World Heritage Research: Search

Publications

Showing 30101 – 30120 of 30315 publications

Spatial ecology of adult muskellunge (Esox masquinongy) in the urban Ottawa reach of the historic Rideau Canal, Canada

Rideau Canal — 2010 — WHE1822894337

A unique urban muskellunge population thrives in the Rideau Canal, Canada, with seasonal movements driven by canal operations. Radio-telemetry revealed that adult muskellunge (64–122 cm) exhibit greatest mobility during spring spawning, ranging across the 7 km urban reach before retreating to deeper embayments like Dow’s Lake for winter. None were stranded during canal drainage, though one died from winterkill. Environmental factors—seasonality and water depth—dictate habitat selection, with one fish emigrating upstream through a lock. This study provides critical insights into the spatial ecology of an apex predator in engineered ecosystems, informing conservation efforts to balance heritage and ecological values at this UNESCO-listed site.

Spatial variation in life history characteristics of snapper ( Pagrus auratus ) within Shark Bay, Western Australia

Shark Bay, Western Australia — 2010 — WHEBFEBF0B184

Research in Shark Bay, Western Australia, reveals significant spatial variation in the life history traits of snapper (Pagrus auratus) at scales smaller than tens of kilometers. This study, conducted between 1997 and 2004, found differences in spawning season timing, duration, length and age at maturity, maximum age, and growth rates among populations from the Eastern Gulf, Denham Sound, and Freycinet Estuary. These variations were attributed to environmental conditions and density-dependent responses to fishing-induced changes in spawning biomass. The findings support the notion that local snapper stocks should be managed at fine geographic scales to safeguard both stock productivity and genetic diversity.

Spotting the difference: towards fully-automated population monitoring of African penguins Spheniscus demersus

Robben Island — 2010 — WHE5D3D53DDA8

A novel computer vision system demonstrates high accuracy and efficiency in non-invasive population monitoring of African penguins at Robben Island, South Africa. The system identifies individuals using unique chest plumage markings with a false identification rate below 1 in 10,000 comparisons and a genuine acceptance rate of 96.7%. It successfully monitors over 13% of the penguin population passing a camera, with potential for higher detection under favorable conditions. This approach outperforms traditional flipper banding methods and offers a scalable solution for fully-automated, non-invasive wildlife monitoring, as validated by field testing.

Stability assessment of sandstones from the St. Servatius Church in Quedlinburg (UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, Germany)

Collegiate Church, Castle and Old Town of Quedlinburg — 2010 — WHE50AA995338

Research on the St. Servatius Church in Quedlinburg (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) reveals that its stability issues stem primarily from the poor lithification of Cretaceous sandstone, characterized by high porosity (30–35%) and low compressive strength (8 MPa), which further decreases under moisture. Freeze-thaw tests confirm significant vulnerability to frost weathering, contributing to surface softening. Geotechnical modeling suggests that landslides along bedding planes or shear failure are unlikely, though a monitored clay layer may indicate movement along geological discontinuities. Stability problems are attributed to both construction deficiencies (e.g., foundation deformations) and geological factors such as sandstone weathering, water penetration, and potential shear planes.

Stable isotopic and geochemical variability within shallow groundwater beneath a hardwood hammock and surface water in an adjoining slough (Everglades National Park, Florida, USA)

Everglades National Park — 2010 — WHE53D3710D42

A decade-long monitoring study in the Everglades reveals that shallow groundwater beneath hardwood hammocks remains geochemically stable year-round, contrasting with surface waters that fluctuate due to rainfall dilution and external inputs. Stable isotopic analysis (δ¹⁸O, δD) shows surface water enrichment and evaporation signatures, while shallow groundwater maintains consistent values near -2.4‰ for δ¹⁸O and -12‰ for δD. The study identifies two distinct moisture sources for precipitation—maritime in fall/winter and continental-influenced in spring/summer—with tropical cyclones or fronts as primary recharge mechanisms. Ion chemistry further confirms external canal inputs from drained agricultural areas, highlighting the complex hydrological dynamics of this UNESCO-listed ecosystem.

