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Agroforestry systems of the lowland alluvial valleys of the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve: an evaluation of their biocultural capacity

Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley: originary habitat of Mesoamerica — 2015 — WHE94B9C0CC58

Agroforestry systems (AFS) in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Valley, Mexico, demonstrate remarkable biocultural capacity by combining traditional and intensive agricultural practices without significantly compromising biodiversity. The study found that 81% of the 66 tree and shrub species recorded in AFS were native, representing 38% of the perennial plant species found in unmanaged forests. Plant diversity decreased with higher agricultural intensity, but maintaining vegetation cover did not conflict with intensive practices. Key reasons for preserving wild plants included shade provision, beauty, fruit production, and soil/water retention. The research highlights the potential for expanding and enriching vegetation in terraces and borders of AFS, offering valuable insights for regional biodiversity conservation programs that leverage these systems as keystones.

Aisha’s Cushion: Religious Art, Perception, and Practice in IslamBy Jamal J. Elias

Cultural Landscape and Archaeological Remains of the Bamiyan Valley — 2015 — WHEDFB3D30AFC

Aisha’s Cushion challenges the Western perception of Islam as inherently iconoclastic, revealing instead a nuanced and dynamic relationship with religious art. The book explores how Islamic discourses—religious, philosophical, scientific, and mystical—shape perceptual practices, debunking the trope that Islam universally rejects imagery. By analyzing diverse Islamic traditions, it demonstrates that perception is not static but evolves within a complex discursive culture. Unlike conventional studies that focus on historical origins or anthropological practice, this work induces curiosity about Islam by examining its subjective parameters, offering a rare perspective that avoids external definitions and instead delves into the religion's internal subjectivity.

Aislamiento y caracterización de loci de microsatelites en el charal de Xochimilco Chirostoma humboldtianum

Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco — 2015 — WHE75F9C7C649

Researchers have identified and characterized eight polymorphic microsatellite loci for the endangered Chirostoma humboldtianum, also known as charal de Xochimilco, a fish species endemic to Mexico's UNESCO-listed Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco. These genetic markers, derived from an enriched gene library, reveal significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, likely due to small population sizes and habitat loss caused by human disturbances. The loci exhibit high observed (0.61) and expected (0.63) heterozygosity, with allele counts ranging from 3 to 11 per locus. This study represents the first description of microsatellite markers for this species and its genus, offering valuable tools for population genetics research, conservation efforts, and sustainable management strategies.

Alex J. Novikoff.The Medieval Culture of Disputation: Pedagogy, Practice, and Performance.

Cathedral of Notre-Dame, Former Abbey of Saint-Rémi and Palace of Tau, Reims — 2015 — WHEB25F718B3B

Alex J. Novikoff's study challenges the negative post-medieval perception of medieval scholastic disputation, revealing it as a dynamic and multifaceted practice integral to intellectual development from 1050 to 1263 in Northern France. Contrary to Renaissance and Enlightenment critiques, Novikoff demonstrates that disputation was part of a broader 'science of doubt,' encompassing argument, debate, dialogue, and polemic across educational, literary, performative, written, oral, and musical contexts. The research focuses on key figures like Anselm of Canterbury and his students at Bec, who revitalized dialectical reasoning and its application in theological debates, while also influencing the rise of the literary dialogue genre and sophisticated hermeneutics. It further explores how Aristotelian logic shaped medieval disputational practices, including vernacular debate poetry and art, culminating in the institutionalization of scholastic disputation within universities and Dominican preaching practices.

Algal growth potential and oxidative stress in Ankistrodesmus falcatus exposed to waters from Xochimilco Lake system, México

Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco — 2015 — WHEC3CBBEACE4

A study on the water quality of Xochimilco Lake, part of Mexico's UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals significant toxic effects on the native microalgae species Ankistrodesmus falcatus. The research found that water from urban, tourist, and agricultural zones induced oxidative stress in the algae, impairing its antioxidant enzyme activity and growth potential. This spatio-temporal impact of pollution was evident across multiple study periods, highlighting the severe deterioration of water quality in the lake system. The findings underscore the need for urgent intervention to mitigate environmental degradation and protect this critical ecosystem.

