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Lagoon islets as indicators of recent environmental changes in the South Pacific – The New Caledonian example

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2016 — WHE3A7C2E72CF

Nineteen percent of the 21 lagoon islets studied in New Caledonia are in a highly critical state, likely to disappear within the next few years due to climate change and environmental degradation. Researchers developed a typology of islet stages and a life expectancy index to assess their vulnerability, revealing that sea level rise, reef ecosystem degradation, sediment loss, human activity, and coastal development collectively threaten these fragile indicators of environmental and climatic change in the South Pacific.

Lahore

Fort and Shalamar Gardens in Lahore — 2016 — WHEC24C4E16EC

Lahore's origins remain shrouded in legend and historical ambiguity, with its earliest known references dating back to the 10th century. Arab geographers and historians, including Hudadul Alam and Al-Beruni, mentioned Lahore as a significant city under Multan's administration or as Mandayakur, though its early history lacks clear records. The city's name is believed to derive from Loharchand, a governor who established it as his capital in the 12th century, shifting from Loharpur to Lahore over time. While Muslim historians occasionally referenced Lahore, Persian historian Baihaqi solidified its recognition as a city in the 11th century, noting its fort as Mandayakur. Despite these fragmented accounts, Lahore's evolution as a cultural and administrative hub emerges from a patchwork of historical narratives.

Lake Baikal amphipods under climate change: thermal constraints and ecological consequences

Lake Baikal — 2016 — WHE92E5090873

Lake Baikal, the world's deepest and most voluminous freshwater lake, is experiencing rapid warming, which poses significant thermal constraints on its unique amphipod fauna. This study identified species-specific thermal tolerance limits in two endemic Baikal amphipods (Eulimnogammarus verrucosus and E. cyaneus) and a non-endemic Holarctic species (Gammarus lacustris). Using the oxygen- and capacity-limited thermal tolerance (OCLTT) framework, researchers found that E. verrucosus retreats from upper littoral zones once its pejus temperature (Tp) of 10.6°C is surpassed, marking a critical ecological boundary. While G. lacustris shares similar upper thermal limits with E. cyaneus, rising temperatures may not necessarily benefit the non-endemic species as previously thought. The study highlights the importance of behavioral plasticity in endemic species and suggests that secondary effects of warming require further investigation.

Lake Baikal Ecosystem Faces the Threat of Eutrophication

Lake Baikal — 2016 — WHE85730B6E07

Significant local eutrophication is occurring in two major bays of Lake Baikal, the world's oldest and deepest freshwater lake. Research conducted in July 2012 revealed alarming levels of algal biomass, including up to 70 kg/m³ of Spirogyra species in Barguzinsky Bay and dense accumulations of Elodea canadensis (up to 26 kg/m²) along Chivyrkuisky Bay's shoreline. The study also documented massive growth of colorless flagellates, cryptomonads, and cyanobacterial Anabaena species, indicating nutrient enrichment in these areas. This process poses a threat to Lake Baikal's unique ecosystem, necessitating urgent monitoring, identification of eutrophication sources, and development of mitigation strategies.

Lake-wide physical and biological trends associated with warming in Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal — 2016 — WHEB6D1318D4F

Lake Baikal, one of the world's oldest and deepest lakes, has exhibited significant physical and biological changes associated with warming over the past 26 years. Surface waters warmed by 2.0 °C lake-wide, leading to a marked increase in warm-water zooplankton species such as Cyclops kolensis (12-fold) and pelagic cladocerans (twofold), particularly in the north basin. In contrast, the cold-water endemic copepod Epischura baikalensis showed no change in abundance. While chlorophyll concentrations rose by 46% lake-wide, this increase was significant only in the south basin. Surprisingly, Secchi transparency deepened by 1.4 meters across the lake, suggesting a decline in productivity in the north and middle basins but an increase in the south. These findings indicate that Lake Baikal is experiencing warming-related changes without widespread pelagic eutrophication.

