Rock-Art Sites of Tadrart Acacus
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A study of the Takarkori rock shelter in Libya's Tadrart Acacus massif reveals that natural processes such as weathering, salt encrustation, and gnawing have created varied preservation conditions for mammal bones across different stratigraphic and chronological layers. This variability challenges assumptions about uniform taphonomic processes in arid environments, emphasizing the need for fine-scale analysis to distinguish between natural and anthropogenic influences on faunal remains. The research employs macroscopic, microscopic, and SEM-EDX analyses to systematically document bone surface modifications, providing a framework to improve interpretations of archaeological contexts in hyper-arid regions.
Tashkent Modernist Architecture. Modernity and Tradition in Central Asia
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Tashkent's modernist architecture exemplifies the dynamic fusion of global modernism with Central Asian heritage, showcasing how socialist and postcolonial ideologies reshaped urban landscapes. The study reveals that Tashkent served as a laboratory for architectural innovation in the 20th century, where European modernist principles were reinterpreted to integrate regional decorative elements, climate-responsive features, and cultural narratives. Through analysis of emblematic buildings, researchers trace Modernism's evolution from its European roots to localized adaptations, highlighting its role in advancing cultural identity and globalization. However, these architectural achievements face preservation challenges due to post-Soviet identity shifts and rapid urban development, underscoring the need for conservation efforts to safeguard this unique legacy.
Incense Route - Desert Cities in the Negev
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The Phase II excavations at Shiqmim, a Chalcolithic settlement center in the northern Negev Desert, Israel (1987–1993), reveal a complex farming community with extensive above-ground and subterranean architectural features. The study challenges previous classifications of Ghassulian society as a chiefdom, instead emphasizing detailed analyses of subsystems like production, distribution, and spatial organization. Radiocarbon dating suggests the site was abandoned by 3800 cal BCE, aligning with broader Chalcolithic chronology. The research uses stratigraphic, architectural, and radiocarbon methods to reconstruct social structures and settlement dynamics.
Socotra Archipelago
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Research on Socotra Island reveals that certain shrubs act as nurse species, significantly enhancing plant community resilience and biodiversity in arid environments. The study found that thorny, poisonous, or unpalatable shrubs like Cebatha balfourii, Lycium sokotranum, and Cissus species facilitate higher species richness under their canopies compared to open areas, offering shelter from grazing pressure and improving microhabitat conditions. These nurse shrubs play a crucial role in supporting threatened tree species, such as frankincense (Boswellia spp.) and myrrh (Commiphora spp.), which are vital to Socotra's unique ecosystems. The findings highlight the potential of leveraging nurse plants for ecological restoration and conservation strategies, particularly in degraded landscapes facing environmental stressors like overgrazing and climate extremes.
Dazu Rock Carvings
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The rock carvings at Baodingshan, Dazu, represent a significant advancement in Chinese Buddhist rock art and were likely designed as a ritual space for shuilu ceremonies, which involve the deliverance of creatures. This study proposes that the site's layout and carvings, including the Yuwen Qi verse and shared compositional characters, align with the historical practice of shuilu rites during the Song dynasty. By analyzing these elements alongside the gāthā (jie) of jiashi re tielun, the research offers a new framework for understanding Buddhist rituals in medieval China. This approach opens a novel avenue for studying ritualistic practices through rock carvings at UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Heard and McDonald Islands
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A significant contribution of lithogenic silicon (Si) from subantarctic volcanic islands, specifically Heard and McDonald Islands, has been identified as a major source of dissolved Si in the regional marine environment. This study reveals that the dissolution flux of lithogenic Si around these islands is among the highest globally, with an estimated specific flux of 3.7 ± 2.3 × 10^6 mol km^-2 yr^-1. The findings suggest that active volcanic activity and subglacial erosion on Heard Island are likely responsible for this high dissolution rate. The research utilized Si isotopic signatures to differentiate between dissolved and biogenic Si, demonstrating that lithogenic Si dissolution significantly impacts the regional marine silicon cycle and has traceable biogeochemical effects over the Northern Kerguelen Plateau.
