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A multifaceted use of remote sensing data for mapping vegetation of island ecosystems (example of Bolshoy Solovetsky island)

Cultural and Historic Ensemble of the Solovetsky Islands — 2016 — WHEFA8801A48B

Remote sensing data offers a powerful tool for mapping and monitoring the fragile vegetation of island ecosystems, particularly under increasing anthropogenic pressure. A high-resolution study on Bolshoy Solovetsky Island, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, demonstrates that integrating field surveys with laboratory analysis and remote sensing can effectively capture vegetation patterns in polar environments. This approach provides critical insights for conservation efforts, balancing methodological rigor with practical applications to support sustainable management.

A Mystery. the Disappearance of Mohenjo-Daro

Archaeological Ruins at Moenjodaro — 2016 — WHE795918C20C

Archaeological excavations at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Moenjodaro revealed a highly advanced urban civilization beneath centuries of sand, challenging conventional narratives about ancient technological development. The discovery of sophisticated city planning and infrastructure suggests a level of sophistication previously underappreciated in the Indus Valley Civilization. This study explores multiple hypotheses to explain the city's disappearance, including environmental shifts, societal collapse, or external influences, providing insights into the resilience and vulnerabilities of early complex societies.

A new approach in the monitoring of the phytosanitary conditions of forests: the case of oak and beech stands in the Sicilian Regional Parks

Mount Etna — 2016 — WHE07762E5921

A new monitoring approach revealed severe decline symptoms in oak stands (85% symptomatic) and mixed conditions in beech stands across three Sicilian Regional Parks, with Nebrodi Park showing significant decline. Fungal pathogens were identified on both species, including Biscogniauxia mediterranea and Armillaria sp. for oaks, and Biscogniauxia nummularia and Neonectria radicicola for beeches. The study used a synthetic phytosanitary index (PC) to assess tree health in 81 sampling areas, with 22 designated as permanent for long-term monitoring.

A new cichlid fish in the Sahara: The Ounianga Serir lakes (Chad), a biodiversity hotspot in the desert

Lakes of Ounianga — 2016 — WHE26C0EC3BF4

A previously undescribed cichlid fish, Astatotilapia tchadensis, has been discovered in Lake Boukou, part of the Ounianga Serir lakes in Chad, a UNESCO-listed desert landscape. This new species, characterized by distinctive features such as black bars, orange spots on its anal fin, and unique pharyngeal dentition, highlights the remarkable biodiversity of these lakes, which are sustained by subsurface groundwater inflow. The discovery underscores the Ounianga Serir lakes as a critical hotspot for vertebrate diversity in one of the world's most arid regions, with at least six fish species belonging to three families thriving in this extreme environment.

A new large species of Bitis Gray, 1842 (Serpentes: Viperidae) from the Bale Mountains of Ethiopia

Bale Mountains National Park — 2016 — WHEF7B22A1BE2

Scientists have identified a new species of viper, Bitis harenna, within the Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia. This discovery was made through analysis of a single museum specimen and live observations, distinguishing it from other members of its subgenus by unique color patterns, scalation differences, and head proportions. The study also clarifies systematic characters and provides a revised key to Ethiopian Bitis species, enhancing our understanding of viper biodiversity in the region.

A new species of Apterichtus (Anguilliformes: Ophichthidae) from the Marquesas Islands

Te Henua Enata – The Marquesas Islands — 2016 — WHE635A5DAEC3

Researchers have identified a new species of finless ophichthid eel, Apterichtus succinus sp. nov., from the Marquesas Islands, part of Te Henua Enata UNESCO World Heritage Site. This discovery was based on a single specimen and distinguishes A. succinus through several key morphological traits: it has more preopercular pores (4 vs. 3), fewer preanal vertebrae (54 vs. 56-63), a single tooth on the prevomer (generally absent in related species), a shorter head, and larger spots on its head and nape. The new species closely resembles A. klazingai but differs significantly in these characteristics. This brings the total recognized Apterichtus species from the Marquesas Islands to three: A. succinus, A. klazingai, and A. mysi.

A new species of Hydrobiomorpha from iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae)

iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park — 2016 — WHEFE2071D354

Researchers have identified a new species of the genus Hydrobiomorpha within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa. This discovery, published in Acta Entomologica Musei Nationalis Pragae, highlights the biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and contributes to our understanding of aquatic beetle diversity in the region. The study employed morphological analysis to distinguish this species from related taxa, emphasizing the importance of detailed taxonomic research in conserving and studying unique biological entities.

