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Fifty Years of Science at the Kluane Lake Research Station

Kluane / Wrangell-St. Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek — 2014 — WHE5DCC3FBF37

Fifty years of scientific research at the Kluane Lake Research Station, established in 1961, have provided invaluable insights into the dynamics of glaciers and high-altitude ecosystems. The station's operations began with a series of logistical challenges, including extreme weather conditions like whiteouts and snowstorms, which necessitated careful planning and adaptation. Despite these hurdles, the research team successfully set up camp on the Kaskawulsh glacier, marking the initiation of long-term scientific studies in this remote UNESCO World Heritage Site. The station's work has contributed significantly to our understanding of glacial processes, climate change impacts, and biodiversity in the region, serving as a cornerstone for Arctic research.

Financial valuation methods in a world under political control: the case of the Canal du Midi (1897-1901)

Canal du Midi — 2014 — WHE0A9D060B78

The Canal du Midi, a monumental 17th-century engineering feat, faced significant economic and political challenges during its later years, culminating in its sale to the French State between 1897 and 1901. This study reveals that the canal's decline was driven by the rise of railway and road transport, coupled with political instability, including revolutions and the establishment of the French Republic. The analysis highlights how outdated financial valuation methods were employed during this period, reflecting the complexities of assessing long-term assets under shifting political control. The research sheds light on the intersection of economic strategies and state intervention in infrastructure management.

Fire exclusion and the changing landscape of Queensland’s Wet Tropics Bioregion 1. The extent and pattern of transition

Wet Tropics of Queensland — 2014 — WHECF95AD3B0A

Fire exclusion is the primary driver of irreversible changes in Queensland’s Wet Tropics Bioregion, with 53% of native vegetation consisting of non-rainforest types dominated by sclerophyll woodlands and forests. Analysis of high-resolution aerial photography and ground truthing revealed that 17% (124,690 ha) of these sclerophyll ecosystems have undergone irreversible transformation, primarily due to rainforest understory invasion preventing canopy regeneration. No climatic or environmental factors beyond altered fire regimes were identified as causative. The study provides the first comprehensive mapping of vegetation condition across the entire bioregion using a 1:50,000 scale GIS database, offering unprecedented insights into landscape-scale impacts of fire exclusion on biodiversity.

Fire, vegetation, and Ancestral Puebloans: A sediment record from Prater Canyon in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado, USA

Mesa Verde National Park — 2014 — WHE668F7F07BD

A sediment core from Prater Canyon, Mesa Verde National Park, reveals that Ancestral Puebloan occupation and climate shifts significantly influenced fire frequency and vegetation over the past 1500 years. The study found two distinct periods of fire activity: before 4080 cal. yr BP, fires occurred at a rate of 2.5–12 per 200 years, while from 4060 cal. yr BP to present, this dropped to 0–2 fires per 200 years. Charcoal deposition increased during Ancestral Puebloan occupation and under moist but increasingly dry conditions, peaking during the transition between the 20th and 21st centuries. The research combines sediment, charcoal, and pollen records to demonstrate the interplay between human activity, climate, and landscape modification in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

First High‐resolution GPR and Magnetic Archaeological Prospection at the Viking Age Settlement of Birka in Sweden

Birka and Hovgården — 2014 — WHE0ACDFC96BD

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and magnetic gradiometer surveys at Birka, a UNESCO-listed Viking Age settlement in Sweden, revealed intricate structural details of the proto-urban site. The non-invasive geophysical methods mapped houses, property boundaries, pathways, and buried town ramparts from multiple construction phases, including a gate. This pioneering 2006 study demonstrated the effectiveness of high-resolution GPR and magnetometry for archaeological prospection in Scandinavian contexts, combining state-of-the-art data processing with GIS-based interpretation to uncover new insights about Birka-Hovgården's layout and development.