White City of Tel-Aviv – the Modern Movement
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This study reveals how the preservation of Tel-Aviv's White City obscures its settler colonial origins and racialized history. By analyzing nomination documents, committee materials, and ethnographic data from preservationists, it demonstrates that narratives surrounding the site's significance erase the relationship between Israelis and Palestinians, reinforcing ontological boundaries through epistemological silences. The research exposes how Zionist national historiographies, modernist architectural discourse (e.g., DOCOMOMO), and UNESCO's technopolitical frameworks collectively edit out histories of colonialism and racial difference, thereby reshaping Israeli national history and the legacy of modernist architecture.
Silk Roads: Zarafshan-Karakum Corridor
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Enhanced transport connectivity and policy coordination under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) significantly boost tourism and visitor economies along the Silk Roads, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Zarafshan-Karakum Corridor. While these improvements increase arrivals, receipts, and itinerary diversity, they also intensify stewardship demands and risks such as environmental externalities and commodification. The study synthesizes institutional analyses and case signals from projects like the China–Laos Railway to highlight rapid demand growth alongside capacity pressures in fragile cultural sites. It advocates for rigorous governance standards, diversified markets, data-driven visitor management, and cross-border coordination to ensure inclusive, conservation-compatible growth. These findings align with UNESCO–ICOMOS guidance on sustainable tourism and community participation.
Papahānaumokuākea
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Passive environmental DNA samplers (PEDS) offer a cost-effective, scalable solution for marine biomonitoring, enabling rapid biodiversity assessment without specialized equipment. Unlike traditional eDNA methods requiring pumps or filtration systems, PEDS capture ambient DNA using cotton membranes during short field exposures (~15 minutes), simplifying deployment and retrieval. Validated at Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, this approach successfully detected <em>Chondria tumulosa</em>, a cryptogenic nuisance alga, supporting conservation efforts. The protocol minimizes contamination risks and optimizes DNA recovery, making it ideal for resource-limited programs. Its adaptability—suitable for both stationary buoys and roving surveys—expands its utility across aquatic ecosystems.
Huanglong Scenic and Historic Interest Area
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Research reveals that the deposition of calcium carbonate particles in Huanglong's colorful pools is significantly influenced by fluid boundary layers and low-velocity zones, particularly behind baffles. Under horizontal flow conditions, particle concentration peaked at 1.06%, with substantial aggregation and settling observed at the bottom right of the channel, where boundary layer effects are strongest. Inclined surfaces with baffles further enhanced deposition in low-speed regions, with calcium carbonate deposition rates ranging from 4.06 mm/a to 81.7 mm/a, closely aligning with field observations. The study employed Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) for real-time flow measurements and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, including the Discrete Phase Model (DPM), to track particle trajectories and deposition rates, providing critical insights into sedimentation dynamics in aquatic environments.
Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island
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A study on Amami-Oshima Island, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reveals that a balanced approach to ecotourism development—enhancing tourism benefits while conserving natural resources—yields the most effective outcomes. Using an optimized Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response-Management (DPSIRM) framework and System Dynamics (SD) modeling, researchers simulated various scenarios from 2010 to 2035. The Coordinated Development Model emerged as the optimal strategy, achieving a win-win balance between economic growth and ecological preservation. In contrast, models prioritizing either socioeconomic growth or strict ecological protection showed limitations, with the former lacking in service provision and the latter stifling tourism and economic activity. This research provides critical insights for policymakers, offering data-driven support for sustainable ecotourism planning.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
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A special issue of Curtis's Botanical Magazine highlights the Singapore Botanic Gardens, showcasing its impressive biodiversity, conservation efforts, and botanical artistry. The publication features the Suppression-release Technique, an innovative method for managing tropical tree seedlings, demonstrating its potential to advance horticultural practices. This technique, combined with active research and conservation initiatives, underscores the Gardens' role in preserving native flora. The issue also celebrates the flourishing state of fine botanical art in Singapore, thanks to workshops led by Masumi Yamanaka, a regular artist for the Magazine. Orchestrated by Michele Rodda and edited by Timothy Utteridge, this special part was made possible through the generosity of the Singapore Botanic Gardens and contributions from numerous staff and artists.
