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First record of the whitetip reef shark, Triaenodon obesus from the coast of Jalisco, western Mexico mainland

Archipiélago de Revillagigedo — 2016 — WHECB056ED1DD

A whitetip reef shark, Triaenodon obesus, was documented for the first time along the western Mexican mainland coast near Jalisco, extending its known range from the Revillagigedo Archipelago and Baja California. Observed resting in a cave at 4.5 meters depth during an exploratory dive on February 18, 2015, the specimen's identification was confirmed through photographs and videos. This discovery suggests a probable dispersal route from the Revillagigedo Archipelago to Baja California, followed by a southward movement along coastal areas from Sinaloa to Jalisco, supported by recent reports in southern Nayarit.

First records of the reef manta ray Manta alfredi in the Bohol Sea, Philippines, and its implication for conservation

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park — 2016 — WHEBBD25BC998

Researchers have confirmed the presence of the reef manta ray (Manta alfredi) in the Bohol Sea, Philippines, marking its first recorded occurrence in the country. This discovery extends the known range of the species over 600 km eastward from the Sulu Sea to the Visayas region, challenging previous assumptions about its distribution. The study relied on photographic evidence from boat-based surveys and a fishery specimen, despite anecdotal reports from the diving industry and long-standing targeted fisheries for mobulid rays in the Philippines. The findings underscore the need for improved conservation strategies, particularly in regions with active manta ray fisheries, to address potential threats to the species' population.

First report of Quaternary mammals from the Qalehjough area, Lut Desert, Eastern Iran

Lut Desert — 2016 — WHE7247330AFC

A first-of-its-kind discovery of Quaternary mammals has been made in the Qalehjough area of Iran's Lut Desert, offering critical insights into the region's prehistoric biodiversity. The study, led by researchers from Iran and Spain, identified fossilized remains of large mammals such as elephants, rhinoceroses, and equids, providing evidence of a once-rich ecosystem in this arid landscape. The team employed stratigraphic analysis and comparative morphometry to date the fossils to the Quaternary period, contributing to our understanding of environmental changes during this era. This finding underscores the Lut Desert's significance as a paleoecological hotspot and its potential as a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate.

Fish functional groups in a tropical wetland of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Sian Ka'an — 2016 — WHE0D684FE111

Research at Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve reveals distinct functional group structures in fish communities, varying between permanent and temporary pools as well as dry and wet seasons. Six functional groups were identified based on food acquisition and locomotion traits, with two showing high redundancy and three represented by unique species. During the dry season, permanent pools exhibited lower functional richness and diversity but higher evenness, suggesting environmental filtering. Conversely, the wet season demonstrated niche complementarity across habitats, indicating dynamic shifts in ecological functioning driven by seasonal changes.

Fish larvae and recruitment patterns in floodplain lagoons of the Australian Wet Tropics

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2016 — WHED0032A4006

Floodplain lagoons in the Wet Tropics of Queensland serve as critical yet threatened habitats for fish, playing a pivotal role in the recruitment and life cycles of 15 native species. This study reveals that these lagoons support both freshwater-resident species and those requiring saline habitats for larval development, with their connectivity to rivers, proximity to the coast, and flood dynamics significantly influencing fish abundance, population structure, and recruitment patterns. The research highlights three distinct ecological strategies among fish species: small opportunists like Melanotaenia splendida, which thrive in wet and post-wet seasons; an equilibrium species, Glossamia aprion; and larger periodic strategists such as neosilurid catfishes. To sustain these essential functions, maintaining natural seasonal flow patterns and protecting lagoons from riparian and land-use disturbances is imperative.

Five new species of Corybas (Diurideae, Orchidaceae) endemic to New Zealand and phylogeny of the Nematoceras clade

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2016 — WHE1565808717

Researchers have identified five new species of Corybas orchids endemic to New Zealand, distinguished from the Corybas trilobus aggregate through morphometric and DNA fingerprinting (AFLP) analyses. These species—C. confusus, C. obscurus, C. sanctigeorgianus, C. vitreus, and C. wallii—exhibit low genetic divergence, suggesting recent diversification despite their morphological and ecological diversity. The study also reveals multiple dispersal events from New Zealand to offshore and sub-Antarctic islands, contributing new insights into the phylogeny of the Nematoceras clade.

Fizikalno-kemične značilnosti voda v zaledju Malenščice (Slovenija)

Škocjan Caves — 2016 — WHEDE635BA322

A study of the physico-chemical properties of waters in the Škocjan Caves region, Slovenia, reveals distinct connections between underground water systems. The research shows that dolomitic water from the Cerkniščica primarily flows into the Rak river and Rakov Škocjan valley, while springs like Kotliči indicate links to Svinjska jama cave and Mala Karlovica. Low water levels in the Rak river at its swallowhole are dominated by Kotliči waters with a Ca/Mg ratio of around 3.5, dropping to 2.2 during the lowest levels when only Cerkniščica sinks into Svinjska jama. High water levels introduce a mixture from both Rak and Kotliči, raising the Ca/Mg ratio to about 4. Influxes from Pivka Valley and poorly conductive parts of Javorniki are marked by higher Ca/Mg ratios (around 5) and increased pollution indicators. The complexity of this system leaves several unanswered questions, highlighting the need for further research.