Land as a scarce resource: the 10th conference of the PLPR, Berne, Switzerland, 15–19 February 2016

Old City of Berne — 2016 — WHED064AB96C2

The Old City of Bern exemplifies the efficient use of limited land, showcasing high-quality urban design that contributes to its status as one of the world's most livable cities. This was highlighted during the 10th annual conference of the International Academic Association on Planning, Law, and Property Rights (PLPR), held in February 2016 at the University of Bern. The event brought together 160 participants from 39 countries to discuss 'Land as a scarce resource,' drawing parallels between the conference's topic and the medieval city's compact urban planning. The gathering set a new record for attendance, underscoring the global interest in sustainable land use and urban development.

Land cover and land use mapping of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa: comparison of oblique and orthogonal random forest algorithms

iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park — 2016 — WHED2380023EA

A study comparing oblique and orthogonal random forest algorithms for land cover classification in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa, found that both methods achieved high accuracy (>80%) using WorldView-2 image data. While no significant difference was observed between the two algorithms, both struggled to accurately classify indigenous forests. The research highlights the potential of oblique random forest (oRF) as a robust tool for mapping land cover and use in heterogeneous protected areas. This approach leverages supervised models to optimize tree splits, offering a promising alternative or complement to traditional random forest (RF) methods.

Land Use and Land Cover Change in Sagarmatha National Park, a World Heritage Site in the Himalayas of Eastern Nepal

Sagarmatha National Park — 2016 — WHE4B5B7DC5F1

Sagarmatha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Himalayas of eastern Nepal, has experienced significant land use and land cover (LULC) changes between 1992 and 2011. Satellite imagery analysis revealed that above 6000 meters, snow and ice coverage decreased, leading to an expansion of glacial lakes and barren areas. Below 6000 meters, forest and farmland diminished while grazing, settlement, and shrubland expanded, indicating severe land degradation. Sociological data from interviews and workshops showed that local perceptions often missed slower changes detectable via satellite imagery. Rapid economic development, tourism pressure, civil war, and limited protected area management were identified as key drivers of these changes, particularly below 6000 meters. While global factors like climate change cannot be locally mitigated, improved management practices could address local drivers to support conservation and sustainable development in this high-altitude ecosystem.

Landfill site selection using geographic information system and analytical hierarchy process: A case study Al-Hillah Qadhaa, Babylon, Iraq

Babylon — 2016 — WHE2E0774EEC6

Researchers identified two suitable landfill sites near Al-Hillah Qadhaa, Babylon, Iraq, capable of accommodating solid waste until 2030. The study used a geographic information system (GIS) and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate 15 key variables, including groundwater depth, soil types, elevation, and proximity to archaeological sites. This systematic approach ensured scientifically sound site selection, addressing the region's lack of landfills that meet modern criteria. The findings provide a data-driven solution for sustainable waste management in Babylon Governorate.

Landscape Economic Value for Territorial Scenarios of Change: An Application for the Unesco Site of Langhe, Roero and Monferrato

Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont: Langhe-Roero and Monferrato — 2016 — WHE43860288C4

A synthetic index of Landscape Economic Value (LEV) has been developed to measure the attractiveness of the UNESCO-listed Vineyard Landscape of Piedmont, including Langhe-Roero and Monferrato. This innovative approach integrates multiple economic indicators to assess how landscape value influences territorial development and human movement within clusters of municipalities. The LEV acts as a dynamic attractor factor in transformation models, offering new insights for policymakers to shape future territorial scenarios. The study provides an empirical framework for evaluating the economic impact of landscapes on regional growth, bridging the gap between scientific assessment and practical decision-making.

