Researchers quantified these fluxes using daily hydrological balances and classified the ponds accordingly. The study highlights the vulnerability of this UNESCO World Heritage Site's hydrology to anthropogenic pressures, particularly in coastal resorts adjacent to Doñana National Park.
City of Cuzco
—
2018 —
WHE0E6E34FC36
A critical reassessment of the Coricancha temple's alleged astronomical function challenges the long-standing hypothesis that its architecture facilitated solar observations tied to a 328-day Inca calendar. While early Spanish accounts and structural analyses hinted at solar reflections on sacred effigies, such as the Sun figure (Punchao), this study's meticulous measurements and historical review cast doubt on the temple's role in formal astronomical observation. The research suggests that while Coricancha's design may incorporate subtle solar alignments, its primary purpose was likely religious rather than calendrical. This work refines our understanding of Inca architectural symbolism and the limits of archaeological evidence for astronomical claims.
Ningaloo Coast
—
2018 —
WHEB8FAF9E758
Research on the Ningaloo Coast reveals an asymmetric cloud-shortwave radiation-sea surface temperature (SST) feedback mechanism, where positive SST anomalies trigger a negative feedback due to increased high cloud cover from deep convection, while negative SST anomalies induce a positive feedback linked to low cloud cover under subtropical high influence. This asymmetry arises because the region's relatively high SSTs are near the convective threshold. The study analyzed observational and reanalysis data to uncover this dynamic, shedding light on how cloud-SST interactions differ in eastern boundary regions.
Delos
—
2018 —
WHEBE906E7F47
Research on Athenian moldmade bowls from Delos reveals a previously unknown step in the production process and evidence for the export of molds, suggesting that 'Attic' bowls were produced beyond Athens. Analyzing Laumonier's sample of 2,000+ Hellenistic hemispherical relief bowls, the study identifies all major decorative types, with long-petal bowls being most common. The imagery aligns closely with Athenian bowls, but new stamps and workshop attributions are documented. While some bowls arrived on Delos before 167 BCE, the majority were imported later, possibly impacting Athenian industry development.
Volcanoes of Kamchatka
—
2018 —
WHEC4C222DA12
A rare hydrothermal eruption of Kambalniy Volcano, dormant for 500 years, was characterized by unusual atmospheric wave disturbances and seismic activity. The eruption, lasting from March 24 to April 10, 2017, produced quasi-sinusoidal oscillations with a frequency of 8 Hz (acoustic tremor or AT), detected via an infrasound station IS44 located 208 km away. Three strong seismic signals were simultaneously registered at the eruption's onset, with monitoring from the nearby Pauzhetka seismic station revealing a brief and weak seismic build-up (Kmax = 8.6). The absence of discrete infrasound signals typically associated with explosive eruptions suggests a distinct pattern of ash-and-gas emissions, reinforcing the classification of this event as hydrothermal in nature.
Nemrut Dağ
—
2018 —
WHE8BD565018F
Atmospheric weathering significantly impacts the longevity and conservation of historic monuments, with processes driven by temperature fluctuations, humidity, pollutants, and biological agents. The study highlights that successful conservation depends on precise diagnostic assessments to identify decay mechanisms and deterioration factors, ensuring treatments are compatible with both deteriorated and sound materials. Two case studies—marble walls in a polluted urban environment and limestone statues exposed to rural climatic conditions—demonstrate the effectiveness of targeted interventions based on diagnostic research. The findings underscore the importance of minimal intervention strategies to preserve historical integrity while addressing deterioration factors.
Three Castles, Defensive Wall and Ramparts of the Market-Town of Bellinzona
—
2018 —
WHE37F3096481
Aurelio Galfetti's rehabilitation project for Castelgrande and its surrounding rock in Bellinzona redefines the historical significance of this architectural and geographical ensemble. By focusing on two fundamental human actions—digging and enclosing—the project not only preserves the site but also restores its cultural and spatial meaning, bridging past and present occupation of the landscape. This approach offers a novel perspective on how heritage conservation can revitalize the narrative of UNESCO World Heritage Sites by reinterpreting their historical functions.