Surtsey
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Researchers have identified and monitored sinkholes and fissures along the outer margin of Vesturbunki, one of Surtsey’s tuff cones, revealing a dynamic subsurface process. These features, first observed in 2015, were traced over nearly 500 meters and showed variability in their presence across multiple field visits (2017, 2019, 2025). The study suggests that these sinkholes are likely driven by a combination of island-wide subsidence, local compaction of volcanogenic material, and possibly triggered by seismicity. Surface temperature monitoring between 2008 and 2025 indicated Vesturbunki is consistently hotter (up to 100°C) compared to Austurbunki (up to 96°C), with fluctuations linked to subsurface heat flow. Seismic data from 2009–2024 showed low to moderate activity, though hypocenter locations remain uncertain due to sparse station coverage. The findings underscore the need for continued monitoring and installation of a local seismic station on Surtsey to better understand these processes.
Jiuzhaigou Valley Scenic and Historic Interest Area
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A detailed re-description of the mayfly species Siphlonurus davidi, found exclusively in Jiuzhaigou Valley, Sichuan Province, China, challenges previous diagnostic criteria used to distinguish it from closely related species. The study examines 198 specimens (65 nymphs and 133 imagos) collected between 2013 and 2023, providing comprehensive morphological descriptions of both life stages. Key findings include the identification of consistent diagnostic features in nymphs—such as reddish-brown oblique stripes on abdominal sterna and posterolateral spines—and distinct color patterns in adult males and females. Notably, the research debunks three proposed diagnostic traits by Yang et al. (2023), demonstrating that sclerotization patterns of the penis lobes and spine development are similar across S. davidi, S. dongxi, and a newly described species, S. orientalis. This work clarifies taxonomic confusion in the genus Siphlonurus, offering critical insights for future biodiversity studies in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats
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A UNESCO-listed tidal flat on Korea's west coast exhibits a strong linear relationship (R² = 0.94) between turbidity and total suspended matter, validating optical sensors for real-time sediment monitoring in dynamic macrotidal environments. High-resolution observations over a 13-hour period revealed a net seaward suspended sediment flux of approximately 5503 kg·m⁻¹, with ebb-dominant residual currents indicating localized sediment transport patterns. While this single-station study provides a baseline for digital twin modeling and coastal management, its findings should be interpreted as time-specific rather than representative of the entire bay. The research contributes to the preservation and monitoring of Gomso Bay, part of the globally significant 'Getbol, Korean Tidal Flats' UNESCO site.
Sítio Roberto Burle Marx
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Research at Sítio Roberto Burle Marx reveals the anatomical basis for the aromatic properties of Zingiberaceae plants, which are widely used as seasonings and medicinal agents. The study identifies secretory idioblasts containing volatile substances in leaf blades of genera Alpinia, Zingiber, and Kaempferia, confirming their role in producing metabolites. Curcuma, Alpinia, and Zingiber were the most represented genera, with histological analysis showing hypostomatic leaves and silica crystals alongside aromatic cells. These findings contribute to understanding the plant family's widespread culinary and medicinal applications.
Sítio Roberto Burle Marx
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A project at Sítio Roberto Burle Marx demonstrates the effectiveness of integrating education and sustainability practices, yielding transformative learning experiences for students and visitors. Through a collaborative extension initiative, students from IFRJ developed and implemented educational activities that enhanced environmental awareness among participants. The approach combined theoretical discussions with practical experiments, focusing on themes like sustainability and conservation. Results indicated significant learning outcomes, reinforcing the role of education in fostering critical thinking about environmental issues within UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This model serves as a best-practice example for disseminating environmental education in protected areas.
Lower Valley of the Awash
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A comprehensive analysis of sediment transport in Ethiopia's major river basins reveals significant variations in sediment yield, with the Abbay headwater subbasins and Awash upper and middle subbasins exhibiting exceptionally high values (200–233 t/ha/year and 115.76–47.47 Mt/year, respectively), while the Rift-Valley Lakes basin shows much lower yields (1.9–13.69 Mt/year). These findings highlight critical challenges to water quality, ecosystem health, and climate resilience due to excessive sediment concentrations that often surpass standards for drinking, irrigation, and aquatic life. The study identifies gaps in monitoring and proposes strategic interventions, including enhanced monitoring systems, stakeholder coordination, legislation, and integration of international initiatives like UNESCO's International Sediment Initiative. This research provides actionable insights for restoring land and water resources, emphasizing the urgent need to address sediment pollution to safeguard vital infrastructure such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and Rift Valley Lakes.
