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Description of Meloidoderita salina sp. n. (Nematoda, Sphaeronematidae) from a micro-tidal salt marsh at Mont-Saint-Michel Bay in France

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2012 — WHE2FB714CB8D

A new nematode species, Meloidoderita salina, has been discovered in the micro-tidal salt marsh of Mont-Saint-Michel Bay, France. This is the first member of its genus found in a saline environment, characterized by unique features such as a cystoid formation with a sub-cuticular hexagonal beaded pattern and distinct morphological traits in both adult females and males. Phylogenetic analysis using small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences revealed that M. salina is closely related to Sphaeronema alni but diverges from other Criconematina species, suggesting a unique evolutionary path for this halophilic nematode.

Description of the larva and redescription of the adult male of Diamphipnoa helgae Illies, 1960 (Plecoptera: Diamphipnoidae)

Los Alerces National Park — 2012 — WHECA19F2E06E

Researchers have provided the first detailed description of the larval stage and a comprehensive redescription of the adult male of Diamphipnoa helgae, a stonefly species endemic to Los Alerces National Park in Argentinean Patagonia. This discovery sheds new light on the life cycle and taxonomy of this poorly studied genus, contributing critical data for biodiversity research in UNESCO-listed sites. The study employed in situ rearing techniques within the park, allowing for direct observation and morphological analysis of both larval and adult specimens. These findings enhance our understanding of Patagonian aquatic ecosystems and highlight the importance of preserving such unique habitats.

Description of three Rhacophorus tadpoles (Lissamphibia: Anura: Rhacophoridae) from Sarawak, Malaysia (Borneo)

Gunung Mulu National Park — 2012 — WHE9673ED1404

Scientists have identified and described the larval forms of three Rhacophorus frog species—R. rufipes, R. penanorum, and R. dulitensis—from Gunung Mulu National Park in Sarawak, Malaysia (Borneo). Using DNA barcoding techniques targeting the 16S rRNA mitochondrial gene, researchers confirmed that larval DNA sequences matched those of adult specimens found at the same site, ensuring accurate species identification. The study provides detailed morphological and coloration descriptions of these tadpoles, along with ecological notes. Notably, R. penanorum tadpoles exhibit adaptations for a lotic, rheophilous lifestyle, while those of R. rufipes and R. dulitensis are classified as generalized benthic-nectonic types. This discovery contributes to the understanding of amphibian biodiversity in one of Borneo's most ecologically significant regions.

Desert labyrinth: lines, landscape and meaning at Nazca, Peru

Lines and Geoglyphs of Nasca and Palpa — 2012 — WHED8D60BD8D2

A groundbreaking analysis of the Nasca Lines in Peru reveals a complex, labyrinthine itinerary that likely served ceremonial purposes. By employing stratigraphic and taphonomic reasoning to identify contemporary lines, researchers uncovered an intricate network of pathways that challenge previous interpretations. This approach, focusing on the original users' perspective rather than aerial views, provides new insights into the functional and symbolic significance of these enigmatic geoglyphs.

Designing a Glass Pavilion to Protect an Ancient Greek Temple

Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae — 2012 — WHEBE8D5EA281

A groundbreaking approach to preserving the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, demonstrates that a glass pavilion can effectively protect ancient limestone structures from environmental degradation while maintaining visual transparency and passive climate control. The study introduces an innovative design featuring 24-meter-span glass beams, eliminating the need for internal columns and ensuring minimal intrusion on the monument's aesthetic integrity. This solution addresses critical challenges of visibility, structural support, and environmental regulation, offering a model for future conservation efforts at similar sites.