All Hands on Deck: The Roles of the Philippine Navy on Environmental Security The Case of the Tubbataha Reef Natural Parks

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park — 2015 — WHEC26D32F22B

The Philippine Navy plays a crucial role in enforcing environmental security at the UNESCO-listed Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park (TRNP), a critical marine protected area. A qualitative study reveals that while the Navy has been actively involved in compliance and enforcement since the park's establishment, there is significant potential for increased contributions, such as through Civil-Military Operations (CMO) to educate local communities and more frequent patrols to deter illegal activities. The research highlights the importance of leveraging the Navy's core competencies to strengthen the protection of TRNP, aligning with the principles of environmental security as a non-traditional national security threat.

America’s Forgotten Nuclear Waste Dump in the Pacific

Bikini Atoll Nuclear Test Site — 2015 — WHE5B9C49AF4C

Radiation from the Marshall Islands' nuclear test sites, including the Runit dome—a cement-covered plutonium waste storage facility—has been detected in the South China Sea, highlighting the long-term environmental and security risks of nuclear waste disposal. The study examines how the U.S.'s Cold War-era practices, such as abandoning Bikini Atoll and dumping waste at Enewetak, have left a legacy of contamination that threatens to worsen with rising sea levels and tropical storms. By analyzing this case, the research underscores the urgent need for sustainable solutions to nuclear waste management in the Pacific and globally.

Amphibians and reptiles of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, México, with new records

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2015 — WHEAB4C3413AF

A comprehensive survey of amphibians and reptiles in the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, identified 89 species—20 amphibians and 69 reptiles—including four previously unrecorded species: a snake, a chelonian (turtle or tortoise), and two salamanders. Conducted over three years using opportunistic sampling, transect surveys, and pitfall traps, the study documented 2,359 encounters, contributing critical baseline data for one of Mexico’s most biodiverse UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These findings expand our understanding of herpetofaunal diversity in the region, particularly within its tropical forest ecosystems.

An alternative chronology for the art of Chauvet cave

Decorated Cave of Pont d’Arc, known as Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc, Ardèche — 2015 — WHE945B4F18D6

A re-evaluation of the chronology for the cave art at Grotte Chauvet-Pont d’Arc challenges the traditional dating, suggesting that the 'black series' charcoal drawings may not be as ancient as previously believed. This study argues against relying solely on radiocarbon assays and instead proposes an alternative timeline based on stylistic comparisons, paleontological evidence, and stratigraphic analysis. By integrating multiple lines of evidence, the authors aim to resolve long-standing debates about the age and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site's art, offering a more nuanced understanding of its historical context.

An Ancient Divide in a Contiguous Rainforest: Endemic Earthworms in the Australian Wet Tropics

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2015 — WHE931E8BDFBB

Research on endemic earthworms (Terrisswalkerius) in the Australian Wet Tropics (AWT) reveals that their diversification predates significant climate shifts, tracing back to the Paleogene era. This ancient divergence aligns with biogeographical sub-regions and suggests the AWT has acted as both a repository of biodiversity and a site for ongoing speciation. The study employed phylogenetic analysis and historical biogeography methods (DEC and DIVA) to uncover these patterns, indicating concordant evolutionary processes across different taxonomic levels. These findings underscore the importance of multi-scale analyses in understanding broad-scale geographic diversity.