Fortress of Suomenlinna
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Researchers have identified and described a new genus of cyanobacteria, <em>Sivoneniella epilithica</em>, from the epilithic habitats of Suomenlinna Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Finland. This discovery highlights the unexplored taxonomic diversity of terrestrial cyanobacteria inhabiting rock surfaces, which play a crucial role in ecological succession. Using a comprehensive polyphasic approach—including phylogenetic, genomic, and chemical analyses—the study established <em>Sivoneniella</em> as a distinct genus within the family Leptolyngbyaceae. The findings also revealed that these strains lack known cyanotoxins and exhibit no inhibitory effects on pathogenic bacteria or fungi, suggesting potential biotechnological applications. This work advances our understanding of cyanobacterial diversity in terrestrial ecosystems and underscores the significance of preserving such unique habitats.
Wadi Rum Protected Area
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A comparative analysis of three culturally significant Middle Eastern landscapes—Jabal Akhdar and Jabal Shams (Oman), Wadi Rum (Jordan), and AlUla (Saudi Arabia)—reveals that slow mobilities, characterized by low-velocity movement patterns, play a pivotal role in shaping heritage landscapes. The study demonstrates how these mobility dynamics influence geological processes, land use, and community spatial organization, thereby contributing to the preservation of both cultural and natural heritage. By integrating extensive field research with geomorphological analysis, the findings underscore the significance of these landscapes as living links between past, present, and future human-environment relationships. This work provides a framework for understanding how mobility patterns can inform conservation strategies in regions where geological and cultural evolution are intricately intertwined.
SGang Gwaay
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Long-term land-use changes on SGang Gwaay, Haida Gwaii, have significantly impacted aquatic ecosystems over ~1300 years. Research reveals that small-scale harvesting of western red cedar (Thuja plicata) beginning in the 13th century altered carbon inputs to a pond, shifting from terrestrial plant dominance to increased autochthonous sources post-1625 CE. Paleolimnological methods, including stable carbon isotopes and diatom analysis, demonstrate these changes correlated with village expansion and subsequent ecological shifts, such as increased water mixing and light availability. The study highlights the enduring effects of Indigenous land-use practices on both terrestrial and aquatic systems.
Monastery of Batalha
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Smart 3D-printed elements integrating sensor technologies offer a groundbreaking approach to the conservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Monastery of Batalha. This study demonstrates that 3D printing, when paired with materials like natural hydraulic lime (NHL) pastes and thermoplastics, can achieve high shape fidelity while maintaining compatibility with traditional structures. A comparative analysis revealed a trade-off between detailing precision and material authenticity, with NHL pastes showing promise for closer alignment to historical building practices. Innovatively, the incorporation of sensors enables real-time monitoring of environmental conditions and structural integrity, providing a scalable model for heritage conservation efforts worldwide.
Archaeological Site of Carthage
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Integrating smart technology into the design of tourist facilities at UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Carthage, can significantly enhance visitor experiences while preserving cultural heritage. This study demonstrates that blending traditional architectural elements with modern technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence creates interactive environments that deepen visitors' connections to local culture. Successful projects showcased in the research highlight how this approach not only supports sustainability but also boosts the appeal of tourist destinations, contributing to economic growth. The findings underscore the crucial role of space designers in merging aesthetics and functionality while collaborating with local communities to safeguard heritage for future generations.
Mbanza Kongo, Vestiges of the Capital of the former Kingdom of Kongo
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Research on so-called 'vernacular' architecture in the Kongo Central province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) reveals that despite historical accounts by European explorers like Duarte Lopez and Filippo Pigafetta, this architectural tradition remains understudied. The study focuses on Boko and Langa villages in Mbanza-Ngungu, analyzing construction practices from 1921 to the mid-21st century. It highlights the transition in materials—from traditional methods to cement production post-1921—and explores enduring elements of Kongo architecture amid colonization and tradition. The research combines historical literature with on-the-ground observations to document spatial organizations and constructive details, offering insights into the dynamics of architectural production in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Historic Centre of Shakhrisyabz
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Historical urban centers often undergo significant transformations due to political and economic pressures. A study of Shakhrisyabz, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals that during the Soviet era (1930-80s), the city's economic infrastructure experienced contradictory changes, primarily driven by centralized industrialization policies imposed by the former Soviet government. These policies, characterized by administrative directives and unrealistic task assignments, led to Shakhrisyabz being reduced to a role of producing primary goods or raw materials, despite a shortage of specialized personnel. The research highlights how such top-down approaches can hinder sustainable urban development and cultural preservation in heritage sites.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
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A rare glimpse into the vanished chapel of San Bernardo, once part of the convent of San Diego del Monte in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, is preserved through historical analysis. Founded in 1677 by priest Bernardo Martín de Fleitas and later gifted to the Counts of Valle de Salazar, the chapel was abandoned after the convent's closure, leaving only fragmentary remains. This study reconstructs its history, examining surviving elements and documenting its transformation under the second count’s revitalization efforts. By analyzing archival records and physical remnants, researchers uncover the chapel’s architectural significance and cultural legacy within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Laguna.