First record and establishment of Tuberocephalus (Trichosiphoniella) tianmushanensis Zang, (Hemiptera Aphididae) on ornamental cherry trees in Italy

Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico), Padua — 2014 — WHE2F4A74F550

Researchers report the first confirmed presence and establishment of the Asiatic aphid, Tuberocephalus (Trichosiphoniella) tianmushanensis, in Italy. This species, previously thought to be eradicated in Europe after its initial detection in France in 1993, was found infesting leaf galls on ornamental cherry trees (Prunus subhirtella cv. pendula) at the University Botanical Garden of Padua. Further investigations revealed its presence in plant nurseries across the Veneto region, indicating a successful establishment beyond its initial detection site. The study highlights the species' resilience and potential for spread, posing new challenges for pest management in Italy.

First Record of Rhynchotermes nasutissimus (Silvestri) (Isoptera: Syntermitinae) Associated with Rat Carrion in Brasília, Brazil

Brasilia — 2014 — WHE87ADB48D1D

Researchers documented the first instance of Rhynchotermes nasutissimus, a Neotropical leaf litter-feeding termite, associating with rat carrion in an urban area of Brasília, Brazil. This unusual behavior was observed during March 2012, at the end of the wet season, when ten soldiers and 36 workers were found within the dry remains of a rat exposed for one week. The discovery suggests a potential nutritional deficit driving this atypical foraging strategy. The study highlights an unexpected ecological interaction in urban environments, contributing to our understanding of termite behavior under specific conditions.

First Record of the Gekkonid Genus Cnemaspis Strauch, 1887 from Gunung Mulu National Park, Northern Sarawak, East Malaysia may Represent an Undescribed Species

Gunung Mulu National Park — 2014 — WHE337929017D

Researchers have documented the first occurrence of the gecko genus Cnemaspis in Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Sarawak, East Malaysia. This discovery extends the known range of Cnemaspis cf. kendallii by 550 km northeastward, marking its most northerly record on Borneo. The findings suggest that similar limestone karst habitats in neighboring regions like Sabah, Brunei, and Kalimantan may also harbor this genus. Notably, visible differences in the Mulu specimen compared to others across its distribution range imply the potential presence of an undescribed, cryptic, or locally endemic Bornean species. This record underscores the ecological significance of Gunung Mulu National Park as a critical conservation area of international importance.

First record of the vermetid Petaloconchus varians (d’Orbigny, 1841) on floating marine debris at Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2014 — WHE2339610AE6

Researchers document the first record of the vermetid gastropod Petaloconchus varians rafting on floating marine debris at Ilha Grande, Brazil. This discovery suggests potential for broader distribution through anthropogenic mechanisms, raising concerns about invasive species spread due to increasing waste production. The study highlights the need for further investigation into vermetid dispersion via floating debris, given their high invasion potential in coastal ecosystems.

First records of Freshwater Bivalves of Ilha Grande National Park, Paraná, Brazil

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2014 — WHE87FC066D36

A pioneering study has documented the first records of freshwater bivalves in the floodplain lagoons of Ilha Grande National Park, Paraná, Brazil. The research identified three species: native Pisidium and Diplodon, as well as the invasive Corbicula fluminea. Notably, Diplodon showed highest densities in São João/C lake, while Pisidium sterkianum was prevalent in São João/M lake. The invasive C. fluminea thrived in Jatobá/C lagoon, highlighting its ecological impact. The study underscores the role of abiotic factors—such as granulometric texture, organic matter, and macrophyte banks—in shaping bivalve distribution. These findings are significant for conservation efforts, as they reveal the park's lagoons as potential refuges for native species in the Upper Paraná River floodplain, an area with long gaps in records. The research contributes to understanding the ecology of these mollusks while emphasizing the importance of protecting these heterogeneous lacustrine environments.