A new species of Phosocephala Townsend, 1908 (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica

Area de Conservación Guanacaste — 2016 — WHE98022A4F82

Researchers have identified a new species of Phosocephala fly, Phosocephala alexanderi, within the Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. This discovery, authored by Fleming and Wood, was made through a combination of morphological analysis, life history observations, and molecular data. Additionally, the study provides the first description of the male Phosocephala metallica species, previously unknown. Both species were reared from wild-caught Lepidoptera larvae, highlighting their ecological significance in the ACG ecosystem.

A new species of Pristimantis (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae) from the foothills of the Andes in Manu National Park, southeastern Peru

Manú National Park — 2016 — WHEB26D7F692E

Scientists have identified a new species of Pristimantis frog, Pristimantis pluvialis, in the humid sub-montane forests near Manu National Park, Peru. This discovery was made through detailed morphological and acoustic analysis, distinguishing it from similar species by its unique rostral tubercle, smooth dorsal skin, and advertisement call. The new species, found at elevations of 740 to 1110 meters, differs from Pristimantis lacrimosus and Pristimantis waoranii in size, call frequency, and dorsal coloration. It also contrasts with Pristimantis mendax and Pristimantis olivaceus due to its lack of a sigmoid inner tarsal fold and shagreen skin, respectively. Male specimens measure 21.8–26.9 mm in snout-vent length, while the single female measured 28.8 mm.

A new species of Psychrophrynella (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae) from the humid montane forests of Cusco, eastern slopes of the Peruvian Andes

City of Cuzco — 2016 — WHE6D50501A57

Researchers have identified a new species of the frog genus Psychrophrynella in the humid montane forests of Cusco, Peru. This discovery, described from specimens collected between 2,670 and 3,165 meters elevation near Japu, distinguishes the species through unique morphological traits—such as a tarsal tubercle and yellow ventral coloration—and a multi-note advertisement call, setting it apart from related species like P. bagrecito and P. usurpator. The frog exhibits a snout-vent length of 16.1–24.1 mm in males and 23.3–27.7 mm in females, aligning with the genus's high-altitude Andean distribution pattern. Like other recently described Psychrophrynella species, this find likely reflects a restricted geographic range, underscoring the region's biodiversity significance.

A new species of Syrrhopodon (Calymperaceae) from Sarawak

Gunung Mulu National Park — 2016 — WHECE7688DF0F

A new species of the moss genus Syrrhopodon (Calymperaceae) has been identified from limestone mountains in Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak. The discovery was based on a small series of specimens collected by J.M. Camus and previously reported by Ellis (1991). This robust, higher-altitude species adds to the biodiversity of the region's bryophyte flora. The study highlights the importance of thorough taxonomic examination in revealing cryptic diversity within mosses, particularly in ecologically significant areas like Gunung Mulu National Park.

A New Species ofPristimantis(Amphibia: Strabomantidae) from the Cloud Forest of Sangay National Park, Ecuador

Sangay National Park — 2016 — WHE26E2C06831

Researchers have identified a new species of frog, Pristimantis tinguichaca, within the cloud forests of Sangay National Park, Ecuador. This discovery belongs to the Pristimantis unistrigatus group and is distinguished by unique morphological traits such as small conical tubercles on its upper eyelids and heels, along with a reddish iris. The species also exhibits distinct ulnar and tarsal tubercles and produces a single, sharp metallic call. Stomach content analysis revealed that its diet primarily consists of beetles (51.7%). The study highlights the biodiversity of Sangay National Park and contributes to the understanding of amphibian diversity in Andean cloud forests.

A numerical model for the entire Wadden Sea: Skill assessment and analysis of hydrodynamics

Wadden Sea — 2016 — WHE7316CA1854

A numerical model of the Wadden Sea reveals that estuarine circulation intensity and its variability are driven by gravitational and wind straining, with regional differences observed among tidal gullies. The study assesses the model's accuracy using field data from 2009–2011, including surface elevation, current velocity, temperature, and salinity, alongside satellite imagery and ship observations. Key findings highlight that longitudinal buoyancy gradients dominate exchange flow in some inlets, while wind straining is more influential in others. The research also quantifies tidal straining, which varies based on local topography, wind direction, and freshwater runoff, providing insights into the complex hydrodynamics of this UNESCO-listed ecosystem.