Saloum Delta
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A financially sustainable oyster farming model for the Saloum Delta, Senegal, demonstrates that poverty alleviation among women farmers is achievable through integrated suspended cultivation of <em>Magallana gigas</em> and <em>Crassostrea tulipa</em>. The model, evaluated using a Social Enterprise Model Canvas and economic-financial analysis (5% discount rate), requires an initial investment of €572,000 but generates 26 direct jobs with positive cash flow. Profitability hinges on diversified marketing—combining live oysters and dried meat—while exclusive dried meat production proves unviable. This replicable approach aligns with Senegalese aquaculture development goals, offering a scalable solution for poverty reduction while ensuring financial viability under the zero NPV criterion.
Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands
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Beluga whales summering off the Solovetsky Islands (White Sea, Russia) do not form stable social clusters with consistent individual compositions, according to a study using photo-identification data. While no long-term groupings were identified, some pairs—often including females—showed high association indices, though these declined over the study period. The research suggests that beluga social dynamics may be influenced by both intrinsic relationships and individual behaviors, such as varied visiting patterns to the gathering area. Conducted in July–August 2022, the study analyzed sightings of 122 individuals near Cape Beluzhy using SOCPROG 2.9 software, highlighting the complexity of beluga social organization and the challenges in distinguishing between behavioral and environmental factors.
Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands
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Belugas (Delphinapterus leucas) summering off the Solovetsky Islands, Russia, do not form stable social clusters with consistent individual compositions during reproductive gatherings. While some pairs—often including females—showed strong associations, these were not sustained over time, suggesting fluid social dynamics influenced by both behavioral and environmental factors. The study used photo-identification data from 122 individuals observed in July–August 2022, analyzed with SOCPROG 2.9 to assess association indices. Findings highlight the challenges in distinguishing natural social behavior from individual movement patterns, leaving questions about broader social structures outside the study area and timeframe unanswered.
Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park
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Stricter protection in the Strictly Protected Area of Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park significantly enhances fish densities (35.7 CPUE) and coral health while reducing pollution, compared to the Sustainable Fishing Area and Buffer Zone. This finding, supported by ANOVA tests (p < 0.05), underscores the effectiveness of stringent conservation measures in preserving biodiversity and minimizing environmental degradation. The study integrates ecological data with social factors—such as livelihood strategies and governance—to identify key leverage points for sustainable management. It advocates for combining scientific data with local knowledge to develop policies that balance human well-being with wildlife conservation, offering a blueprint for place-based solutions in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kahuzi-Biega National Park
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The creation of Kahuzi-Biega National Park and Itombwe Nature Reserve has significantly impacted the socio-economic well-being of riparian populations, primarily through negative effects on traditional household activities such as agriculture, hunting, firewood exploitation, and non-timber forest product collection. Key challenges include declining soil fertility, reduced agricultural yields, resource scarcity, and increased human-wildlife conflicts. The study underscores the need for inclusive conservation strategies that engage local populations to mitigate these adverse impacts.
Ellora Caves
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Ellora Caves' wall paintings, including the Sohrai art of the Santal people, reveal the enduring legacy of artistic expression that spans from prehistoric cave art to modern tribal traditions. The study highlights how the Santali community in the Rarh region maintains this tradition through vibrant geometric patterns and paintings during their Bandna or Sohrai festivals, demonstrating a cultural continuity despite societal evolution. This research underscores the significance of wall painting as both an artistic and cultural practice, bridging ancient cave art traditions with contemporary indigenous expressions.