Detección ultrasónica de murciélagos insectívoros en cafetales de La Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala — 2012 — WHED2B336B56A

A groundbreaking study in Antigua Guatemala reveals that ultrasonic detection methods can identify a diverse range of insectivorous bat species, significantly increasing the known richness by 87.5% compared to traditional mist-netting techniques. The research, conducted in three coffee plantations, recorded five species—including two not previously documented in the country—and one genus using Anabat™ II detectors. Notably, the study confirmed a 100% complementarity between acoustic and mist-netting data at family, genus, and species levels, underscoring the effectiveness of ultrasonic monitoring for bat biodiversity assessment. Among the findings, Molossus rufus exhibited feeding behavior characterized by high pulse repetition rates in its 'buzz' calls. The study also highlights the potential presence of two threatened Eumops species, emphasizing the need for further specimen collection to update Guatemala's species registry.

Determination of Wolbachia Diversity in Butterflies from Western Ghats, India, by a Multigene Approach

Western Ghats — 2012 — WHE48D3876F21

A groundbreaking study reveals the first detailed analysis of Wolbachia diversity in butterflies from India's Western Ghats, identifying 29 infected species across five families, including a novel infection in the family Papilionidae. Using a multigene approach with five MLST genes, researchers uncovered 15 distinct Wolbachia sequence types (STs), 13 of which are newly documented. The study highlights significant genetic divergence among strains, driven by recombination and point mutations, with MLST providing superior strain separation compared to wsp genotyping. Notably, some butterfly species harbored distinctly different Wolbachia strains, while others shared closely related ones, underscoring the complex dynamics of host-symbiont relationships in this biodiverse region.

Developing sustainable tourism through adaptive resource management: a case study of Machu Picchu, Peru

Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu — 2012 — WHED57C2AC801

An adaptive management approach, rooted in the UN World Tourism Organization's (UNWTO) sustainable tourism framework, emerges as a viable solution to balance the competing demands of conservation, economic growth, and cultural preservation at Machu Picchu. This strategy synthesizes diverse stakeholder goals—encompassing those of the Peruvian government, international conservation groups, tourists, private operators, regional authorities, and indigenous communities—while addressing persistent challenges such as failed carrying capacity proposals (ranging from 800 to 4,000 daily visitors). By integrating multiple perspectives, the approach offers a practical path forward for Machu Picchu, with broader implications for other developing-world tourism destinations grappling with similar socio-economic and political complexities.

Development of an Integrated Surface and Subsurface Model of Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park — 2012 — WHE54245B7137

A groundbreaking integrated surface-subsurface hydrological model of Everglades National Park (ENP) enhances predictive capabilities for simulating flow regimes and forecasting the impacts of topography, water flows, and operational schedules. Developed using MIKE SHE and MIKE 11 software with a resolution of 400 meters, this model covers approximately 1050 square miles, including 110 miles of drainage canals with diverse hydraulic structures. It processes key hydrological data such as evapotranspiration, precipitation, groundwater levels, canal discharges, and operational schedules. Calibrated using data from 1987 to 1997 and verified with 1998 to 2005 data, the model demonstrates high sensitivity to hydraulic conductivity, Manning's roughness coefficient, and leakage coefficients, offering superior accuracy compared to existing models.

Development of Coastal Protection Measures for Small Islands in the Wadden Sea Using a Risk-Based Approach

Wadden Sea — 2012 — WHE17134079F9

A risk-based approach to coastal protection for small islands in the Wadden Sea, particularly the Halligen, demonstrates potential for sustainable and resilient strategies under future climate conditions. This study identifies that traditional and expert-driven methods fall short when accounting for projected sea level rise and increased storm surges. By employing numerical simulations and sensitivity analyses, researchers evaluate hydrological parameters and significant wave heights, revealing critical variations in future storm scenarios. The findings underscore the necessity of adaptive management strategies to balance ecological and economic sustainability while ensuring habitability for future generations on these vulnerable islands.