An Annotated And Illustrated Catalogue Of Polypores (Agaricomycetes) Of The Białowieża Forest (NE Poland)

Białowieża Forest — 2015 — WHECCE198BC7B

A comprehensive catalogue of polypores (Agaricomycetes) in the Białowieża Forest, one of Europe's best-preserved lowland forests, identifies 210 species across 80 genera. The study, spanning literature reviews, herbarium re-examinations, and fieldwork from 1990–2014, confirms the continuous presence of several rare European polypores while introducing 14 new records for the forest, including eight species previously unknown in Poland. Notably, Antrodiella subradula, a fungus known only from Asia, is reported for the first time in Europe. The catalogue also highlights 14 species with uncertain status due to lack of voucher specimens or recent confirmations.

An annotated checklist of the vascular plants of Sundarban Mangrove Forest of Bangladesh

The Sundarbans — 2015 — WHE5C677500E3

A comprehensive annotated checklist identifies 528 vascular plant species in the Sundarban Mangrove Forest of Bangladesh, including 24 true mangroves and 70 mangrove associates. The study reveals a rich diversity with 356 genera across 111 families, dominated by Magnoliopsida (373 species) and Liliopsida (131 species). Notable findings include the dominance of Fabaceae (42 species) in Magnoliopsida and Poaceae (42 species) in Liliopsida, alongside a significant presence of economically important species. Eleven threatened species were also recorded, highlighting the ecological importance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The research employs taxonomic analysis to document plant life forms, distribution patterns, and conservation status, providing critical data for biodiversity studies.

An Assessment of Coliform Bacteria in Water Sources Near Appalachian Trail Shelters Within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2015 — WHE53C113C9EC

A significant proportion of water sources near Appalachian Trail shelters within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park contain coliform bacteria, particularly during the summer season. The study found that 70% of samples tested positive for coliform bacteria and 60% for E. coli in summer, with colony-forming units (CFU) ranging up to 489 CFU/100 mL for coliforms and 123 CFU/100 mL for E. coli. Fall samples showed a lower prevalence, with only 43% positive for coliforms and 14% for E. coli, indicating seasonal variability in bacterial contamination. These findings suggest that water treatment is necessary to meet EPA drinking water safety standards (0 CFU/100 mL) during the summer months, highlighting an infectious disease risk for hikers and campers.

An Assessment of Effects and Durability on Nature Restoration of Oku-River in Okinawa Island

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2015 — WHE3F8456DCCF

A nature restoration project on the Oku River in Okinawa Island successfully restored the habitat of Ryukyu-ayu, a fish species extinct in the wild on the island. The project involved removing drop structures and restoring pools by withdrawing riverbanks to prevent water leakage and revive riffle-pool structures. Investigations confirmed improved fish habitats and riverbed forms, while numerical simulations demonstrated that these changes maintained the original longitudinal profile of the river and sustained pool functions for at least a decade. This study highlights effective strategies for long-term ecological restoration in riverine ecosystems.

An ecological assessment of Hispid Hare Caprolagus hispidus (Mammalia: Lagomorpha: Leporidae) in Manas National Park, Assam, India

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary — 2015 — WHE62687163AF

Manas National Park, Assam, holds the highest recorded density of Hispid Hare (Caprolagus hispidus) at 381.55 individuals per km², significantly surpassing previous estimates from other regions. This rare lagomorph exhibits a clumped distribution pattern, favoring dense, dry savannah grasslands dominated by Imperata cylindrica and Saccharum narenga while avoiding recently burned or wet alluvial areas. The study, conducted between 2009 and 2010, employed transect surveys to assess presence through indirect evidence such as pellets in 20 grassland patches across 2.65 hectares. Key threats to the species—including habitat loss from overgrazing, unsustainable thatch harvesting, burning, weed invasion, encroachment, and hunting—were identified, underscoring critical conservation challenges for this threatened species within the UNESCO-listed Manas Wildlife Sanctuary.