Mount Wuyi
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Soil heavy metal (HM) contamination poses significant ecological risks in Mount Wuyi, a UNESCO biodiversity hotspot and major tea production area. Research reveals that Cr, Cd, and Pb exhibit notable pollution levels, with Cd and Hg presenting the highest ecological hazards. Vegetation types play a crucial role in HM accumulation; cultivated areas and shrublands, such as tea gardens, show higher concentrations of Cu, Cd, Pb, and Hg due to agricultural and transportation activities, while bamboo forests demonstrate natural resistance to contamination. Geochemical indices and Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) modeling identified four primary pollution sources: urbanization (27.94%), transport–agriculture activities (21.40%), agricultural practices (12.98%), and atmospheric deposition (12.96%). These findings highlight the urgent need for clean energy solutions, phytoremediation strategies, and tea-specific detoxification measures to ensure ecological security and sustainable agriculture in this critical region.
Kilimanjaro National Park
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A study on Kilimanjaro National Park reveals that soil seed banks in lower montane forests invaded by alien species are rich in non-woody and a few woody species, with the highest density found in areas dominated by Pinus patula. The research, comparing five sites—four invaded by distinct invasive species (Acacia mearnsii, Cupressus lusitanica, Eucalyptus spp., and P. patula) and one natural forest—used a seedling emergence method to assess seed density across three soil depth classes. Findings indicate that topsoil (1–5 cm) harbors significantly more seeds than deeper layers, while invasive species like A. mearnsii, P. patula, Grevillea robusta, and Poa annua dominate the seed bank. This suggests that forest restoration efforts must consider both persistent soil seed banks and external dispersal mechanisms alongside reforestation techniques.
Historic Centre of Shakhrisyabz
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Research on the 'j'-shaped dialects in Shakhrisyabz reveals notable preservation of linguistic features despite historical shifts. The study compares current dialect characteristics with those documented in prior centuries, highlighting enduring phonetic and morphological traits unique to the region. By analyzing archival data and contemporary speech samples, the research identifies key markers distinguishing Shakhrisyabz's dialect from broader Uzbek linguistic trends. This approach provides insights into the resilience of local dialects amid cultural and demographic changes, contributing to the understanding of linguistic evolution in Central Asia.
Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan
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Kazakhstan's legal framework for protecting historical and cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi and the Saryarka steppe, is grounded in a system that recognizes such objects as both real estate and valuable artifacts tied to land. The study identifies three key aspects: their intrinsic link to land, their historical development, and their multifaceted cultural significance spanning archaeology, architecture, and ethnology. Through a large-scale inventory of 11,277 local monuments, the country has established comprehensive legal norms for rational use and protection, reflecting its commitment to preserving heritage as a state priority.
Messel Pit Fossil Site
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Researchers have uncovered the first fossil evidence of singing cicadas from the Eocene epoch, specifically identifying a new genus and species, <em>Eoplatypleura messelensis</em>, within the tribe Platypleurini. This discovery at the Messel Pit in Germany not only represents one of the earliest known fossil records of crown-group Cicadidae in Eurasia but also the oldest confirmed record of the subfamily Cicadinae globally. The findings significantly enrich our understanding of cicada diversity during the Eocene and provide a crucial calibration point for molecular phylogenetic studies, shedding light on the origins and dispersal patterns of this insect group. Analysis of existing records further suggests that Cicadidae was once widely distributed across Europe during the Cenozoic era.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
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A study near Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia, reveals distinct seasonal variations in airborne organic compounds, with PM 10 concentrations higher in summer despite typical European winter heating practices. Anhydrosugars dominated carbohydrate levels year-round, while polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) peaked seasonally, with benzo(b)fluoranthene highest in spring and winter. Multi-statistical analyses identified mixed sources in spring—traffic, domestic heating, biomass burning, and biogenic emissions—as well as seasonal shifts in dominance, such as traffic and biogenic sources in autumn and domestic heating in winter. The annual average of benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) fell below EU safety thresholds, underscoring regional air quality variations linked to human and natural activities.