Dacian Fortresses of the Orastie Mountains
—
2018 —
WHE27480955EE
The Dacian Fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains, inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1999, face significant challenges including poor conservation, vandalism, and lack of promotion. While only one fortress has a site manager, all six suffer from a complex interplay of factors contributing to their deterioration. This study identifies these issues, providing a foundation for potential solutions and reflecting on the broader implications for heritage management.
Um er-Rasas (Kastrom Mefa'a)
—
2018 —
WHEB13825D1D2
A deep learning approach successfully automates the segmentation of mosaic tesserae, significantly improving efficiency and accuracy over manual methods. This technique, applied to the mosaic floor of the Church of St. Stephen at Um er-Rasas (Kastrom Mefa'a), demonstrates high reliability in identifying non-homogeneous tesserae, a critical step for digital mosaic analysis. The method enables automatic cataloging, figure extraction, geolocalization, and semantic interpretation, addressing longstanding challenges in mosaic research. Experimental results on the collected dataset validate its effectiveness, offering a robust solution for large-scale mosaic digitization.
City of Bath
—
2018 —
WHE358C975740
Historic city centers often face trade-offs between accommodating automotive infrastructure and preserving walkability, with parking retrofits frequently disrupting pedestrian-friendly environments. A comparison of Bath, England, and San Luis Obispo, California, reveals that Bath's stricter limits on surface parking in its historic core yield higher walkability scores than those in San Luis Obispo, where more extensive parking retrofits fragment the relationship between buildings and walkways. The study analyzed case studies, planning documents, preservation literature, and walkability indicators to quantify these effects, demonstrating how urban design choices can either enhance or diminish pedestrian accessibility in heritage areas.
Bale Mountains National Park
—
2018 —
WHEE7C4D148F9
A review of global and national-scale land cover products reveals their limited accuracy in complex mountainous terrains, such as Ethiopia's Bale Mountains National Park. Despite the availability of 146 studies—most published since 2013—none utilized pre-existing land use/land cover (LULC) products; instead, they relied on individually computed maps. Validation using 185 ground truth points showed overall accuracy below 50%, highlighting significant challenges in applying these products to local-scale applications in rugged landscapes. The study underscores the need for region-specific LULC products tailored to mountainous areas.
Aksum
—
2018 —
WHEB971CB0130
The Axum Stele, a monumental artifact symbolizing Ethiopia's ancient civilization, became central to a complex international restitution process involving Italy, Ethiopia, UNESCO, and the African Union. Its removal during Mussolini’s conquest and subsequent return highlight tensions between colonialism, international law, and cultural heritage politics. This study examines how such objects navigate legal frameworks and domestic significance, revealing the interplay of expert rule, internationalism, and the political uses of repatriated artifacts.
Pyu Ancient Cities
—
2018 —
WHE2C85CDC27C
A collection of essays challenges the 'splendid isolation' thesis, demonstrating that Myanmar's ancient polities, including Pyu cities and Bagan (11th–14th centuries), were deeply connected to broader regional networks. The study synthesizes findings from historians, art historians, architects, and archaeologists, revealing shared technological advancements—such as true arch and vault construction in Pyu and Bagan architecture—and cultural exchanges with India, Southeast Asia, and beyond. Notable discoveries include Indian influences on Bagan temple designs (e.g., sikkhara decorations) and the role of Mrauk-U depositories in Buddhist literature dissemination. Radiocarbon dating and comparative analysis with Angkor Wat further underscore Myanmar's integrated place within ancient global trade and cultural systems.
Tsodilo
—
2018 —
WHEE9CFD61DAA
Safeguarding intangible cultural heritage (ICH) is crucial for preserving diverse heritage values, meanings, and uses at UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A study examining Tsodilo in Botswana and Great Zimbabwe highlights that prioritizing tangible heritage conservation often overlooks ICH, which is deeply intertwined with local culture and rituals. The research argues that understanding ICH is essential for effective material heritage management, as it can protect and sustain cultural practices tied to these sites. By analyzing the values and challenges associated with safeguarding ICH in southern Africa, the study underscores its role in maintaining the richness of heritage landscapes.