Development of yolk sac and chorioallantoic membranes in the Lord Howe Island skink, Oligosoma lichenigerum

Lord Howe Island Group — 2012 — WHE11528F66E6

A unique developmental pathway for the yolk sac and chorioallantoic membrane in the oviparous Lord Howe Island skink, Oligosoma lichenigerum, was identified. Unlike viviparous squamates, where the yolk cleft forms a placenta, this species' yolk cleft transforms into a tube-like structure filled with cells, leading to distinct extraembryonic membrane topology. Early development mirrors viviparous species, but the bilaminar omphalopleure persists over the abembryonic yolk surface before being displaced by allantoic mesoderm. The resulting chorioallantoic membrane shares structural similarities but differs in its developmental origin. This study used light microscopy on a developmental series to elucidate these differences, providing insights into the evolutionary adaptations of squamate reproduction.

Developmental defects of the dental crown in chimpanzees from the Taï National Park, Côte D'ivoire: Coronal waisting

Taï National Park — 2012 — WHEC284804F01

Researchers have identified a developmental defect in chimpanzees from Taï National Park, Côte d'Ivoire, characterized by a mild constricted 'waist' on anterior teeth. This condition, observed in 12 out of 23 teeth examined, manifests as an external depression in the enamel surface, more pronounced labially, and is not due to thinning of enamel but rather a slight decrement in dentinal crown volume. MicroCT scans revealed that this defect occurs between 3 and 6 years of age, with maximum expression around 4.3 years, coinciding with the weaning process in chimpanzees. The study suggests that coronal waisting may record physiological experiences during the transition to independence and increased foraging efficiency.

Dhar Tichitt, Walata et Nema

Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata — 2012 — WHE2C018E94C1

Archaeological research reveals that the sandstone cliffs forming a semicircle around the Hodh basin in southern Mauritania were inhabited by Neolithic agro-pastoral communities as early as the beginning of the 2nd millennium BCE. These communities, engaged in millet cultivation, livestock herding, fishing, hunting, and gathering wild grasses, left behind diverse traces including massive villages with complex architecture, rock engravings, tumuli, and surface sites. The study analyzes four spatial scales—domestic, village, sub-regional, and regional—to understand the long-term strategies of habitat implantation, its temporal evolution, and diversification. This research sheds light on how these communities constructed cultural landscapes, reflecting a dynamic 'mental map' that shaped their social and environmental interactions over millennia.

Diagnostic écologique du Parc National lchkeul (Tunisie) après la construction des barrages: cas des oiseaux d'eau

Ichkeul National Park — 2012 — WHE80D5C06995

A dramatic decline of nearly 40 % in waterbird abundance—down to about 60 000 individuals—has been directly linked to the construction of three upstream dams that reduced freshwater inflow and doubled lake salinity, from an average of 13 g l−1 before dams to 27 g l−1 after. This increase in salinity severely depleted Potamogeton and Scirpus populations, key food sources for herbivorous waterbirds such as ducks and coots, leading to their seasonal restriction to small river mouths and eventual disappearance by late autumn. The study analyzed monthly species richness and abundance data from 2001–2004, revealing significant seasonal variation with peaks in November and December (up to 50 000 individuals) and troughs in summer (as few as 1 500). A total of 71 waterbird species were recorded, with herbivores dominating the community but showing the lowest peak abundance since systematic monitoring began. The research supports the hypothesis that freshwater diversion and increased salinity are primary drivers of ecological change, threatening both vegetation and waterbird populations in Ichkeul National Park.

Did Haydn attend the Handel Commemoration in Westminster Abbey?

Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey including Saint Margaret’s Church — 2012 — WHE041DC459C0

While it is widely accepted that Joseph Haydn attended the Handel Commemoration in Westminster Abbey in 1791, a critical reassessment of historical accounts challenges this narrative. The study examines eyewitness testimonies and biographical sources, revealing inconsistencies in the claim that Haydn was deeply moved by Handel's 'Hallelujah Chorus' during the event. Although evidence suggests Haydn may have been present at one of these grand performances—witnessed by industrialist William Gardiner—it does not support the emotional anecdote central to his supposed experience. The research highlights how Pohl’s influential 19th-century account, later repeated by scholars, lacks direct corroboration and may have conflated Haydn’s reactions with other historical observations.