Fish assemblages and longitudinal patterns in the headwater streams of the Chencun Reservoir in the Huangshan Area

Mount Huangshan — 2014 — WHEAF38E85171

Human activities significantly disrupt fish assemblage patterns and biodiversity in headwater streams. A study of three tributaries of the Chencun Reservoir in Huangshan found that severe human disturbances—such as urbanization, land-use changes, and river management—altered habitat conditions (e.g., water width, substrate, vegetation cover), leading to a decline in fish diversity and shifts in species composition. While less disturbed streams like Shuxi showed strong elevation-driven fish assemblage gradients, heavily impacted streams like Puxi and Maxi exhibited weakened or lost such patterns. Broadly distributed, tolerant species increased, while sensitive native species declined. The research highlights how sub-watershed-scale human interventions can degrade fish biodiversity and disrupt natural ecological gradients.

Fishes from the Parque Nacional do Pantanal Matogrossense, upper Paraguai River basin, Brazil

Pantanal Conservation Area — 2014 — WHE30779C7FC5

A comprehensive ichthyological survey of the Parque Nacional do Pantanal Matogrossense (PNPM) in Brazil's upper Paraguai River basin revealed 182 fish species, including the first recorded occurrence of the genus Anchoviella in the La Plata basin. This study, conducted across 12 sites during the dry seasons of 2001, 2010, and 2011, contributes critical baseline data for conservation efforts in one of the world's largest permanent wetlands. The findings span three classes, 10 orders, and 41 families, underscoring the PNPM's biodiversity and its significance within the Pantanal Biosphere Reserve—a high-priority Neotropical biome shared by Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay.

Flavius constantius and affairs in Gaul between 411 and 417

Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments — 2014 — WHEE85A7B9319

Flavius Constantius, a prominent figure in the Western Roman Empire during the early fifth century, did not actively influence ecclesiastical appointments in Gaul despite his political power. While he installed Patroclus as bishop of Arles, this was not initiated by him and reflected limited engagement with church leadership compared to his actions under Constantine III. His primary focus during these years (411–417) was managing conflicts with the Goths in Narbonne, who held Galla Placidia hostage, rather than reshaping the episcopate to align with imperial interests. The study challenges prior assertions about Constantius's continuous presence and proactive role in Gaul, highlighting his constrained influence during this period.

Fleshy Saprobic and Ectomycorrhizal Fungal Communities Associated with Healthy and Declining Eastern Hemlock Stands in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park — 2014 — WHE2628CAF001

Eastern hemlock stands in Great Smoky Mountains National Park exhibit significant differences in fungal community structure between healthy and declining trees, with younger stands (Copeland Creek) supporting greater macrofungi richness, diversity, and evenness compared to older stands (Gabes Mountain). The study found that imidicloprid treatment—used to mitigate hemlock decline—reduced ectomycorrhizal fungi evenness near treated trees, while saprobic fungi remained unaffected. Common fungal taxa included Russula fragrantissima, Amanita citrina var. lavendula, and Austroboletus gracilis, with associated vegetation like Striped Maple and American Holly influencing macrofungi occurrence. Conducted from 2006 to 2009, this research contributes baseline data for the All Taxa Biodiversity Inventory (ATBI) in GRSM.

Flood variation and soil nutrient content in floodplain vegetation communities in the Okavango Delta

Okavango Delta — 2014 — WHECECD44FE71

Soil nutrient content in the Okavango Delta's floodplain vegetation zones varies significantly with flood levels, with high floods generally increasing phosphorus and altering pH, sodium, magnesium, calcium, and potassium levels. High floods also increase flooding depth and duration across all zones. These findings have practical implications for molapo farming, suggesting that ploughing should occur immediately after flood recession when soils are moist and nutrient-rich.

Floristic and faunal Cape biochoria: do they exist?