Rock Paintings of Shulgan-Tash Cave
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A comprehensive review highlights the significant archaeological contributions of Dr. V.V. Ovsyannikov, Head of the Department for Archaeological Research at the Institute of History, Language and Literature under RAS Ufa Research Center, over four decades. His innovative approach has yielded substantial research results despite limited resources, particularly in the study of the Rock Paintings of Shulgan-Tash Cave. The review emphasizes his leadership in projects spanning the Early Iron Age to modern times, including the development of Toratau Geopark and surveys in the Southern Transurals mountain steppe. Ovsyannikov's focus on military and armaments of the Urals forest steppe people, as well as his work on Golden Horde monuments, underscores his broad expertise and dedication to archaeological research.
Archaeological Site of Atapuerca
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A reindeer (Rangifer) tooth from the Atapuerca site, Spain, provides the southernmost Eurasian record of glacial fauna during Marine Isotope Stage 8 (~300–243 ka), predating previous evidence by ~100,000 years. This discovery challenges assumptions about the timing and intensity of glacial conditions in the Iberian Peninsula, suggesting that cold-adapted ecosystems expanded earlier and more extensively than previously believed. The fossil's morphological analysis, alongside archaeological context—including human fossils and lithic artifacts from Units GII and GIII—reveals that early humans coexisted with these species during colder climates. This study advances understanding of biogeographical patterns in Pleistocene glacial fauna and human adaptability across climatic cycles.
West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou
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Linguistic landscapes in West Lake, Hangzhou, China, reflect a dynamic blend of classical and modern elements, shaping immersive tourist spaces. The study found that Chinese language dominance integrates traditional and contemporary features, while bilingual/multilingual signs create a globalized environment. Digital signs foster a dialogical space, whereas legend signs evoke cultural romance, and environmental information constructs an ecological harmony between humans and nature. These combined elements—classical, modern, cultural, dialogical, and ecological—enhance tourist experiences. The research urges local authorities to prioritize language service competence to improve comfort and atmosphere for visitors. This work advances the understanding of linguistic landscapes in tourism space-making.
Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems
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Researchers have identified two new species of spaghetti worms, <em>Loimia poraporaensis</em> and <em>L. aimehoensis</em>, from the lagoons of Bora-Bora and Moorea (Society Islands, French Polynesia). These species exhibit distinct morphological traits, such as large lateral lobes and banded buccal tentacles, which differentiate them from other known Pacific coral reef worms. The study also extends the known range of <em>L. tuberculata</em>, previously documented only in Australia and Papua New Guinea, to include New Caledonia. Using molecular analysis (COI and 16S genes) alongside morphological comparisons, the team constructed phylogenetic trees and provided an identification key for these species. Their findings highlight the biodiversity of UNESCO-listed lagoons while emphasizing the importance of coral associations in their habitats.
Hill Forts of Rajasthan
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A spatial analysis of the Vagad Circuit in Rajasthan, India, reveals that its unique blend of natural landscapes—rolling green hills, dense forests, valleys, and lakes—alongside historical palaces, temples, and forts, makes it a significant yet understudied tourist destination. This study highlights the circuit's potential for sustainable tourism while emphasizing the urgent need to conserve its cultural heritage, which is threatened by visitation pressures. The research employs secondary data analysis to assess tourist patterns and spatial distribution, providing actionable insights for heritage preservation and tourism planning in this UNESCO-recognized region.
Hubei Shennongjia
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Hubei Province's carbon emission efficiency has shown significant spatial and temporal differentiation, with a rapid increase after initial fluctuations. The study found that green technological innovation positively correlates with improved carbon emission efficiency, while economic expansion and population density also show positive relationships, whereas industrial structure and government environmental regulations negatively impact efficiency. Notably, the Wuhan metropolitan area and the Xiang-yang-Shiyan-Suizhou-Shennongjia urban region exhibit distinct differences, while the Yichang-Jingzhou-Jing-Enshi urban agglomeration shows a narrowing trend in differentiation. The research also highlights a temporal lag between green technological innovation and its impact on carbon emission efficiency, with capital investment and technical achievements currently enhancing efficiency, while human capital has a positive effect during a second lag period.