An ecological study of sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) in the vicinity of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Maranhão, Brazil

Lençóis Maranhenses National Park — 2015 — WHE9BDA4670C1

A study in Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil, confirms the presence of two sand fly species—Lutzomyia whitmani and Lutzomyia longipalpis—in homes near the park. These species are linked to cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis, respectively, with their abundance likely explaining endemic cases in the region. While L. whitmani is a primary vector for cutaneous leishmaniasis, other sand fly vectors may also contribute. The research highlights the urgent need for sustained surveillance to curb the expansion of these vectors and prevent outbreaks of leishmaniasis. The study employed ecological sampling methods to assess sand fly populations in peridomestic environments.

An edentulous frog (Lissamphibia; Anura) from the Upper Cretaceous (Campanian) Dinosaur Park Formation of southeastern Alberta, Canada

Dinosaur Provincial Park — 2015 — WHE72D5FAD8EC

Paleontologists have identified a unique, toothless frog species, Tyrrellbatrachus brinkmani, from the Upper Cretaceous Dinosaur Park Formation in Alberta, Canada. This discovery highlights an early instance of independent tooth loss in anurans during the Campanian stage, challenging previous assumptions about dental evolution in Mesozoic amphibians. The study analyzed seven incomplete maxillae, revealing distinctive features such as a reduced crista dentalis and a processus pterygoideus, which exclude it from known families like Gobiatidae and Pipidae. Comparisons with another edentulous Mesozoic anuran, Theatonius, suggest no close relationship between the two genera. This finding represents one of the oldest records of tooth loss in non-pipid anurans, offering new insights into the evolutionary history of frogs during the Late Cretaceous.

An EIoT system designed for ecological and environmental management of the Xianghe Segment of China’s Grand Canal

The Grand Canal — 2015 — WHEA4B4381B1A

A novel Environmental Internet of Things (EIoT) system has been developed to enhance ecological and environmental management of the Xianghe Segment of China's Grand Canal, a highly urbanized area. This integrated platform combines digital management and environmental early warning functionalities to monitor water resources, soil–plant biodiversity, waste production, and energy use in real time. The study identifies key monitoring areas based on regional analysis and proposes a three-stage construction approach for the EIoT system, incorporating 'landsenses ecology' to improve ecological planning. This innovative system promises to significantly boost the effectiveness of environmental protection efforts in urbanized heritage sites.

An example of phenotypic adherence to the island rule? – Anticosti gray jays are heavier but not structurally larger than mainland conspecifics

Anticosti — 2015 — WHE1481FB78C4

Gray jays on Anticosti Island, Québec, exhibit a unique phenotypic adherence to the island rule—being approximately 10% heavier than mainland conspecifics without structural size differences. This challenges the assumption that insular populations must evolve distinct genetic traits to achieve larger body masses. Researchers compared body size and mass of gray jays from Anticosti with three mainland populations (two in Québec, one in Ontario) and found no evidence of structural enlargement, suggesting that increased body mass may result solely from denser packing within a mainland-sized frame. This phenomenon could be advantageous in Anticosti's high-density, predator-free environment, offering a potential model for the initial phenotypic step toward island rule compliance.

An Expanding Population of the Giant Liver Fluke (Fascioloides Magna) in Elk (Cervus Canadensis) and Other Ungulates in Canada

Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks — 2015 — WHE3426F9AF77

A resurgence of the giant liver fluke (Fascioloides magna) in the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, previously extirpated by the 1960s, has been documented through a two-decade study. The research, conducted between 1984 and 1991, revealed a significant increase in fluke prevalence among elk (Cervus canadensis), reaching near-universal infection rates (79–100%) by the late 1980s. Super-infections with over 100 flukes became more common, and transmission peaked in wet habitats during late summer to fall. While elk and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) were primary hosts, moose (Alces alces) also showed high prevalence (52–63%), whereas mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus hemionus) had minimal exposure. The study highlights the fluke's adaptability and its potential to cause fatal infections, with at least seven elk deaths attributed directly to F. magna. The findings underscore the need for monitoring in UNESCO-listed areas where ecological shifts may facilitate parasite expansion.