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Publications

Showing 22921 – 22940 of 30345 publications

A Metapopulation Model for Feral Hogs in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2015 — WHE7C83E452D0

A discrete-time, space model reveals that feral hog population growth in Great Smoky Mountains National Park has been effectively limited by management efforts. The study leveraged historical data on vegetation, mast (seed production), and harvest to simulate population dynamics, demonstrating the impact of natural resource variability on invasive species control. Key findings suggest that targeted interventions have curbed expansion, offering insights for sustainable management strategies.

A methodological approach for the construction of a Collaborative Multicriteria Spatial Decision Support System for the evaluation of smart multifunctional landscape: the case of the National Park of Cilento, Vallo di Diano and Alburni, Southern Italy

Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park with the Archeological Sites of Paestum and Velia, and the Certosa di Padula — 2015 — WHEABC57CB33A

A novel methodology for evaluating smart multifunctional landscapes has been developed, offering a collaborative and spatially integrated approach to guide sustainable territorial transformations. This research introduces a Collaborative Multicriteria Spatial Decision Support System (SSDCS) tailored for the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park in Southern Italy. The SSDCS combines structured data with social preferences to create a shared knowledge base, enhancing democratic and transparent decision-making processes. It aims to align territorial changes with principles of self-sustainable development, resilience, and stakeholder inclusion, providing a dynamic tool for complex social decisions. This approach represents a significant advancement in landscape policy activation, positively influencing the quality of life associated with these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Coastal Protection of Two Archaeological Sites in Lybia

Archaeological Site of Leptis Magna — 2015 — WHEF892281C66

A multidisciplinary approach integrating multi-beam technology, satellite imagery, and bathymetric surveys has been successfully employed to design coastal protection measures for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Leptis Magna in Libya. This method addressed logistic challenges and time constraints while providing detailed morphological reconstructions essential for safeguarding the archaeological site from flooding risks posed by the Wadi Lebda. The study, part of a broader project initiated in 2009, demonstrates the effectiveness of combining advanced remote sensing techniques with ground investigations to support large-scale heritage conservation interventions.

A national discovery and loss of a landscape – photographic images of the Curonian Spit

Curonian Spit — 2015 — WHE7277539341

The Curonian Spit, a historic and culturally significant landscape divided between Lithuania and the Kaliningrad Oblast (Russia), has been transformed from a symbol of national discovery to one of loss in collective memory. This shift is evident through photographic representations in popular Bildbände (photographic books) from 1930s to 1960s, which captured the landscape's iconic status during its heyday as part of East Prussia. The study reveals how these visual and textual depictions shaped perceptions, ultimately framing the region as a lost territory in post-World War II narratives. By analyzing archival photographic materials, the research explores the evolution of this landscape's imagery, highlighting its enduring cultural significance despite geopolitical changes.

A new archaeological field survey of the site of Nan Madol, Pohnpei

Nan Madol: Ceremonial Centre of Eastern Micronesia — 2015 — WHEA44976FBC1

A high-precision GPS survey of Nan Madol, Pohnpei, reveals the full extent and layout of its artificial islets, providing the first comprehensive digital map of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study updates century-old cartography by Paul Hambruch, offering a detailed GIS dataset available via tDAR for future research. Additionally, it compiles variant place names from historical literature and incorporates oral traditions to clarify the site's ceremonial and administrative functions. This baseline database aims to standardize nomenclature and deepen understanding of ancient Pohnpeian society.

A new cercopithecoid dentognathic specimen attributed to Theropithecus from the late Early Pleistocene (c. 1 Ma) deposits of Simbiro, at Melka Kunture, Ethiopian highlands

Melka Kunture and Balchit: Archaeological and Palaeontological Sites in the Highland Area of Ethiopia — 2015 — WHE456E13B552

A new cercopithecoid dentognathic specimen from the late Early Pleistocene deposits of Simbiro, Melka Kunture, Ethiopia, has been identified as belonging to the genus Theropithecus, likely Theropithecus sp. cf. oswaldi. This discovery adds to the rich mammalian assemblages found at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, providing further insights into the palaeontological history of the region. The specimen, catalogued SIM III-13-1 and collected in 2013, was analyzed using classical descriptions, measurements, X-ray computed tomography (CT), and 2D/3D quantitative analyses to propose its taxonomic attribution. This study contributes to our understanding of the evolutionary history and biodiversity of primates during this critical period.

A New Chronology for the Bronze Age of Northeastern Thailand and Its Implications for Southeast Asian Prehistory

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site — 2015 — WHEE9024959DE

A new chronology for the Bronze Age in Northeastern Thailand, supported by 105 radiocarbon determinations, challenges the traditional model of its origins. The study, using Bayesian statistical analysis, finds that bronze technology likely arrived in Southeast Asia around the 11th century B.C., originating from a southward expansion of expertise from early states in China's Yellow and Yangtze valleys, rather than direct contact with Central Eurasian specialists. This redates key sites like Ban Chiang and Non Nok Tha, providing a more accurate regional timeline for copper-based technology and its social impact.