Funerary Tradition in the Prehistory of Sardinia – The domus de janas
—
2018 —
WHE6B8E99D40C
A groundbreaking analysis of Mediterranean hypogean architecture reveals distinct regional variations in the construction techniques and operational strategies used for collective burial sites during the late prehistoric period. The study, conducted across France's Fontvieille monumental complex and Sardinia's S'elighe Entosu necropolis, employed a tripartite methodology combining technological analysis of excavation tools, photogrammetric examination of wall traces, and experimental validation to test hypotheses about construction processes. Findings indicate that while core techniques were shared, local adaptations reflected cultural priorities and resource availability, challenging assumptions about the uniformity of Mediterranean burial practices. This research not only advances understanding of prehistoric engineering but also sheds light on the social significance of these subterranean structures within communities.
Hortobágy National Park - the Puszta
—
2018 —
WHE499292834D
A study on the fungal pathogen <em>Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis</em> (Bd) in Hungary reveals that it threatens amphibian populations, with an overall prevalence of 7.46% across 16 taxa. The research combined recent field sampling and historical data analysis, focusing on two sentinel species—Bombina variegata and the Pelophylax esculentus complex—in core areas like Hortobágy National Park. Notably, juvenile B. variegata showed higher Bd prevalence than adults, while infection intensity in P. esculentus was unaffected by sex, age, or sampling year. Climatic variables, such as monthly mean air temperature, were also linked to Bd prevalence, suggesting environmental factors influence the pathogen's impact. This comprehensive inventory underscores the need for systematic monitoring to mitigate chytridiomycosis in Hungarian amphibians.
Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection
—
2018 —
WHE4C640758A2
Coiba National Park, Panama's fourth-largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, harbors remarkable bat diversity with 39 species identified, despite limited study effort. This study reveals that the park's highly preserved forests support one of the highest bat species richness in Panama, with eight new species recorded. The research also documents 22 species of ectoparasitic bat flies (Diptera: Streblidae), all new records for the area, and notes a high host specificity of 98.2% among these parasites. Using mist nets and acoustic monitoring, the study identified 30 bat species from 904 captures and 751 recordings, with Artibeus jamaicensis and Carollia perspicillata being the most abundant, while Myotis nigricans, Saccopteryx leptura, and Molossus bondae were the most frequently recorded aerial insectivores. The findings suggest that Coiba's isolated yet well-preserved ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining high biodiversity.
Dholavira: a Harappan City
—
2018 —
WHE4DE73B34F5
A detailed analysis of Ernestite drills from the Harappan site of Dholavira, India, has significantly advanced our understanding of drill types and subtypes. This study, featured in 'Beads in the World,' employs statistical methods to categorize and analyze a substantial collection of drills, revealing nuanced distinctions in their attributes. The research not only enhances our knowledge of ancient Harappan craftsmanship but also provides insights into the functional diversity and possible uses of these tools during that era.
Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration
—
2018 —
WHE75B9AE83F2
Mount Fuji's mountain huts, originally serving pilgrims during the Edo era, underwent significant modernization beginning in the Meiji period (late 19th to early 20th century), transitioning from traditional stone structures to more modern facilities. This study reveals that while some huts retained their historical forms, others, particularly at key trail junctions like the eighth station, were expanded and transformed into lodgings, a post office, and first aid stations, reflecting Japan's shift toward alpinism and international tourism. The research, combining historical analysis, interviews, and field surveys, highlights how government regulations—such as those by Governor Chiyozaburo Takeda—and the influence of local stakeholders, including former oshi (pilgrim guides) and business owners, drove these changes. By the Taisho era, this modernization disrupted the equalities among huts that had existed under Edo-era ownership, marking a pivotal shift in Mt. Fuji's cultural landscape.
Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue
—
2018 —
WHE571181C941
A six-month study in Budapest revealed that river bank filtration significantly reduces concentrations of certain organic micropollutants, with some compounds showing up to 78% removal efficiency. Bisphenol A, carbamazepine, and sulfamethoxazole exhibited minimal reduction (<20%), while others like 1H-benzotriazole and diclofenac demonstrated substantial attenuation during filtration on Szentendre Island and Csepel Island. The research analyzed 36 emerging micropollutants in Danube River water and bank filtrate, highlighting the potential of this natural process to improve water quality by lowering pollutant levels.
