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Ecological and genetic differentiation in Persea boninensis (Lauraceae) endemic to the Bonin (Ogasawara) Islands

Ogasawara Islands — 2012 — WHE907C2526E5

Research on Persea boninensis, an endemic tree species in the Ogasawara (Bonin) Islands, reveals clear genetic differentiation between populations inhabiting dry and mesic forests. Despite overlapping flowering periods—suggesting potential pre-zygotic isolation—the study found no evidence of post-fertilization reproductive barriers, as artificial crossings between groups successfully produced seeds. This implies that ecological divergence alone may not suffice to maintain long-term genetic separation without additional temporal or habitat-based reinforcement. The findings highlight the complex interplay between phenology and genetics in shaping species differentiation on these remote islands.

Ecological change in the lower Omo Valley around 2.8 Ma

Lower Valley of the Omo — 2012 — WHE53C05801D7

A significant ecological shift occurred in the lower Omo Valley, Ethiopia, around 2.8 million years ago (Ma), marked by a substantial increase in C4 dietary intake among herbivores, including bovids and suids. This change was unexpectedly large and simultaneous across different species, suggesting a common environmental driver despite no evidence of rapid grassland expansion. Stable isotope analysis of tooth enamel from the Shungura Formation revealed higher δ13C values post-2.8 Ma in Tragelaphus nakuae, surpassing levels observed in living tragelaphins, and similar shifts in Kolpochoerus limnetes, challenging assumptions about dietary evolution. These findings highlight a previously underappreciated ecological transformation during the late Pliocene, raising questions about the resolution of ecological proxies and the correlation between vegetation and faunal changes.

Ecological Flexibility of the Top Predator in an Island Ecosystem - Food Habit of the Iriomote Cat

Amami-Oshima Island, Tokunoshima Island, Northern part of Okinawa Island, and Iriomote Island — 2012 — WHE22875092BF

Iriomote cats, as top predators in the island ecosystems of Amami-Oshima, Tokunoshima, northern Okinawa, and Iriomote Islands, exhibit remarkable ecological flexibility in response to prey availability. Unlike specialized predators that strictly follow prey density fluctuations, these cats demonstrate functional responses by dynamically switching their diet based on the abundance and distribution of alternative prey. This adaptability suggests a sophisticated foraging strategy that allows them to thrive in environments with temporal and spatial variations in resource availability.

Ecological management in a cultural landscape

Chief Roi Mata’s Domain — 2012 — WHEF258887F35

A biodiversity survey of Artok, part of Chief Roi Mata’s Domain (CRMD) in Vanuaturevealed the island to be a critical refuge for endangered species, including those listed under IUCN Red List and CITES Appendices. The study identified a low presence of invasive species compared to nearby Efate and documented a potential new subspecies of skink, endemic to Artok. This scientific assessment provided the local ni-Vanuatu community with additional ecological data to strengthen their defense against development pressures and cultural erosion. The research employed a collaborative approach, integrating traditional knowledge with standardized biodiversity surveys, offering a model for holistic ecological management in culturally significant landscapes.

Ecological Restoration of Sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island

Macquarie Island — 2012 — WHEBD6C4AFCCB

A significant reduction in invasive species on Macquarie Island has been achieved through targeted eradication efforts. The study, funded with AUD$24.7M, successfully eliminated ship rats and house mice post-baiting, while the European rabbit population dropped from an estimated 150,000 to fewer than 30. Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) was introduced in 2011 to minimize non-target seabird mortality during aerial baiting. The project employed both aerial baiting and ground hunting, with ongoing monitoring expected for at least two years post-baiting. Early signs of vegetation recovery and increased burrownesting seabird activity were observed within six months, indicating the ecological restoration's positive impact on the island's flora and fauna.

Ecological tiering and the evolution of a stem: the oldest stemmed frond from the Ediacaran of Newfoundland, Canada

Mistaken Point — 2012 — WHE9D00F1C7E2

Research at Mistaken Point, Newfoundland, reveals the oldest known stemmed frond from the Ediacaran period, Culmofrons plumosa. This discovery underscores a significant evolutionary adaptation where rangeomorphs developed sturdy stems to elevate above lower-tier feeding guilds, likely in response to competitive nutrient acquisition. The cylindrical macroscopic stem of C. plumosa, found in the Briscal Formation, marks a departure from typical modular branching patterns and highlights the role of ecological tiering in early ecosystem engineering. The study suggests that competition for dissolved organic nutrients drove this morphological innovation, expanding the functional morphospace available to Ediacaran organisms.