Die diskrete Planungsebene in Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte — 2012 — WHEC0AE8F3B76

Castel del Monte, commissioned by Emperor Frederick II in the 1240s in Apulia, Italy, is revealed to employ a discrete planning system based on the abstract numerical value of the Golden Ratio. This finding suggests that the castle's architectural design may have influenced later structures, including those built in Isfahan, Iran, up to 1600. The study focuses on identifying historical precedents for this abstract measurement system, highlighting Castel del Monte as a key example. By analyzing the castle's blueprint, the research demonstrates how the Golden Ratio was integrated into its design, offering new insights into the mathematical principles underlying medieval architecture.

Die ehemalige Kirche des Klarissinnenklosters in Dürnstein an der Donau

Wachau Cultural Landscape — 2012 — WHED3A569914C

A detailed reconstruction of the medieval appearance of the former church of the Klarissenkloster in Dürnstein, Austria, reveals significant architectural elements that survived its conversion into a grain storage facility. The study, focusing on the transition from a two-aisled Gothic hall to a modified structure, highlights the preserved original state of the choir and the lingering medieval features in the nave despite substantial alterations. By comparing these remnants with other monastic churches, the research contextualizes Dürnstein's church within broader art historical frameworks, offering insights into its original design and the impact of later transformations.

Die Prosopographie von Aphrodisias

Aphrodisias — 2012 — WHEE725255690

A comprehensive prosopography of Aphrodisias, spanning from the Hellenistic period to late antiquity (3rd century BCE–3rd century CE), reveals critical insights into the city's social structures and political evolution. The study, based on epigraphic and literary sources, catalogs approximately 3,480 individuals, enabling the reconstruction of family trees and analysis of broader societal dynamics. It uncovers patterns in naming conventions—such as the spread of Macedonian names during the Hellenistic era and Roman influences in later periods—while also highlighting social hierarchies, professional life, and political participation. This meticulously curated database serves as a foundational resource for further historical and sociopolitical analyses of Aphrodisias.

Diet and Activity Patterns of Black Howler Monkeys Alouatta Caraya (Humboldt, 1812, Primates, Atelidae) in Ecotone Cerrado-Pantanal in the Left Bank of Aquidauana River, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

Pantanal Conservation Area — 2012 — WHEA68AFA74CB

A study on black howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) in the Pantanal Conservation Area revealed unique dietary and activity patterns influenced by the ecotone Cerrado-Pantanal environment. The research found that while resting behavior aligned with genus norms (64.7%), the diet showed higher flower consumption (14.8%) compared to southern populations, with significant seasonal variations—flowers peaking in the dry season (17.8%) and fruits in the rainy season (12.9%). Adults rested more but engaged less in feeding, travel, or social interactions than immature individuals, suggesting group composition impacts behavior. These findings highlight marginal species-specific patterns, likely due to ecological differences in this northern region, underscoring the need for further studies to inform conservation strategies.

Diet and Feeding Behavior of Rhinopithecus brelichi at Yangaoping, Guizhou

Fanjingshan — 2012 — WHE02F076AB7D

A critical food resource for the endangered gray snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus brelichi) in Fanjingshan National Nature Reserve, China, is the buds of Magnolia sprengeri, particularly vital during winter. This study reveals that R. brelichi consumes 107 plant species across 28 families, showcasing a diverse diet adapted to seasonal changes—prioritizing young leaves and flowers in spring, unripe fruits/seeds in summer, ripe fruits/seeds in autumn, and mature leaves/buds in winter. The research highlights the species' ecological adaptability but underscores threats from human collection of M. sprengeri for traditional medicine, advocating community-led conservation efforts to protect this resource.