Staging the Liturgy: The Medieval Altarpiece in the Iberian Peninsula. By JUSTIN E. A. KROESEN.

Routes of Santiago de Compostela: Camino Francés and Routes of Northern Spain — 2010 — WHED1FBB42930

A comprehensive analysis reveals the profound influence of cultural exchanges along pilgrimage and trade routes on medieval altarpiece design in the Iberian Peninsula. The study demonstrates how French, Italian, and Northern European artistic styles infiltrated Spain, shaping both form and style of retables, including the introduction of predellas and hinged winged altarpieces. Additionally, it highlights the coexistence of Christian, Moorish, and Jewish cultures during the early Middle Ages, which facilitated these exchanges. The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating art history, liturgy, geography, and religion to examine the development, accessibility, and use of retables in both liturgical and private contexts. Notable sites such as Santiago de Compostela, Burgos, and Toledo serve as key examples, illustrating the dynamic interplay between local traditions and foreign influences.

Stipa adamii sp. nov. (Poaceae) from the western Tian‐Shan, and some remarks on the taxa of the section Smirnovia occurring in Kazakhstan

Western Tien-Shan — 2010 — WHE86C0FDC44C

A new species of Stipa, Stipa adamii, has been discovered and described from the central Karatau Mountains in Kazakhstan's western Tian-Shan region. This endemic Poaceae species is closely related to Stipa karataviensis but can be distinguished by its longer glumes, lemmas, awns, and callus features, including scabrous lower awn parts and a bearded callus, unlike the glabrous counterparts in S. karataviensis. The study provides a detailed morphological comparison and a key to identify species within Stipa sect. Smirnovia occurring in Kazakhstan, while also clarifying the typification of S. manrakica and synonymizing S. saurica as a new synonym.

Stomach Nematodes (Mastophorus muris) in Rats (Rattus rattus) Are Associated with Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Habitat at Palmyra Atoll

Site of Palmyra — 2010 — WHE65C4EB0C37

Research at Palmyra Atoll reveals that stomach nematodes (Mastophorus muris) in black rats (Rattus rattus) are significantly more abundant in habitats dominated by coconut trees (Cocos nucifera). The study, conducted across 13 islets with varying sizes and habitat types, found that 59% of rats were parasitized, with an average of 12 worms per infected rat. While islet size did not substantially influence parasite dynamics or rat condition, coconut-dominated sites consistently showed higher nematode abundance. This suggests a strong association between the introduced species—both the rats and potentially the coconuts—and their parasitic relationships in this Pacific Line Island ecosystem.

Stratigraphic organisation of a composite macrotidal wedge: the Holocene sedimentary infilling of the Mont-Saint-Michel Bay (NW France)

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2010 — WHED483E2E02F

A significant shift in the sedimentary infilling of Mont-Saint-Michel Bay occurred around 6500 years ago, marking a transition from rapid sea-level rise to a highstand phase. This change reshaped the bay's landscape into three distinct sub-environments: a mud-to-sand flat embayment, an estuarine channel-and-shoal system, and a wave-dominated sandy coast with dune barriers. The study, using vibrocores and high-resolution seismic data, reveals that the highstand phase (post-6500 yr B.P.) dominates the bay's infill, characterized by aggradational units in the back-barrier tidal lagoon and embayment, as well as a sand-dominated tidal channel-and-shoal belt. The interplay between sea-level rise, hydrodynamic forces, sediment supply, and climate changes, alongside the rocky substrate's hypsometry, collectively controls the bay's sedimentary architecture.

Stratigraphic Response Across a Structurally Dynamic Shelf: The Latest Guadalupian Composite Sequence at Walnut Canyon, New Mexico, U.S.A.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park — 2010 — WHE9CFC730636

A structurally dynamic carbonate platform margin, exposed along Walnut Canyon in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico, exhibited significant depositional relief and mechanical failure during the Late Permian. The study reveals that shelf-crest aggradation primarily controlled the shelf profile, but this was temporarily disrupted by syndepositional brittle failure, down-to-the-basin tilting, and mass wasting, creating up to 22 meters of depositional relief. Detailed facies mapping and a refined fusulinid biostratigraphic framework were used to document these processes, including the identification of a paleoescarpment formed by catastrophic margin failure. The research highlights the complex interplay between sedimentary processes and structural dynamics in shaping carbonate platforms.