Cape Floral Region Protected Areas — 2014 — WHE47068E9C93

The Cape Floral Region (CFR) and its extended counterpart, the Greater Cape Floristic Region (GCFR), exhibit remarkable biotic distinctiveness, characterized by unparalleled species richness and endemism. This study challenges traditional perceptions of biochoria—biogeographical patterns of species distribution—by assessing whether such patterns exist in both floristic and faunal components of this region. Utilizing a comprehensive review of historical and contemporary literature, the research synthesizes data on climatic conditions, phytogeography, and faunal distributions to evaluate the coherence of these biogeographical units. Findings suggest that while the CFR stands out as a unique floral kingdom, its integration with the succulent Karoo region into the GCFR provides a more coherent biogeographical framework. The study underscores the need for recognizing both the distinctiveness and interconnectedness of the Cape's biodiversity, offering insights critical for conservation efforts in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Fluid chemistry of the low temperature hyperalkaline hydrothermal system of Prony Bay (New Caledonia)

Lagoons of New Caledonia: Reef Diversity and Associated Ecosystems — 2014 — WHE87D4835ACF

Researchers have uncovered the unique fluid chemistry of Prony Bay's hyperalkaline hydrothermal system, revealing a distinct low-temperature environment unlike any other known serpentinizing systems. The study identified submarine vents discharging high-pH fluids (up to pH 11) with temperatures reaching 37°C and hydrogen-rich gases (12-30% H₂). Chemical analysis of 45 water samples from six sites showed that these fluids, originating from meteoric sources, mix with seawater, creating sharp gradients in pH, salinity, and dissolved elements. Notably, the system exhibits supersaturation of Mg- and Mg-Ca carbonates at pH ~10, indicating active brucite formation due to reducing conditions. Unlike fully continental or marine systems (e.g., Oman or Lost City), Prony Bay's hyperalkaline discharge is unique, offering insights into serpentinization processes in ultramafic environments.

Foraging diversity in lactating New Zealand sea lions: insights from qualitative and quantitative fatty acid analysis

New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands — 2014 — WHECEAE0CF198

Lactating New Zealand sea lions exhibit distinct foraging strategies that significantly impact their energy expenditure and diet composition. Benthic foragers, which dive deeper and spend more time at sea, show higher energy costs compared to mesopelagic conspecifics but do not compensate with higher-energy prey. Fatty acid analysis revealed significant differences in blubber profiles between the two foraging types (global R = 0.30, p = 0.001), indicating divergent prey resource use despite overlapping diet components. Quantitative fatty acid signature analysis further confirmed distinct dietary contributions (global R = 0.17, p = 0.022). The study suggests that benthic foraging may represent a trade-off between increased energy expenditure and reduced competition with trawling fisheries, highlighting the ecological adaptability of this species in the New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands.

Forest Carbon Stocks in Lowland Area of Simien Mountains National Park: Implication for Climate Change Mitigation

Simien National Park — 2014 — WHE11BB5C5520

Simien Mountains National Park's lowland forests store significant carbon, with mean above-ground and below-ground biomass carbon stocks of 270.89±154.50 t ha⁻¹ and 54.18±30.81 t ha⁻¹ respectively, alongside 242.51±46.42 t ha⁻¹ in soil organic carbon. These findings highlight the park's potential for climate change mitigation, with 20 species contributing to a total of 2334 trees and shrubs (DBH ≥5 cm). The study used allometric models (Brown, 1998) for above-ground biomass and below-ground-to-above-ground ratios (MacDicken, 1997) to estimate carbon stocks, while dead wood, leaf litter, herb/grass, and soil organic carbon were assessed via quadrate sampling and lab analysis. This research underscores the ecological value of Simien's lowland forests in Ethiopia's climate change mitigation efforts.

Forms and Woodwork Techniques of Axe and Adze from Traces Left on Building Components Built Between the Asuka Period and Kamakura Period

Ancient Capitals of Asuka and Fujiwara — 2014 — WHE638FCE869C

Axes and adzes used between the Asuka (6th–8th century) and Kamakura (12th–14th century) periods exhibited versatile functions beyond modern applications. Traces on wooden building components reveal that axes were primarily employed for lumbering, cutting raw wood into coarse blocks, while adzes served multiple purposes—shaping vertical splits, chipping surfaces, and creating flat or rounded features like joints, convex, and concave forms. Unlike today’s specialized use, these tools were integral to both rough and fine woodworking, reflecting advanced craftsmanship in ancient Japanese architecture.