A New Early Semionotidae (Semionotiformes, Actinopterygii) from the Upper Ladinian of Monte San Giorgio Area Southern Switzerland and Northern Italy)

Monte San Giorgio — 2015 — WHE30BEEF0D25

A new genus of early Semionotidae, Sangiorgioichthys aldae, was discovered from the Upper Ladinian Kalkschieferzone of Monte San Giorgio, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning southern Switzerland and northern Italy. This fossil provides critical insights into the poorly understood early history of Semionotiformes, with distinct morphological features such as ganoine-covered dermal skull bones, an unusually large ventral infraorbital, and specialized dentition. The study employed detailed anatomical analysis to classify the specimen within the Semionotidae family, noting shared diagnostic traits while highlighting unique characteristics that differentiate it from other known taxa. This discovery contributes significantly to understanding the evolutionary trajectory of this ancient fish group during the Triassic period.

A New Fragment of Diocletian's Currency Regulation from Aphrodisias

Aphrodisias — 2015 — WHEE18938FA00

A newly discovered inscription fragment from Aphrodisias, unearthed in 2014, offers critical insights into Diocletian's currency regulation. This fragment, part of a letter accompanying two edicts inscribed on the civic basilica wall, provides fresh possibilities for reconstructing the upper block of the dossier. The reference to the diocese of Asia suggests the letter was addressed to its rationalis, offering valuable context for understanding Diocletian's economic policies in the region. This discovery enhances our knowledge of late Roman administrative practices and the role of Aphrodisias as a hub for imperial decrees.

A New Genus and Species of the Family Trachydechidae (Coleopteran, Adephaga) from the Upper Ladinian (Middle Triassic) of Monte San Giorgio

Monte San Giorgio — 2015 — WHE97193A4B42

A new genus and species of the extinct beetle family Trachypachidae, Praedodromeus sangiorgiensis, has been discovered in the Upper Ladinian (Middle Triassic) strata of Monte San Giorgio. This fossil, characterized by its asymmetrical mandibles, subrectangular pronotum, and slender tibiae, contributes to the understanding of the paleoenvironment during this period. The discovery is part of a diverse insect assemblage that includes both terrestrial and aquatic taxa, providing evidence for emerged land and stable freshwater basins in the Monte San Giorgio area. This finding enriches the fossil record of Trachypachidae, with over 33 species now described, and offers insights into the ecological dynamics of the region during the Middle Triassic.

A new genus and two new species of cavernicolous amphipods (Crustacea: Typhlogammaridae) from the Western Caucasus

Western Caucasus — 2015 — WHEFA6FE36B98

Scientists have identified two new species of blind, cave-dwelling amphipods in the Western Caucasus, including a deep-dweller genus, Adaugammarus pilosus, found at unprecedented depths (1270-1700 m) in Sarma Cave. This discovery expands the known diversity of typhlogammarid amphipods and challenges existing taxonomic groupings within the family. The study also reclassified Anopogammarus birsteini and proposed two new species groups for Zenkevitchia, supported by molecular phylogeny (mt-cox1). Speleological expeditions between 2011-12 in Arabika massif caves enabled these findings, contributing to our understanding of subterranean biodiversity and cave adaptation.

A new species and new section of Viola (Violaceae) from Guangdong, China

China Danxia — 2015 — WHE02B345E59E

Scientists have identified a new species of Viola, named Viola hybanthoides, and established a new section, Danxiaviola, within the genus. This discovery was made from specimens collected at Mount Danxia in Guangdong, China, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse flora. Viola hybanthoides is distinguished by its subshrub habit, an anterior petal with a uniquely long stalk-like claw (up to 3.5 mm), and exceptionally short upper petals (2.5–3 mm). These traits set it apart from other Viola species, which typically feature longer upper petals and lack such elongated claws. The research also provides an identification key to differentiate Viola sections in China, contributing valuable insights for botanical taxonomy.

A new species of Lophodermium with variously branched paraphyses

Mount Sanqingshan National Park — 2015 — WHECCE059922B

Researchers have identified Lophodermium heterocladum, a new fungal species characterized by its distinctively branched paraphyses, found on the leaves of Rhododendron cavaleriei in Mount Sanqingshan National Park, China. This discovery contributes to the understanding of fungal biodiversity in the region. The study provides detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations, with the type collection preserved at Anhui Agricultural University. The research highlights the importance of systematic mycological surveys in UNESCO World Heritage Sites for uncovering novel taxa.