Landscape genetics reveals inbreeding and genetic bottlenecks in the extremely rare short-globose cacti Mammillaria pectinifera (Cactaceae) as a result of habitat fragmentation

Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley: originary habitat of Mesoamerica — 2016 — WHEB12EAF904F

Landscape genetics analysis of the critically endangered cactus Mammillaria pectinifera reveals significant genetic bottlenecks and inbreeding, primarily driven by habitat fragmentation in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley. Despite high overall genetic diversity, the study identifies heterozygote deficiency (FIS) and reduced population sizes, indicating severe threats to survival. Historical gene flow through pollen and seed dispersal has maintained connectivity, but current disturbances—such as deforestation—are isolating populations and disrupting natural habitats. The species' slow growth rates and long life cycles further exacerbate vulnerability. To mitigate extinction risks, the researchers advocate for in situ conservation within protected areas like the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve, alongside long-term ex situ strategies, including seed banking and habitat restoration protocols. Establishing a sustainable supply of living plants for trade is also critical to prevent further wild extraction.

Landscape variables that influence the presence of brocket deer (Mazama sp.) in the Campeche State, México

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2016 — WHE74CA46E655

Brocket deer (Mazama sp.) presence in the Campeche State, Mexico, is strongly influenced by landscape variables such as the percentage of preserved forest and livestock density. The study found that brocket deer are more likely to be present in areas with higher forest conservation and lower cattle density, indicating that these species thrive in pristine habitats but are negatively impacted by agricultural activities. Notably, flooded zones were rarely associated with brocket deer presence, suggesting these ecosystems may not support the species despite their inclusion in known distributional ranges. The research used a combination of track surveys along transects, principal component analysis, and logistic regression to analyze data from six study regions, revealing critical insights for the long-term conservation of brocket deer, particularly in areas where sport hunting is authorized.

Landscape, Memory, and Post-Violence in Cambodia

Cambodian Memorial Sites: From centres of repression to places of peace and reflection — 2016 — WHEE01E39D587

Selective memorialization of Cambodia's violent heritage, including sites like the 'killing fields' of Choeung Ek and unmarked mass graves, undermines the lived experiences of millions of Cambodians and hinders social justice and reconciliation efforts. This study inverts the traditional focus on heritage destruction during conflict to examine how sites of 'heritage violence' are threatened by selective memorialization, offering a grounded conceptual framework for post-violence in international conflict zones. The research employs critical heritage studies and engages with war, violence, and their cultural legacies to explore the production and impact of violent heritage.

Landsenses ecological planning for the Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal

The Grand Canal — 2016 — WHE126D734BBA

A novel approach to urban planning, termed 'landsenses ecology,' integrates human sensory experiences into ecological design. This study demonstrates its application for the Xianghe Segment of China's Grand Canal (XSCGC), addressing challenges in incorporating residents' sensory data—sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch—into sustainable development. By leveraging mixed-marching data and IoT technologies, the research bridges traditional urban planning gaps, which often overlook environmental quality and human welfare. The framework aims to enhance ecological planning by systematically analyzing both natural and human factors, offering a blueprint for future urban forms that prioritize sensory-rich environments.

Large‐amplitude mesospheric response to an orographic wave generated over the Southern Ocean Auckland Islands (50.7°S) during the DEEPWAVE project

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2016 — WHE75ED845705

A significant mesospheric response to orographic waves was observed over the Auckland Islands (50.7°S) during the DEEPWAVE project, revealing deep atmospheric wave propagation with large amplitudes and momentum flux. The study, conducted using a suite of ground-based and airborne instruments, including the NSF Gulfstream V research aircraft, documented a mountain wave with a temperature amplitude of ~10 K and a horizontal wavelength of ~40 km, which exhibited instability and breaking at the OH layer (~83.5 km). The findings suggest that strong mesospheric responses can arise from small sources under suitable conditions, challenging previous assumptions about their rarity.