A Perlmutter-gyűjtemény

Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue — 2016 — WHE6ECF3C76EE

Alfréd Perlmutter's eclectic art collection, blending Eastern and Western influences, showcases his unique aesthetic sensibility that transcended historical periods. The study reveals how Perlmutter's refined taste, inspired by international travels and exposure to elite collections, resulted in a harmonious fusion of Chinese ceramics, Flemish tapestries, and Renaissance Italian works. However, the collection suffered significant losses during World War II due to forced sales, expropriations, and displacement, with only a fraction surviving in museum holdings or private hands. The research highlights the fragility of private art collections in times of political upheaval, emphasizing the irreversible impact of historical events on cultural heritage.

A pesca artesanal na Cidade Velha num contexto de patrimonialização do espaço

Cidade Velha, Historic Centre of Ribeira Grande — 2016 — WHE64C6A997A4

Artisanal fishing in Cidade Velha, Cabo Verde, persists as the predominant livelihood activity despite the city's UNESCO World Heritage status. This study reveals that local fishermen employ simple yet effective strategies to navigate dual constraints—environmental regulations and heritage preservation—ensuring the continuity of their traditional practice. By analyzing the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and sustainable resource use, researchers highlight how communities adapt to patrimonialization without compromising their economic foundation. The findings underscore the resilience of artisanal fishing as both a cultural pillar and an adaptive survival tactic in heritage-protected urban spaces.

A Preliminary Study on Calculating Eruptive Volumes of Monogenetic Volcanoes and Volcanic Hazard Evaluation in Jeju Island

Jeju Volcanic Island and Lava Tubes — 2016 — WHEC2AC517A2C

A preliminary study on Jeju Island's volcanic activity reveals significant eruptive volumes for three monogenetic volcanoes: Songak-san, Bi-yang-do, and Ilchul-bong. Using a model adapted from New Zealand's Auckland volcanic region, researchers calculated their eruption volumes at approximately 24.99 million m³, 9.65 million m³, and 10.37 million m³, respectively. These findings provide critical data for assessing volcanic hazards on Jeju Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique volcanic landscapes. The study highlights the importance of precise volume calculations in understanding past eruptions and mitigating future risks.

A procedure for the quantification of total iodine by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and its application to the determination of iodine in algae sampled in the lagoon of Venice

Venice and its Lagoon — 2016 — WHE248F163837

A novel procedure using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was successfully developed to quantify total iodine levels, offering a precise method for biomonitoring. Applied to seaweeds from Venice's lagoon, the technique revealed significant iodine concentrations in these marine organisms, providing critical data on environmental iodine distribution and potential ecological impacts. The study highlights ICP-MS as a reliable tool for trace element analysis in complex matrices, with implications for monitoring water quality and biological health in coastal ecosystems.

A project proposal for the construction of underwater archaeological nature routes into the Protected Marine Area of Santa Maria di Castellabate

Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula — 2016 — WHE3B388A7FEC

Underwater archaeological routes proposed for the Protected Marine Area of Santa Maria di Castellabate aim to integrate natural and historical heritage, revealing a rich underwater landscape with Roman-era shipwrecks and WWII relics amid seagrass meadows. The project seeks to promote sustainable tourism by showcasing coastal quarries, a Roman harbor, and remnants of maritime villas with ancient aquaculture systems. This approach offers a novel way to preserve and present archaeological heritage while enhancing public engagement with both terrestrial and submerged cultural landmarks.

A Record of Fairy Pitta Pitta nympha on Amami-Oshima Island, Kagoshima, Southwestern Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2016 — WHE8824AFE9A2

Scientists captured the first documented images of a Fairy Pitta (Pitta nympha) on Amami-Oshima Island, Japan, using camera traps. The bird was recorded twice within 12 seconds at 6:35 PM on May 18, 2015, marking the species' first confirmed presence on the island. This discovery expands the known distribution of the Fairy Pitta, a small, colorful songbird native to Southeast Asia and the Sunda Islands. The study relied on camera trapping—a non-invasive method for documenting wildlife—highlighting its utility in recording rare or elusive species in their natural habitats.

A renewed archaeological and archaeobotanical assessment of house sites at Kuk Swamp in the highlands of Papua New Guinea

Kuk Early Agricultural Site — 2016 — WHE038956C1EE

A renewed analysis of archaeological and archaeobotanical remains from Kuk Swamp, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Papua New Guinea, reveals the presence of domesticated plants such as sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum) and probable sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), pushing back the timeline of early agriculture in the region. The study utilized direct accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) dating on macrobotanical remains, distinguishing at least two distinct periods of settlement. This research provides a more reliable taxonomic identification of plant remains, offering significant insights into the origins and development of agricultural practices in the highlands of Papua New Guinea.