Flaked Lithic Artefacts from Neolithic Sites around the Bay of Firth:

Heart of Neolithic Orkney — 2016 — WHEFBCF8B370E

A detailed analysis of flaked lithic artefacts from Neolithic sites around the Bay of Firth, Orkney, reveals significant insights into the development and organization of Neolithic house societies. The study identifies distinct patterns in stone tool production and use, suggesting specialized craftsmanship and social structures within these early communities. Researchers employed a combination of typological analysis, contextual studies, and comparative methods to examine artefacts from multiple sites, uncovering evidence of technological innovation and cultural exchange. This work contributes to understanding the complex societal dynamics of Neolithic Orkney.

Floods and cultural heritage: Risk assessment and management for the city of Florence, Italy

Historic Centre of Florence — 2016 — WHEDC33837538

A devastating flood in Florence, Italy, in 1966 highlighted the severe threats natural hazards pose to cultural heritage. A recent study quantifies these risks for Florence, where 46 of its 176 officially classified cultural buildings may be affected by a 100-year recurrence interval flood, increasing to 126 for a 200-year event—comparable in magnitude to the 1966 disaster. Beyond physical structures, countless ancient manuscripts, paintings, sculptures, and art objects face potential damage. The study presents a preliminary risk assessment for selected damage categories and discusses mitigation strategies, emphasizing the need for better quantification of losses to stimulate public debate and protection measures. This research underscores Europe's vulnerability as a leader in World Heritage Cities exposed to high flood risks, where the irreplaceable value of cultural assets demands urgent attention.

Flora of Niti Valley: a cold arid region of Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve, Western Himalaya, India

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2016 — WHE18E46DF401

A comprehensive survey of Niti Valley, a cold arid region within the extended buffer zone of the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve in the Western Himalaya, has identified 495 vascular plant species across 267 genera and 73 families. This study significantly expands the known flora of the reserve by adding 167 species to the existing record of 801, highlighting Niti Valley's role as a transitional zone between the Trans and Greater Himalaya. The survey, conducted from 2011 to 2014, revealed that Asteraceae was the most diverse family (58 species), followed by Poaceae, Lamiaceae, Fabaceae, Brassicaceae, and Rosaceae. This research provides critical insights into the botanical richness of this understudied region, contributing valuable data for conservation efforts in the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Flora of the core zones of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, Mexico: composition, geographical affinities and beta diversity

Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve — 2016 — WHE6BE36776B5

The core zones of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (MBBR) in Mexico harbor a rich and diverse flora, with 694 plant species identified across three core areas: Cerro Altamirano, Cerro Pelón, and Chincua-Campanario-Chivati. Notably, about 38% of these species are endemic to Mexico, underscoring the region's unique biodiversity. The study, conducted between 2000 and 2006, found that forests dominated by Quercus and Abies exhibited the highest species diversity, while herbaceous plants were the predominant growth form (ca. 75%). High beta diversity values (Jaccard index 0.03 to 0.11) indicated significant floristic variation among the core zones, with over half of the documented species (66.3%) found exclusively in one zone. These findings highlight the complementary nature of the core zones for plant conservation and emphasize their importance as critical habitats for migrating Monarch butterfly populations.

Flora y Fauna de Cuatro Bosques de Polylepis (Rosaceae) en la Cordillera del Vilcanota (Cusco, Peru).

City of Cuzco — 2016 — WHEFA7301873C

High-altitude Polylepis forests in the Cordillera del Vilcanota (Peru) harbor unique biodiversity, including specialist species and high endemism levels. However, these ecosystems face severe anthropogenic threats such as deforestation for fuel and construction, along with overgrazing, making them one of the most vulnerable habitats in the Andes. A recent study by Servat et al. (2016) addresses critical knowledge gaps by documenting flora and fauna across four understudied Polylepis forest localities: Sacsamonte, Yanacocha, Pumahuanca, and Queuñamonte. The research catalogs 144 angiosperm species, 68 bird species (including nine with conservation priority), seven reptiles/amphibians (one of which is rare), and eight mammal species. This contribution to the 'Proyecto Queñual' aims to inform targeted conservation strategies for these fragile Andean ecosystems.

Flowering phenology of Mouriri guianensis (Melastomataceae) and its interaction with the crepuscular bee Megalopta amoena (Halictidae) in the restinga of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park — 2016 — WHEC81B2B2473

A rare crepuscular pollination system was identified in the Brazilian endemic plant Mouriri guianensis, where flowering peaks at twilight to evade less effective daytime pollinators. The study observed that bees, particularly Megalopta amoena and Xylocopa cearensis, exhibit buzz pollination behavior, with M. amoena using its jaws to access anthers. Over 86 bee visits were recorded, with activity concentrated between 5:00 and 6:00 AM. The research highlights the plant's extended anthesis as a strategy to attract specialized pollinators while minimizing interactions with less beneficial visitors.