Ecopath 25 years conference proceedings: Extended abstracts

Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California — 2012 — WHE3CD3086520

The Ecopath 25-year conference proceedings highlight the application of trophic modeling tools, such as Ecopath with Ecosim (EwE), to assess and manage marine ecosystems globally. A key finding is the vulnerability of the Central Gulf of California ecosystem to fishing pressures, emphasizing the need for ecosystem-based management strategies. The research showcases diverse applications, including the analysis of fisheries impacts on coral reefs in Bolinao, Philippines, and the ecological effects of moonjelly removal in Japan's Seto Inland Sea. It also explores the potential of marine protected areas (MPAs) to aid in the recovery of fish stocks and ecosystems, as demonstrated in studies from the North Sea and New Zealand. Additionally, the proceedings address the integration of climate change impacts into ecosystem modeling, providing insights into the ecological interactions that determine 'winners and losers' under climate change scenarios.

Editing Nature in Grand Canyon National Park Postcards*

Grand Canyon National Park — 2012 — WHE929DD1B05D

Grand Canyon National Park postcards from the Curt Teich Company (1936–1955) reveal a curated, edited view of nature through systematic visual alterations. Analysis of 259 postcards identified four recurring themes—scenery, vegetation, water, and animals—that were selectively emphasized using 'color embellishment,' a technique enabling repeated modifications during reprinting. This process standardized representations of the canyon as 'wild' or 'grand,' reinforcing cultural perceptions while obscuring natural variability. The study demonstrates how commercial imagery shapes environmental narratives, offering insight into the intersection of commerce, aesthetics, and ecological representation.

Education After Auschwitz in a United Germany

Auschwitz Birkenau German Nazi Concentration and Extermination Camp (1940-1945) — 2012 — WHE4F19B7D1A8

German reunification enabled the establishment of a universalist perspective on the Holocaust, shifting its perception from a uniquely German responsibility to a broader example of totalitarianism. This change allowed for a more inclusive approach to education about National Socialism, integrating values like tolerance and human rights into 'Education after Auschwitz.' The study compares the divergent value systems of East and West Germany before reunification, highlighting how the revision of East Germany's antifascist view facilitated this transition. By analyzing post-1989 educational policies, the research demonstrates that the Holocaust was reframed as a lesson on human rights, drawing parallels with Stalinism to foster universal lessons about totalitarian regimes.

Efecto de los subsidios agropecuarios y apoyos gubernamentales sobre la deforestación durante el período 1990-2000 en la región de Calakmul, Campeche, México

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2012 — WHE8602835A57

Government agricultural subsidies and programs had complex, varying effects on deforestation near the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve (1990–2000). While 'Crédito a la Palabra' initially increased regional deforestation (1990–1993), it later reduced it (1994–1998) at the same scale, with no local-level impact. Conversely, PROCAMPO subsidy recipients deforested less locally, though no regional trend was detected. 'Alianza para el Campo' showed no clear link to deforestation. Additional factors—such as ejido size, agricultural population density (regionally), and parcel distance, family age, tenure time, and size (locally)—also influenced deforestation patterns. The study analyzed 39 ejidos regionally and one locally, revealing that subsidy impacts depended on program type, period, and scale.

Effect of log length on productivity and cost of Timberjack 450C skidder in the Hyrcanian forest in Iran

Hyrcanian Forests — 2012 — WHE7A512D2437

Long-log skidding is more cost-effective than short-log skidding for Timberjack 450C operations in the Hyrcanian forest. The study analyzed 123 skidding cycles, revealing that long-log methods reduced hourly operational costs from $12.69/m³ to $12.40/m³ while maintaining comparable productivity (11.11 m³.effective h⁻¹ vs. 10.86 m³.effective h⁻¹). Key variables—including log volume, skidding distance (380–497 m), slope (18–20%), and travel speeds (5.74–7.67 km/h)—were measured to model time consumption and productivity. Findings suggest optimizing log length could improve efficiency in mountainous broadleaved forests.

Effective environmental interpretation at Chinese natural attractions: the need for an aesthetic approach

China Danxia — 2012 — WHE0C85CA641E

Guided tours employing an aesthetic approach, incorporating stories, art, and poetry, prove more effective for engaging Chinese tourists with natural landscapes compared to traditional cognitive or scientific interpretation methods. Research at China Danxia demonstrates that self-guided signage and information centers are largely ignored by visitors, while guided tours using figurative language, metaphorical descriptions, and emotional storytelling significantly enhance landscape appreciation. This aesthetic approach aligns better with Chinese cultural values and the significance of intangible heritage in landscape perception.

Effectiveness and cost efficiency of monitoring mountain nyala in Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia

Bale Mountains National Park — 2012 — WHE1EECF039FE

A cost-effective monitoring protocol for the endangered mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni) in Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia, offers significant financial savings without compromising effectiveness. The study found that total counts, despite underestimating population size, were more precise and required only 12% of the resources needed compared to distance sampling. This method also demonstrated greater power to detect changes in population size, making it a viable alternative for long-term conservation efforts in resource-limited protected areas like BMNP. The research highlights the importance of evaluating cost efficiency alongside effectiveness when selecting monitoring protocols.