A new species of Andean frog of the genus Bryophryne from southern Peru Anura: Craugastoridae) and its phylogenetic position, with notes on the diversity of the genus

Manú National Park — 2015 — WHE23CB5C9FBF

Researchers have identified a new species of Andean frog, Bryophryne sp., within the wet puna and elfin forests of Manu National Park, Peru. This discovery expands the genus Bryophryne to nine species, all endemic to the Cordillera Oriental of the Peruvian Andes. The new species is distinguished by its lack of vomerine processes, inconspicuous tympanic features, smooth dorsal skin with warts, and bright, variable coloration ranging from olive-green to red. Phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA places this frog as a sister group to Bryophryne cophites, contributing to the understanding of the genus' evolutionary relationships. The study also notes the species' restriction to high-altitude environments (3506–3651 m) within protected areas, highlighting its potential conservation significance.

A new species of Andean lizard Proctoporus (Squamata: Gymnophthalmidae) from montane forest of the Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu, Peru

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu — 2015 — WHE00DBDF3FE7

Researchers have identified a new species of Andean lizard, Proctoporus, within the montane forests of Peru's Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This discovery, published in 2015, distinguishes the species through unique morphological traits, including scalation and color patterns, setting it apart from other known Proctoporus species. The lizard inhabits elevations between 2,760–2,800 meters, contributing to the biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study employed a combination of morphometric analysis and detailed examination of physical characteristics to validate the new species. This finding underscores the importance of high-altitude montane forests as critical habitats for endemic reptile diversity.

A new species of Noblella (Amphibia, Anura, Craugastoridae) from the humid montane forests of Cusco, Peru

City of Cuzco — 2015 — WHE3A48526CA6

Researchers have identified a new species of Noblella frog in the humid montane forests of Cusco, Peru. This discovery was made through specimen collection at elevations between 2330-2370 meters near Santa Ana, in the province of La Convención. The new species is distinguished by its broad, irregular white mark on a black chest and belly, along with unique morphological traits such as an absent tympanic membrane, small tubercles on the upper eyelid and dorsum, absence of tarsal tubercles or folds, non-expanded digit tips, no circumferential grooves on digits, and distinct dark brown facial mask and lateral band extending from the snout to the inguinal region. The species exhibits a snout-to-vent length of 15.6 mm (male) and 17.6 mm (female), similar to other high-elevation Noblella species, which likely have restricted geographic distributions.

A new species of Phthiridium (Diptera: Nycteribiidae) from Iriomote Island, the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, with a key to nycteribiid bat flies of Japan

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2015 — WHEFC72A9CD9B

Researchers have identified a new species of bat fly, Phthiridium sawadai, from Iriomote Island in the Ryukyu Islands, Japan. This discovery adds to the diversity of Nycteribiidae flies, which are parasitic on bats. The species is closely related to P. ornatum and P. szechuanum but can be distinguished by unique morphological features in both male and female specimens. The study also provides identification keys for three Phthiridium species and all eleven Nycteribiidae species known from Japan, aiding in the taxonomic classification of these insects. This contribution enhances our understanding of bat-associated parasites in the region.

A new species of Rock-Dwelling Scinax Wagler (Anura: Hylidae) from Chapada dos Veadeiros, Central Brazil

Cerrado Protected Areas: Chapada dos Veadeiros and Emas National Parks — 2015 — WHE17C1E142A8

Researchers have identified a new species of rock-dwelling frog, belonging to the Scinax ruber clade, in the Chapada dos Veadeiros region of Central Brazil. This discovery is notable for its unique physical and behavioral traits, including a distinctive advertisement call composed of 8-14 notes with 4-18 pulses per note, and a duration of 290-420 milliseconds. The frog's dorsal color pattern also aids in camouflage on rocky surfaces. The study used morphological and bioacoustic analyses to differentiate this species from others in the clade. The new species inhabits temporary creeks in rock meadows above 1,000 meters above sea level, with males calling from rock outcrops.

A new species of spectacularly coloured flat lizard Platysaurus (Squamata: Cordylidae: Platysaurinae) from southern Africa

Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape — 2015 — WHEDD968EDA3F

Researchers have identified a new species of flat lizard, Platysaurus attenboroughi, from the Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape in South Africa and Namibia. This discovery was made through genetic analysis, which revealed significant divergence between this species and its previously confused counterpart, P. capensis. The study used one mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and two nuclear DNA (nDNA) loci to confirm the distinction, supported by differences in scalation, coloration, and geographic distribution. To clarify taxonomy, the type locality of P. capensis was restricted to the Kamiesberg region in Namaqualand, South Africa.

A new species of Terriera (Rhytismatales, Ascomycota) on Photinia villosa

Mount Sanqingshan National Park — 2015 — WHE938C76CED9

Scientists have identified and described a new species of Terriera, T. aequabilis, found on the fallen leaves of Photinia villosa in Mount Sanqingshan National Park, China. This discovery distinguishes itself from related species like T. cladophila through key morphological features such as smaller ascomata without associated conidiomata, black thin zone lines, a well-developed excipulum, and unbranched paraphyses. The research provides detailed illustrations and discussions to support the characterization of this new taxon, with the type specimen preserved in Anhui Agricultural University's Reference Collection. This finding enriches the understanding of fungal biodiversity within UNESCO World Heritage Sites.