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Dissolved gases in hydrothermal (phreatic) and geyser eruptions at Yellowstone National Park, USA

Yellowstone National Park — 2016 — WHEC70DB780CA

A study on dissolved gases in Yellowstone National Park's hydrothermal and geyser eruptions reveals that carbon dioxide (CO2) from magma and nitrogen (N2) from air-saturated meteoric water significantly lower the near-surface saturation temperature of aqueous fluids. This modulation enhances the explosivity potential of phreatic eruptions and influences geyser dynamics. Researchers collected pressurized samples from research well Y-7 and thermal pools in the Upper Geyser Basin, analyzing gas concentrations and temperatures at depth. Thermodynamic calculations suggest that high concentrations of these gases can trigger hydrothermal eruptions when recharged into shallow reservoirs. Monitoring changes in gas emission rates and composition could provide critical insights into both the natural resources (geysers) and potential hazards (eruptions) in such areas.

Dissonant heritage and promotion of tourism in the case of Serbian medieval monuments in Kosovo

Medieval Monuments in Kosovo — 2016 — WHEE7E7C10229

Serbian medieval monuments in Kosovo, recognized for their historical value and four of which are on UNESCO's endangered sites list, face complex challenges as dissonant heritage. These monuments, while symbolizing Serbian identity, are viewed with distaste by the Albanian population due to their association with centuries of Serbian presence in the region. The study reveals that popular tourist publications often distort interpretations or alienate historical identities, contributing to tensions rather than fostering mutual understanding. By analyzing media representations, this research highlights the dual role of these monuments as both cultural symbols and potential tools for tourism promotion, emphasizing the need for balanced narratives that acknowledge their significance without perpetuating divisions.

Distal Volcanic Ash Deposition as a Cause for Mass Kills of Marine Invertebrates During the Miocene in Northern Patagonia, Argentina

Península Valdés — 2016 — WHE195C5230F7

A catastrophic mass mortality event of marine invertebrates, including decapod crustaceans and bivalve mollusks, during the middle Miocene (Tortonian) in northern Patagonia, Argentina, was linked to distal volcanic ash deposition. Despite being at least 650 km away from the Andean volcanic front, the fine volcanic ash introduced into shallow marine environments caused acute respiratory failure in crustaceans, leading to widespread fatalities. The study analyzed sediments and fossils from five localities within the Puerto Madryn Formation using advanced geochemical methods such as SEM, EDS, XRD, petrographic microscopy, and reflected light microscopy, revealing uniform high percentages of volcanic ash across all sites.

Distance-decay effect in stone tool transport by wild chimpanzees

Taï National Park — 2016 — WHE6F5EA09D6B

Research on chimpanzees in Taï National Park, Ivory Coast, reveals a 'distance-decay effect' in stone tool transport, where the weight of hammerstones decreases with distance from raw material sources over ranges exceeding 2 km. This pattern emerges despite short-term tool transport appearing undirected and lacking deliberate movements away from sources. The study analyzed millennia-old tool sites, including Noulo, demonstrating consistency between modern and ancient behaviors. These findings suggest that chimpanzees' complex short-term planning can produce landscape-wide patterns over long periods, offering insights into similar processes in other stone-tool-using primates, including hominins.

Distribución Potencial de la Jagüilla (Tayassu pecari) en Honduras

Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve — 2016 — WHE1E0F965D0B

A significant decline of the jaguar (Tayassu pecari) population in Honduras, with 81.2% habitat loss since 1900, has been quantified using potential distribution modeling. The study predicts that only 6,126 km² remains as suitable habitat, predominantly within the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve (70%), indigenous territories (20%), and the Tawahka Asagni Biosphere Reserve (10%). The research utilized MaxEnt 3.3.3a with 16 presence records and 19 bioclimatic variables to map this distribution, highlighting critical areas for conservation. Land-use change, habitat fragmentation, and hunting are identified as primary threats. Urgent conservation measures are recommended due to the species' vital role in seed dispersal and supporting top predator populations, essential for sustaining primary forests in the Moskitia region.

Distribution and a comparative analysis of the aquatic invertebrate fauna in caves of the western Caucasus

Western Caucasus — 2016 — WHE58D64EE462

Aquatic invertebrate fauna in nine caves of central Abkhazia, western Caucasus, revealed 35 stygobiont species, including 15 new ones. Species richness and abundance peaked near cave entrances due to amphibiotic insects and in deeper areas due to stygobionts. Stygobiotic faunas were distinctly divided by river valleys, with caves within the same valley sharing 50% similarity, while those in different valleys shared only 12%. Profound local endemism was observed in stygobiotic shrimps and gastropods, highlighting the unique biodiversity of these subterranean ecosystems. The study also noted anthropogenic impacts on cave communities.