Effects of Severe Floods and Droughts on Wildlife of the Pantanal Wetland (Brazil)—A Review

Pantanal Conservation Area — 2012 — WHE79A9F57402

Severe floods and droughts significantly impact the wildlife of the Pantanal Wetland, Brazil, by altering habitats through tree mortality in riparian forests and modifying ecosystems adapted to seasonal water fluctuations. These extreme weather events, influenced by global climate phenomena like El Niño and La Niña, disrupt both natural systems and human activities such as cattle ranching and ecotourism. The study reviews how these natural disasters affect flora and fauna, emphasizing the need for adaptive wildlife management strategies to mitigate their effects on biodiversity and local economies.

Egyptian and Egyptianizing Objects from EB I-III Tell Es-Sultan/Ancient Jericho

Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan — 2012 — WHE185F0F72A0

Archaeological evidence from Tell es-Sultan (Ancient Jericho) reveals significant Egyptian and Egyptianizing artifacts dating from the Early Bronze Age I-III, shedding light on the complex trade and cultural exchanges between Egypt and the Levant during the 4th to 3rd millennia BCE. The study highlights Jericho's strategic position as a key hub in these interactions, contributing to the rise of early urban centers in the region. Through detailed analysis of these objects, researchers have uncovered the dynamics of commercial and cultural relationships that flourished between Egypt and Palestine during this pivotal period.

Elevation Ranges of Birds at Mount Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park Complex, and Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park — 2012 — WHE6EB31C00EB

A comprehensive analysis of avian elevation ranges in three major Washington parks—Mount Rainier, North Cascades Complex, and Olympic National Park—reveals critical baseline data for 74 bird species, filling a gap left by anecdotal observations. Using systematic point-count surveys conducted at 4030 stations between 2001 and 2004, the study provides precise elevational distributions that are essential for monitoring climate-induced range shifts in wildlife. These findings offer park managers and conservationists outside these pristine ecosystems a reference to compare bird distributions in less undisturbed areas, while also setting the stage for future assessments of how species adapt to changing elevations due to climate change.

Ellora (Mahārāshtra, India)

Ellora Caves — 2012 — WHEC67F26B68B

Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Maharashtra, India, showcase intricate Buddhist artistry and architectural innovation. A standout feature is a vihara cave blending study, dining, and worship spaces, adorned with Vajrayāna bodhisattva imagery—Padmapāni (infinite compassion) and Vajrapāni (universal wisdom). Another cave merges vihara and chaitya elements, using non-structural wooden beam carvings and a stupa symbolizing nirvana. A third, three-story vihara, features lavish decorations with Buddha images, sea dragons, and symbolic motifs on its upper floor. These designs highlight Buddhist religious and artistic traditions while demonstrating advanced cave excavation techniques.

Embedding Embittered History: Unending Conflicts in Thai-Cambodian Relations

Temple of Preah Vihear — 2012 — WHEB712F882FA

Historical overhang, characterized by enduring negative memories from past conflicts, significantly shapes Thai-Cambodian relations, particularly during periods of domestic political instability. This study identifies the distortion of history and the strategic misuse of nationalism as key factors perpetuating these tensions. The research focuses on two major recent crises: the dispute over the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Preah Vihear Temple, and the political rivalry between the Thaksin-Hun Sen alliance and Thailand's Abhisit Vejjajiva government. It contrasts these periods of deterioration with a notable improvement in relations following Abhisit's electoral defeat. The analysis employs qualitative methods to examine how historical narratives are weaponized, revealing their profound impact on bilateral dynamics.

Emergence of social complexity among coastal hunter-gatherers in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile

Settlement and Artificial Mummification of the Chinchorro Culture in the Arica and Parinacota Region — 2012 — WHE2AB24BDF39

Artificial mummification emerged among the Chinchorro culture during a period of increased coastal freshwater availability and marine productivity, which likely drove population growth and accelerated cultural innovation. This study provides empirical and theoretical evidence linking environmental conditions to the development of complex mortuary practices in hunter-gatherer societies. Using a demographic model, researchers suggest that extreme aridity, leading to minimal corpse decomposition, may have made dead individuals a significant part of the landscape, prompting manipulation and the emergence of sophisticated burial techniques.

Empty Promises and False Hopes

Matobo Hills — 2012 — WHE5D69F310CC

Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Zimbabwe, has become a contested cultural landscape due to unfulfilled promises of equitable management and benefit-sharing for local communities. The study reveals that colonial-era laws, which sidelined indigenous practices, persist despite post-independence reforms, leaving Matobo's heritage governance unresolved. Traditional management methods, once enforced by local leaders, were replaced by Eurocentric policies during colonization, leading to resistance and eventually the liberation war (1972–1980). Though independence in 1980 offered hope for redress, three decades later, grievances remain unaddressed, deepening tensions. The research combines historical analysis with ethnographic data to expose the disconnect between heritage policy and community needs.