New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands
—
2018 —
WHE4B8802D6A5
Human disturbance significantly impacts the behavior of subantarctic Yellow-eyed Penguins (<em>Megadyptes antipodes</em>), reducing their likelihood of successful transit to or from nests and altering their activity patterns. Research on Enderby Island, part of New Zealand's UNESCO-listed Auckland Islands group, revealed that current tourism guidelines—requiring a minimum 5-meter approach distance—are insufficient to prevent disturbance. The study used controlled approaches and tourist monitoring to document penguin movement and behavior, modeling effective approach distances to predict disturbance probabilities. Findings suggest revising guidelines to better protect this endangered species, with broader implications for wildlife management worldwide.
Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
—
2018 —
WHEA002008AF6
Belize Barrier Reef System is recognized for its rich biodiversity and critical ecosystem services, including fisheries production, tourism, recreation, and shoreline protection. However, it faces significant threats from overfishing, unsustainable coastal development, uncontrolled tourism, land use practices, and oil exploration. Despite these challenges, Belize has implemented effective management strategies such as integrated coastal zone management plans, managed access fisheries, a ban on oil exploration, and protective fisheries legislation to mitigate impacts on the reef. This chapter focuses on the complexities of tourism use within this system, highlighting both its economic importance and the need for sustainable practices to preserve its ecological integrity.
Palestine: Land of Olives and Vines – Cultural Landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir
—
2018 —
WHE5B3D4AE749
Palestinian resistance through culinary practices can effectively maintain cultural identity and community cohesion, as demonstrated by the village of Battir. This study reveals that food-based traditions, particularly those rooted in agricultural heritage, serve as a powerful tool for resistance against occupation, expanding the concept of al-’ūnah (collaborative work) beyond traditional Sūmūd strategies. By analyzing local dishes and their preparation, researchers highlight how Battir’s enduring inhabitants leverage domesticity to preserve land, challenge spatial appropriations, and sustain a 2,000-year-old legacy amidst ongoing conflict. Unlike narratives focused on destruction or displacement, this work underscores the resilience of continuous habitation, offering new insights into Palestinian struggle through the lens of culinary resistance.
Archaeological Site of Mystras
—
2018 —
WHEDF9D3B27E8
A pervasive ideology of aspiring to public sector work, deeply ingrained in Greek society since the nineteenth century, has significantly shaped responses to economic crises, including the recent EU-wide financial turmoil. This anthropological study reveals divergent village strategies—Mystras and Kefala—in navigating economic challenges, highlighting how historical patterns persist despite changing circumstances. By combining longitudinal ethnographic research from the 1980s and crisis years with pre- and post-independence historical material, the study offers a nuanced understanding of Greece's financial struggles beyond conventional bailout narratives.
Archipiélago de Revillagigedo
—
2018 —
WHE35A91B611F
Long-lasting archipelago configurations during the Pleistocene have had a stronger impact on single-island endemic species richness than short-term extreme conditions, such as those at the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) or present-day. This finding challenges the assumption that only extreme sea-level fluctuations shape insular biodiversity. Researchers analyzed 53 volcanic oceanic islands across 12 global archipelagos, including the Revillagigedo Archipelago, using species richness data for land snails and angiosperms. By reconstructing archipelago configurations at various sea levels—present-day, intermediate (representative of the Pleistocene), and LGM—they found that intermediate configurations better explained single-island endemism patterns. This study underscores the importance of considering longer-term environmental stability in understanding ecological and evolutionary dynamics on islands.
Białowieża Forest
—
2018 —
WHED692E318A2
Extensive logging in Poland's Białowieża Forest, one of Europe's last primeval forests and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was ruled illegal by the European Court of Justice after years of controversy. The decision marked a significant milestone in protecting this unique ecosystem, which is home to rare species like the European bison and serves as a critical carbon sink. The study highlights the legal challenges and international scrutiny faced by conservation efforts in the face of industrial activities, underscoring the importance of strict regulatory frameworks to safeguard biodiversity and ecological integrity in such vulnerable regions.