Distributional patterns of fecal indicator bacteria in spring area of Plitvice Lakes National park

Plitvice Lakes National Park — 2016 — WHE6835C4FC5E

Fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in Plitvice Lakes National Park exhibit seasonal and spatial variability, with higher densities observed in the spring area compared to Prošćansko Lake. The study identified the White River below the village of Plitvički Ljeskovac as a primary source of fecal pollution, particularly in July and October, likely due to heavy rainfall. Seasonal fluctuations were noted, with increased densities of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC) in these months. The ratio of FC/FS suggested animal-derived contamination in July. Additionally, the Matica River estuary in Prošćansko Lake showed elevated TC and FC levels, potentially influenced by source streams and lake stratification. These findings underscore the impact of weather conditions and water column dynamics on FIB distribution, highlighting the need for targeted monitoring to assess health hazards in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Distributional patterns of fecal indicator bacteria in spring area of Plitvice lakes National park

Plitvice Lakes National Park — 2016 — WHE5640DE6D48

A study on fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) in Plitvice Lakes National Park revealed that the spring area sustained higher densities of FIB compared to Prošćansko Lake, with the White River below the village showing the highest values, indicating Plitvički Ljeskovac as a primary source of fecal pollution. Seasonal variations were observed, particularly in July and October, with the latter likely influenced by heavy rainfall. The FC/FS ratio suggested contamination primarily of animal origin during July. Increased densities of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC) were noted at the Matica River estuary in Prošćansko Lake, possibly due to source stream influence and stratification conditions. The study highlights that FIB distribution in this protected area is influenced by season, weather conditions, and water column dynamics.

Diurnal temporal patterns of the diversity and the abundance of reef fishes in a branching coral patch in New Caledonia

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2016 — WHE3C2B67A196

A study on the Lagoons of New Caledonia reveals significant diurnal variability in reef fish diversity and abundance. Researchers used autonomous video systems to record fish assemblages 10 times daily for 34 days, capturing over 50,000 observations from 114 taxa. The findings indicate that fish richness and abundance peak during early morning and late afternoon, with notable temporal patterns in the abundance of 14 taxa, primarily herbivore-detritus feeders. These patterns suggest diel migration behaviors, emphasizing the importance of accounting for small-scale temporal variability in ecological studies and habitat connectivity assessments.

Diversity and extracellular enzyme activities of fungal endophytes isolated from medicinal plants of Western Ghats, Karnataka

Western Ghats — 2016 — WHE339EC2301D

A study of fungal endophytes from six wild medicinal plants in the Western Ghats, including two endangered species (Hedychium flavescens and Hedychium coronarium), reveals significant extracellular enzyme activity among 112 isolates. Notably, 40% exhibited asparaginase activity, while 29%, 28%, and 18% showed amylase, cellulase, and pectinase activity, respectively—with no laccase activity detected. This is the first report of such enzymatic diversity in endangered plants from this region. The research used Simpson's and Shannon–Weiner indices to analyze fungal diversity across 26 genera, highlighting potential biotechnological applications while underscoring the ecological importance of endophytic fungi in threatened species.

Diversity of biometeorological conditions in Toruń and its suburban area in 2012

Medieval Town of Toruń — 2016 — WHE65D2758A77

A study of Toruń’s medieval town and its suburbs in 2012 revealed significant differences in biometeorological conditions, with the city center offering more favorable thermal environments than agricultural areas. The research used data from 10 weather stations to calculate indices like UTCI (Universal Thermal Climate Index), PST (Physiological Subjective Temperature), Iclp (Predicted Insulation of Clothing), and PhS (Physiological Strain). Key findings included the absence of heat stress in the city center for half the year, while suburban areas experienced moderate to strong cold stress on 42% of days. Urban green spaces played a crucial role in modifying conditions, particularly by reducing wind speed. The study suggests that Toruń’s climate is generally comfortable for residents and tourists, with two-thirds of the year being favorable from a heat stress perspective.

Diversity of marine mammal vocalizations off Rausu, Shiretoko, northern Japan

Shiretoko — 2016 — WHEBF70AA911C

Passive acoustic monitoring off Rausu, Shiretoko, revealed distinct vocalization patterns among marine mammals, providing new insights into their seasonal behaviors. Pacific white-sided dolphins emitted burst pulsed calls in July, November, and December, while ribbon seals produced downsweeps likely linked to breeding activities in February and March. Killer whales exhibited pulsed calls from April to August, and sperm whales generated clicks in July and August, suggesting foraging behavior. This non-invasive method overcame limitations posed by seasonal sea ice and harsh weather, offering a comprehensive understanding of marine mammal ecology in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Does ecotourism affect economic welfare? Evidence from Kaziranga National Park, India

Kaziranga National Park — 2016 — WHE8A433C54DE

Ecotourism significantly enhances economic welfare and fosters positive attitudes toward conservation in communities surrounding Kaziranga National Park. Households engaged in ecotourism report improved living conditions, political empowerment, and increased household expenditures, underscoring its role as a market-based conservation strategy. The study, conducted through random sampling of peripheral villages and regression analysis, reveals that ecotourism strengthens local economies while promoting pro-conservation behaviors. Recommendations include diversifying livelihoods with off-season activities rooted in local culture and skills, alongside government support for eco-development projects, training, and financing to sustain long-term benefits.