Fluid dipping technology of chimpanzees in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast

Comoé National Park — 2016 — WHEBA583CE1DD

Researchers discovered that chimpanzees in Comoé National Park, Ivory Coast, employ a specialized tool-use behavior for extracting water from tree holes using brush-tip modified sticks. This 'fluid dipping' technique was observed across multiple age and sex classes and communities, suggesting cultural transmission. The study, conducted over six months during the dry season, analyzed stick tools used for foraging ants, termites, honey, and water, revealing significant differences in tool morphology between water-dipping and honey-dipping tools. Water-dipping tools featured longer and thicker brush-tips. While this behavior was limited to the late dry season despite alternative water sources being available, its widespread presence highlights the chimpanzees' unique behavioral repertoire, underscoring the importance of their conservation.

Fluid Waters and Rigid Livelihoods in the Okavango Delta of Botswana

Okavango Delta — 2016 — WHE9EB888031A

A study of the Okavango Delta, Botswana, reveals that while flooding and precipitation patterns have shown spatial variability, some local livelihood systems remain rigid in their ability to adapt. This finding underscores the need for detailed research on livelihood dynamics to better support adjustments within socio-ecological systems facing climate change. The research draws from qualitative interviews conducted between 2010 and 2011 in three communities (Etsha 1, Etsha 6, and Etsha 13) to evaluate perceptions of environmental change, particularly regarding precipitation and flooding dynamics. By analyzing social responses to these changes, the study highlights the challenges posed by climate variability in Southern Africa, a region identified as particularly vulnerable to global climate impacts.

Fluvial and Maritime Commerce through the Port of Cartagena de Indias as A Conciliatory Element in the Viceroyalty of Nueva Granada’s Economy, 1780–1810

Port, Fortresses and Group of Monuments, Cartagena — 2016 — WHED9E71C9B46

Cartagena de Indias played a pivotal role as a conciliatory element in the economy of the Viceroyalty of Nueva Granada (1780–1810), facilitating interregional commerce through its strategic fluvial and maritime connections. The port served as a critical hub for trade, linking main ports, cities, and villages while managing diverse goods, taxes, and merchant networks. This study analyzed commercial exchanges by examining the movement of merchandise, tax systems, and the establishment of trade routes, revealing how Cartagena's infrastructure and logistics supported economic cohesion across the region.

Food and Menu in The Frontline and in Restaurants in Homeland – What did Civilians and Soldiers Consume During the Great War?

Budapest, including the Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue — 2016 — WHEE884757B70

During the Great War (1914–1918), Budapest's restaurants demonstrated remarkable creativity and innovation in overcoming food shortages, offering rich and diverse wartime menus. This study highlights how historical archives—collecting restaurant menus and civilian/soldier accounts—can enrich war heritage sites by providing authentic, multisensory experiences. By analyzing these resources, researchers uncover the adaptability of wartime gastronomy, a relatively understudied aspect of World War I history. The findings suggest that such archives hold significant potential for educational and commemorative purposes, bridging historical documentation with immersive storytelling.

Food Culture of Tomb of An-Ak No. 3 in Koguryo Dynasty

Complex of Koguryo Tombs — 2016 — WHEF14E12E127

Mural paintings in the An-Ak Tomb No. 3 of the Koguryo Dynasty reveal distinct differences in food culture between Koguryo and ancient China before the 4th century, particularly in meat storage practices. While Koguryo tombs depict whole carcasses of animals like roe deer, dog, and pig, Chinese murals show a more detailed approach to slaughtering larger animals such as cows and pigs, with separate depictions of body parts. The study highlights the unique representation of food culture through elements like the stove (buttumak), cauldron (sot), and steamer (siru) in Koguryo tomb murals, providing a vivid contrast to Chinese practices.

Food Insecurity in Urban and Rural Areas in Central Brazil: Transition from Locally Produced Foods to Processed Items

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2016 — WHE3103A00C3C

A striking shift from locally produced foods to processed items is linked to heightened food insecurity and poor diet quality in both urban and rural areas of Central Brazil, particularly in Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks. The study, using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios in fingernails alongside food intake data, revealed that diets in these regions exhibit low diversity and rely heavily on low-quality processed foods, exacerbating nutrition insecurity. While both settings face challenges, rural areas experience more pronounced effects. This transition not only impacts health but also raises concerns about environmental sustainability and economic stability.

Forecasting of Daily PM10 Concentrations in Brno and Graz by Different Regression Approaches

City of Graz – Historic Centre and Schloss Eggenberg — 2016 — WHE019E43A316

In Brno and Graz, winter PM10 concentrations frequently surpass the EU limit of 50 µg/m³ due to poor air dispersion conditions. This study demonstrates that reliable daily PM10 forecasts can be generated using multiple linear regression and generalized linear models, incorporating both current measurements and next-day meteorological data. Both approaches yield similarly accurate predictions, as assessed by multiple quality measures. These models could inform future regulatory decisions, such as traffic restrictions, by providing actionable short-term air quality insights.