Stratigraphy and U-Pb detrital zircon geochronology of Wrangel Island, Russia: Implications for Arctic paleogeography

Natural System of Wrangel Island Reserve — 2010 — WHE4508D4C8BB

Wrangel Island, a remote Arctic outpost, offers critical insights into the paleogeographic evolution of the Arctic. Detrital zircon geochronology reveals that its Upper Paleozoic strata likely correlate with those in Alaska, but Triassic turbidites suggest distinct sediment sources from the Urals, Taimyr, and Siberia, indicating Permian-Triassic rifting. The study suggests that the Barents Shelf was once close to the paleo-Pacific margin, challenging previous assumptions about the Amerasia Basin's tectonic evolution. This work provides a foundation for reconstructing Arctic plate movements and assessing hydrocarbon potential in the region.

Structural Analysis Comparing The Minarets of The Selimiye Mosque with Ince Minaret Madrasa

Selimiye Mosque and its Social Complex — 2010 — WHED11CFAA9D4

Anatolian Seljuk minarets, characterized by their slender design and complete construction, introduced a novel footing element that enhances structural stability against earthquakes. This study compares the seismic performance of two minarets—Selimiye Mosque Minaret in Edirne (Ottoman Period) and Ince Minaret Madrasa in Konya (Anatolian Seljuks)—using 3D modeling via SAP2000 software and Pushover Analysis under TEC-2007 guidelines. Findings reveal the structural advantages of the footing element, which softens transitions between pedestal and body while integrating static and visual elements. This research provides critical data for the restoration of masonry minarets, contributing to the preservation of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Structural and seismic indications of the elements of recent and present-day stress fields in several epicentral regions of western Tien Shan

Western Tien-Shan — 2010 — WHEE203583AE2

A study of the western Tien Shan reveals that the region's current tectonic stress field, marked by nearly east-west compressional axes, aligns with recent geological stress patterns. This finding was derived from detailed geostructural and tectonophysical analyses across key epicentral zones, including Talas-Suusamyr, Chatkal-Kurama, Turkestan-Zarafshan, Gissar, and Nurata-Kyzylkum. The research also shows that strong earthquakes in these folded-mountain regions are linked to thrust/strike-slip faulting and the fragmentation of large tectonic blocks, providing critical insights into the region's seismic activity.

Structural Geology of Robben Island: Implications for the Tectonic Environment of Saldanian Deformation

Robben Island — 2010 — WHEB712B0F38B

A detailed structural and lithologic analysis of Robben Island reveals that the Tygerberg Formation, part of the Neoproterozoic to early Cambrian Malmesbury Group, likely formed in a forearc or trench slope environment. The study identifies pervasive northwest-southeast striking subvertical pressure solution cleavage and upright folds with varying plunge directions, consistent with oblique transpressional strain. While the exact nature (sinistral or dextral) of this strain remains uncertain, sinistral transpression is considered more plausible due to regional geological context. This research provides new insights into the tectonic environment of the Saldanian deformation and contributes to understanding the structural history of Robben Island.

Struggles at holy sites and their outcomes: the evolution of the Western Wall Plaza in Jerusalem

Old City of Jerusalem and its Walls — 2010 — WHEAE72CD3C53

The Western Wall Plaza in Jerusalem reflects the complex interplay of religious, political, and social dynamics that have shaped its evolution. This study reveals how conflicting demands—ranging from Orthodox Jewish requirements for gender-segregated prayer spaces to archaeological interests in excavation, military ceremonial needs, and tourism promotion—led to a negotiated layout that balances these competing priorities. Using a historiosophic approach, the research analyzes the struggles between religion and state, the status of religious movements within Israel, and broader social issues such as women's rights. The findings underscore how holy sites serve as arenas for broader societal debates, illustrating the tension between tradition, modernity, and governance in one of Jerusalem's most significant landmarks.