Does the whale shark aggregate along the Western Australian coastline beyond Ningaloo Reef?

Ningaloo Coast — 2016 — WHE20D68203C2

Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus) exhibit seasonal migrations along the Western Australian coastline beyond Ningaloo Reef, challenging the notion that their aggregations are limited to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Satellite tracking of 14 tagged whale sharks revealed that these marine giants travel an average of 1667 km (±316 km) from Ningaloo Reef during spring and summer, inhabiting most of the Western Australian coast (from 35°S to 12°S). This finding suggests that their movements may be linked to areas of increased productivity beyond Ningaloo, potentially involving migrations north or south. The study combined satellite tracking with public sightings, historical data, and photo-identification to map whale shark distributions, providing critical insights into their broader range and behavior.

Does tourism illuminate the darkness of Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

Hiroshima Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) — 2016 — WHE32B130F417

Tourism at UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Hiroshima's Peace Memorial (Genbaku Dome) serves dual purposes: commemorating atomic bomb victims and promoting cultural heritage. A study reveals that while both Hiroshima and Nagasaki leverage tourism for educational remembrance, they differ in their approaches—Hiroshima emphasizes traditional Japanese culture and tragedy, whereas Nagasaki presents itself as a multicultural hub. The research, using interviews with government officials and analysis of tourism materials, identifies two key themes: tourism-education and war-peace, both deeply rooted in historical context. This duality underscores the tension between preserving memory and fostering contemporary identity in post-war Japan.

Draft Genome Sequence of Micromonospora sp . Strain HK10, Isolated from Kaziranga National Park, India

Kaziranga National Park — 2016 — WHEDF7EBA1BAD

Researchers have sequenced the genome of Micromonospora sp. strain HK10, a soil-dwelling actinobacterium isolated from Kaziranga National Park, India. The draft genome spans 6.92 million base pairs (Mbp) with a GC content of 73.39%, encoding 6,196 protein-coding genes and 86 RNAs. This genetic data provides insights into the microbial diversity and potential biotechnological applications of Micromonospora species in one of India's premier biodiversity hotspots. The study highlights the significance of soil microbes in conservation efforts by offering a foundational genomic resource for further exploration of their ecological roles and secondary metabolite production.

Draft Genome Sequences of Sarcina ventriculi Strains Isolated from Wild Japanese Macaques in Yakushima Island

Yakushima — 2016 — WHE40FF07A6F7

Researchers have sequenced the draft genomes of two Sarcina ventriculi strains, 14 and 17, isolated from the feces of wild Yakushima macaques (Macaca fuscata yakui). These sequences provide valuable insights into the phylogenetic relationships within the family Clostridiaceae and contribute to understanding the role of intestinal microbiota in the survival of this unique primate population. The study leverages genomic analysis to explore the microbial diversity associated with Yakushima macaques, offering potential implications for their health and ecological adaptation on Yakushima Island.

Drainage System of Prambanan Temple Yard Using No-Fine Concrete of Volcanic Ash and Bantak Merapi

Prambanan Temple Compounds — 2016 — WHEF06F715E4C

A novel approach to sustainable drainage for UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Prambanan Temple Compounds, leverages volcanic ash and coarse volcanic slag (Bantak) to create no-fine concrete. This eco-friendly material not only addresses environmental concerns by repurposing volcanic waste but also maintains the structural integrity and aesthetic authenticity of historic structures. Experimental studies confirmed that this porous drainage system effectively manages water flow while numerical analyses using SAP2000 and Plaxis ensured stability without compromising the site's original design.

Drinking Water Quality in the Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2016 — WHE0C468D173D

A first-of-its-kind study reveals significant fecal contamination of drinking water sources in the Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal, particularly in lower-altitude, more populated areas and during the pre-monsoon summer season. The research identified a strong correlation between E. coli levels, population density, tourist traffic, and elevation, with surface water showing higher contamination than groundwater-fed springs. Despite meeting WHO standards for physical properties like temperature, pH, conductivity, and total dissolved solids (TDS), seasonal variability was observed, with May samples exhibiting higher bacterial presence than November ones. Conductivity and TDS generally decreased with elevation, while pH increased, underscoring the complex interplay of tourism, geography, and climate on water quality in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Drivers of predatory behavior and extreme size in house mice Mus musculus on Gough Island

Gough and Inaccessible Islands — 2016 — WHE80BDB36A8E

House mice on Gough Island exhibit extreme body mass (50–60% greater than other island populations) and high predatory behavior, driven by enhanced overwinter survival. This study reveals that mice maintain higher mass and condition during winter, coinciding with peak mortality rates, by exploiting abundant seabird chicks. Proximity to neighboring predated nests and nesting densities further influence predation likelihood. The research highlights how island syndrome traits in introduced rodents, such as increased body size and density, contribute to devastating impacts on native species like burrowing petrels and the Critically Endangered Tristan albatross. The study combines field observations with ecological analysis to link seasonal survival patterns to predatory behavior.