Bolgar Historical and Archaeological Complex
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2025 —
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Research identifies 103 isolated bays within the Tetyushsky reach of the Kuibyshev Reservoir, covering 246 hectares and primarily located on left-bank islands formed after reservoir flooding. These detached bays, classified as 'small water bodies,' exhibit predominantly oval or near-circular shapes with slightly indented shorelines. A notable trend toward reduction in water surface area was observed, particularly for bays not connected to the main water body during flood periods. The study leverages satellite imagery from Google Earth Engine and Sentinel-2, combined with field research data from 2024, analyzed using QGIS software at a normal water level of 52.7 m BS. Significantly, these findings are situated within the 'Spassky' Biosphere Reserve and the buffer zone of the UNESCO World Heritage Site – historical and archaeological complex of Bolgar, underscoring their ecological and cultural importance.
Niokolo-Koba National Park
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2025 —
WHECEF685618F
A high-performance spatial model reveals that the core habitat for lions in Niokolo-Koba National Park (NKNP), Senegal, is concentrated in the park's central region. This distribution is primarily shaped by elevation, annual precipitation, prey availability, and human pressures such as poaching and livestock grazing. The model achieved an exceptional accuracy (AUC of 0.96), highlighting critical factors that influence lion habitat selection. By integrating satellite-derived data like NDVI with land cover types and proximity to water bodies, researchers identified key environmental variables that support lion populations while also pinpointing areas vulnerable to human encroachment. These findings underscore the importance of targeted conservation strategies to protect lions by mitigating poaching and livestock pressure while preserving prey populations.
Salonga National Park
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2025 —
WHE94F61A8642
Weyns's duikers (Cephalophus weynsi) in Salonga National Park exhibit stable core home ranges averaging 29.38 hectares, with dynamic boundaries influenced by breeding status and anthropogenic disturbances. A study using GPS/VHF collars revealed that breeding pairs overlap significantly (72.8%), maintaining close proximity (~288 m), while non-breeding individuals show minimal overlap (4.5–52.2%) and greater spacing (~533 m). The research, employing both day net captures and night torch captures, highlights the species' spatial behavior as critical to its reproductive success and conservation, emphasizing the need for further study on forest ungulate ecology in Central Africa.
Historic Quarter of the City of Colonia del Sacramento
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2025 —
WHE664D55F603
Uruguay's decentralized spatial planning framework, established by the Land Use Planning and Sustainable Development Law of 2008, shows mixed success across its departments. A case study of Colonia del Sacramento reveals that while guidelines like the 2013 Departmental Guidelines and the 2018 Management Plan for the Historic Quarter effectively regulate urban growth and protect UNESCO-listed heritage, the prolonged delay in approving a Local Plan since 2011 has left land-use decisions vulnerable to private negotiations. This highlights the need for streamlined governance to balance heritage preservation with development pressures.
The Grand Canal
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2025 —
WHE38A211BA17
Between 2013 and 2023, landscape patterns along the Grand Canal—designated as both a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site and an ecological corridor—showed increased agglomeration and regularity, yet ecological quality slightly declined. The study applied a gradient analysis framework integrating Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) with landscape pattern indices to assess ecological responses across eight canal sections using equidistant buffer zones. Multi-scale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) revealed that the effects of patch density and Shannon’s Diversity Index on ecological quality varied significantly by urbanization level: positively correlated in highly urbanized areas like the Tonghui River, but negatively correlated in less urbanized regions such as the Huitong River. Additionally, these correlations weakened with increasing buffer distance from the canal. This research provides critical insights for balancing ecological protection and spatial planning along major inland waterways.
West Lake Cultural Landscape of Hangzhou
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2025 —
WHE8820519489
Rapid urbanization in Hangzhou's rural areas has significantly altered landscape patterns, leading to fragmentation and habitat degradation that negatively impact ecosystem services. The study reveals that woodland and grassland positively influence ecosystem services such as food production, water yield, carbon sequestration, and cultural services, while arable land, residential, and construction areas have detrimental effects. Notably, slope degree shows a strong positive correlation with ecosystem service provision, followed by indicators like total landscape area and edge density. The research employs advanced spatial models (InVEST, Fragstats, OLS, GWR, MGWR) to analyze these relationships, offering actionable recommendations for optimizing rural landscape management. These include promoting high-level farmland protection, enhancing landscape connectivity through woodland restoration, and integrating 'agriculture+' and 'ecology+' models to balance ecological and economic benefits.