Białowieża Forest
—
2018 —
WHE3EEB180AD3
A critical gap in logging data for the Białowieża Forest, Europe's last primeval forest, has been exposed. The study highlights the lack of transparency and reliable information regarding timber extraction, which is crucial for managing the forest's health amid a devastating spruce bark beetle outbreak. Researchers analyzed existing records but found them insufficient to assess the impact of logging on the ecosystem. This deficiency hampers effective conservation efforts and complicates emergency responses to pests like the Ips typographus, threatening the forest's biodiversity and ecological integrity.
Białowieża Forest
—
2018 —
WHE5144C86E23
A contentious debate over logging levels in Poland's Białowieża Forest has evolved beyond environmental priorities, becoming deeply intertwined with political and economic interests. The conflict, highlighted by Stokstad in 'Last stands' (2017), pits foresters advocating for increased logging against ecologists who prioritize conservation of this UNESCO-listed primeval beech forest. The study underscores the broader implications of such disputes, where scientific recommendations are often overshadowed by political and economic pressures, raising critical questions about sustainable management in globally significant ecosystems.
Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity
—
2018 —
WHE2CDCCC8587
Ilha Grande, Brazil, hosts the richest insular marine benthic flora documented on the Brazilian coast, with 256 phytobenthic taxa recorded. The study, a taxonomically updated floristic inventory and bibliographical summary, identifies Rhodophyta (156 taxa), Chlorophyta (51 taxa), and Ochrophyta (49 taxa) as the dominant divisions. Predominant orders include Ceramiales (red algae, 49%), Ectocarpales (brown algae, 29%), and Cladophorales (green algae, 45%). Notably, Ulva flexuosa subsp. flexuosa and Ulva fasciata (green algae) each account for 40% of occurrences, while Padina gymnospora (brown algae) and Gelidium sp. (red algae) are also highly frequent. The research synthesizes 26 studies from 1928 to 2016, categorizing surveys into taxonomical, inventory, and ecological studies across the island's buffer zone.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
—
2018 —
WHE97526AF6C9
A study on the Eastern Lagoon of New Caledonia (ELNC) reveals significant variability in bio-optical properties, with coastal stations dominated by non-algal particles and coloured dissolved organic matter due to allochthonous sources. The research found that existing ocean colour algorithms, including empirical and semi-analytical models, showed high biases in estimating chlorophyll a concentration (Chla), particularly at coastal sites. However, the GSM01 algorithm performed best for Chla retrievals with 35–40% relative percent differences when excluding these stations. Additionally, algorithms for detecting absorption slopes of coloured dissolved organic matter plus non-algal particles and particle backscattering coefficients showed reasonable accuracy (~18% and ~40% RPD, respectively). The study highlights the potential of satellite monitoring to track water quality in the ELNC, provided atmospheric correction is accurate, and suggests that regionally tuned algorithms could improve future Chla estimates. The findings underscore the need for better parameterization schemes to account for spatiotemporal variability in specific inherent optical properties.
Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture
—
2018 —
WHE1642F24988
A diachronic analysis of pathological conditions at Tumilaca la Chimba, Peru, reveals significant shifts in physiological stressors during the transition from the terminal Middle Horizon to the Late Intermediate Period (LIP). While cribra orbitalia, indicating childhood stress, was more prevalent in the earlier Tumilaca sample, oral decay increased in the later Estuquiña cemetery. These findings suggest that while sociopolitical transitions may have altered the causes of physiological stressors, they did not necessarily lead to their abatement. The study highlights the importance of bioarchaeological data in understanding local experiences during broader pre-Hispanic Andean transitions.
Ha Long Bay - Cat Ba Archipelago
—
2018 —
WHE3245DCA51A
Recent field surveys in Cat Ba National Park, Vietnam, have documented two previously unstudied bat species and their echolocation calls, adding to the park's rich biodiversity. Established in 1986, Cat Ba is a karst landscape with diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, mangroves, and caves, making it a critical site for conservation research. While significant progress has been made in studying and protecting its flora and fauna—including endemic species—many areas remain under-researched, particularly in the park's buffer zone, where unregulated ecotourism and development pose threats. This study highlights both the achievements and gaps in biodiversity conservation efforts, providing updated records to inform future strategies for habitat protection.