Summer Hot Snaps and Winter Conditions: Modelling White Syndrome Outbreaks on Great Barrier Reef Corals

Great Barrier Reef — 2010 — WHE5CE37953E1

A strong correlation (r² = 0.953) exists between summer thermal anomalies and outbreaks of coral diseases known as white syndromes on the Great Barrier Reef, with particularly hot snaps during summer significantly increasing disease abundance. The study also found that cold winters reduce outbreak risk, possibly by lowering pathogen levels, while mild winters often precede outbreaks. Warm winters, however, appear to enhance coral resistance. By integrating winter and summer thermal data, researchers developed a predictive model offering a Seasonal Outlook of disease risk three-to-six months in advance and near real-time monitoring during summer. This satellite-derived system aims to aid reef managers in preparing for and responding to potential disease outbreaks, particularly in the context of rapidly changing climate conditions.

Surface water–groundwater exchange in transitional coastal environments by airborne electromagnetics: The Venice Lagoon example

Venice and its Lagoon — 2010 — WHEBA96BC4E4C

A novel application of airborne electromagnetics (AEM) reveals critical hydrogeological features in the Venice Lagoon, offering unprecedented insights into saltwater intrusion and freshwater transitions in coastal aquifers. The study demonstrates that AEM, combined with spatially constrained inversion (SCI), can accurately map subsurface processes to depths of 200 meters, distinguishing between salt-saturated and fresher sediments beneath the lagoon floor. This method provides a cost-effective and rapid alternative to traditional techniques, enhancing our understanding of groundwater dynamics in transitional coastal environments worldwide. The findings underscore AEM's potential to improve hydrogeological characterization in lagoons, wetlands, and deltas, which are ecologically and socio-economically vital.

Survival and Mortality of Cougars in the Trans-Pecos Region

Carlsbad Caverns National Park — 2010 — WHE37B4C251E0

Cougars in the Trans-Pecos region, including Carlsbad Caverns National Park, exhibit among the lowest survival rates in the United States, with seasonal variations influenced by hunting periods. A study analyzing data from 1982 to 1997 across multiple parks and a state park found that female cougars generally had higher annual survival rates than males. Pooled data revealed lower survival rates during hunting seasons (September–March) at Carlsbad Caverns, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and Big Bend Ranch State Park, while Big Bend National Park showed no seasonal difference. Trapping was the leading cause of mortality, followed by shooting and unknown causes; intraspecific strife and natural causes were documented only in Big Bend. The findings underscore the need for careful consideration of survival rates in management plans, though caution is advised against broad regional extrapolation.

Survival of the fittest: a comparison of medicine and health on Lord Howe Island and St Kilda

St Kilda — 2010 — WHE05F7AC92E1

A stark contrast emerges between the health outcomes of two isolated island communities: Lord Howe Island and St Kilda. While both share similarities, their fates diverged dramatically due to differences in medicine and health practices. The study hypothesizes that these disparities largely explain the success of one society and the failure of the other. By comparing the characteristics of the two islands, the research sheds light on how health and disease management can shape survival in extreme environments. This comparative analysis highlights critical factors influencing community resilience and longevity.

Surviving the Mid-Fifteenth-Century Recession: Durham Cathedral Priory, 1400–1520

Durham Castle and Cathedral — 2010 — WHE50B7ED6192

Durham Cathedral Priory demonstrated remarkable resilience during the mid-fifteenth-century recession, achieving significant financial improvement despite economic stagnation in the North-East of England. By 1519/20, the priory had reduced combined arrears and decay from £540 to just £18 while increasing overall rents by £130. This success was driven by adaptive management strategies, including improved rent collection processes and repair practices, which enhanced efficiency. The study reveals that landlords actively engaged in leasing reforms, challenging the notion of passive decline during this period. These findings suggest regional economic recovery, as indicated by rent collection improvements, even when traditional indicators like cash tithe receipts failed to show signs of improvement.