Large‐scale, multidirectional larval connectivity among coral reef fish populations in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park

Great Barrier Reef — 2016 — WHE5361E7BC39

Coral reef fish larvae can disperse over vast distances, up to approximately 250 kilometers, contributing to the replenishment of exploited populations. This study used genetic parentage analysis to track larval dispersal patterns for two species of groupers (Plectropomus maculatus and Plectropomus leopardus) across three clusters of reefs in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, Australia. The findings revealed both short- and long-distance, multidirectional larval movement, with median dispersal distances estimated at around 110 km for P. maculatus and 190 km for P. leopardus. This highlights the potential for long-distance connectivity among coral reef fish populations, underscoring the importance of well-protected marine reserves in sustaining exploited species by providing larvae that can recolonize fished areas at multiple spatial scales.

Largest global shark biomass found in the northern Galápagos Islands of Darwin and Wolf

Galápagos Islands — 2016 — WHE618BE72AB5

Research conducted at the northern Galápagos Islands of Darwin and Wolf reveals the largest global shark biomass ever recorded, averaging 17.5 tons per survey site. This remarkable finding underscores the ecological significance of these islands within the Galápagos Marine Reserve (GMR), where sharks dominate reef fish communities despite severe depletion elsewhere due to unsustainable fishing practices. Stereo-video surveys over two consecutive years provided quantitative estimates of fish abundance, highlighting the unique biodiversity and conservation value of Darwin and Wolf. Although historically unprotected from fishing until 2016, their current status offers hope for long-term preservation, benefiting both ecological integrity and the region's economically vital dive tourism industry.

Last chance tourism and the Great Barrier Reef

Great Barrier Reef — 2016 — WHE2A215A1517

Tourists visiting the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) are increasingly motivated by a 'last chance experience,' seeking to witness the reef before its potential decline, according to new research. The study, based on 235 questionnaires with on-site tourists, found that these visitors—termed 'seeking a last chance experience'—display higher environmental consciousness and greater concern for the GBR's health, particularly regarding coral bleaching/disease and climate change. While tourism was ranked as a moderate to low threat, this trend suggests shifting tourist behavior driven by perceived ecological urgency. The findings highlight the need for conservation strategies that address both environmental degradation and the growing influence of last chance tourism on vulnerable ecosystems.

Late Helladic And Later Reuse Phases Of Kastrouli Settlement (Greece): Preliminary Dating Results

Archaeological Site of Delphi — 2016 — WHEDBCDB57C66

Research at the Kastrouli settlement in Delphi, Greece, reveals that this archaeological site was initially occupied during the Late Helladic period and subsequently reused across multiple historical phases, including the Middle Geometric, Early Archaic, and Classical periods. This discovery was made through a combination of optical luminescence dating (OSL) on ceramic samples and radiocarbon (C-14) dating of a bone sample, providing a preliminary but significant timeline for the site's occupation. The study highlights the site's continuous relevance in different historical contexts, offering new insights into the long-term use and significance of Delphi as a cultural and archaeological landscape.

Late Ordovician jaw-bearing polychaetes from Anticosti Island, eastern Canada, and their biogeographic significance

Anticosti — 2016 — WHEC4D0CB5D3A

A diverse assemblage of jaw-bearing polychaetes (scolecodonts) from the Late Ordovician rocks of Anticosti Island, eastern Canada, reveals strong biogeographic connections between Laurentia and Baltoscandia during a critical period in Earth's history. The study, which analyzed 10 samples containing approximately 30 species, documents several first occurrences for Laurentia, including the family Xanioprionidae and genera such as Pistoprion, Tetraprion, and Rakvereprion. The findings suggest that the closing Iapetus Ocean did not act as a barrier to polychaete dispersal, despite some Laurentian influence indicated by hadoprionid occurrences. Distinct differences between Katian Vauréal and Hirnantian Ellis Bay assemblages likely reflect local environmental changes rather than the initial phase of the Hirnantian mass extinction. This research sheds new light on the biogeographic dynamics during a pivotal interval in the evolution of marine life.