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Figurative monuments and rock art traditions of the Kazakh Steppes

Saryarka – Steppe and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan — 2018 — WHEFF4962BAB2

Ancient petroglyphs in Saryarka, Kazakhstan's vast steppes, serve as both sacred landmarks and navigational guides for nomadic herders. These figurative monuments, found on rocky outcrops and riverbanks, act as 'lighthouses' in the open landscape, marking key pastures and directions. The study identifies 27 such sites within the Karaganda region, highlighting their cultural significance through myths and legends. Research focuses on integrated analysis, classification, and documentation of these petroglyphs, which reflect pre-literate societies' knowledge and communication methods. The findings underscore their role in preserving historical narratives and navigational traditions.

Final Middle Paleolithic of Mongolia

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape — 2018 — WHEA1BB63A75C

Mongolia's Final Middle Paleolithic era is marked by distinct flint industries, characterized by Levallois cores and a diverse toolkit including scrapers, denticulate tools, notched items, and rare bifacial tools. These complexes, found across Western Mongolia, the Arts-Bogdo ridge, Flint Valley, Tsagaan-Agui Cave, and the Orkhon Valley's Orokh-Nor-1 and 2 sites, among others, laid the foundation for Early Upper Paleolithic culture. The research highlights a unique industrial base, with minimal radial splitting and a predominance of flaky industries, suggesting sophisticated stone-working techniques. This study, based on archaeological findings from stratified sites like Orkhon-1 and Tolbor group in Khangai Mountains, provides insight into the technological advancements and cultural transitions during this pivotal period.

Financing the sustainable management of Rwanda's protected areas

Nyungwe National Park — 2018 — WHE40C2E7737B

A novel analysis reveals that enhancing tourism experiences at Rwanda's Nyungwe National Park yields greater economic benefits for park management and regional well-being compared to mere adjustments in visitation fees. The study integrates stated preference techniques with regional computable general equilibrium modeling, capturing multisectoral impacts—direct, indirect, and induced—to assess revenue generation strategies. This approach demonstrates significant potential for improving sustainable park operations while addressing budget constraints, offering a scalable model for other protected areas facing similar financial challenges.

Fine-Scale Evaluation of Giant Panda Habitats and Countermeasures against the Future Impacts of Climate Change and Human Disturbance (2015–2050): A Case Study in Ya’an, China

Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries - Wolong, Mt Siguniang and Jiajin Mountains — 2018 — WHE11B2D22298

A comprehensive study predicts that giant panda habitats in Ya’an, China, will expand under climate change alone but shrink significantly (58.56%) when human disturbance is factored in, with suitable habitat shifting westward, northward, and eastward. Unlike previous research showing habitat loss due to climate change, this study found potential increases, emphasizing the critical role of human activity in shaping conservation outcomes. The research used MaxEnt modeling under two scenarios—climate change alone and coupled with human disturbance—to identify priority regions for expansion within the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries UNESCO World Heritage site. It also highlighted gaps in current conservation networks, suggesting two specific areas for future protection based on high-resolution remote-sensing data and field investigations.

Fire regulates the abundance of alien plant species around roads and settlements in the Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park — 2018 — WHE0A6413DFA7

Fire significantly reduces the abundance of alien plant species in the Serengeti National Park, contrary to findings in other African savannahs. The study identified 15 alien species with an 80% probability of occurrence within 50 meters of roads or settlements. While no difference was found between road and settlement proximity, alien species presence declined with distance from these sources. Cumulative fire frequency over the past 13 years was the most critical factor in limiting alien plant cover, though some species like Tagetes minuta thrived with more frequent fires. This research highlights the complex interaction of alien plants with fire, suggesting that traditional fire management may not be effective and advocating for alternative approaches such as physical removal or biological control.

Fire risk assessment of UNESCO Historic Villages by heat flux from forest fire

Historic Villages of Korea: Hahoe and Yangdong — 2018 — WHEFBB2644B57

A significant portion of the UNESCO-listed Historic Villages of Korea, particularly those with timber-framed houses and thatched or shingled roofs, face substantial fire risk from forest fires. Research on Yangdong Village revealed that approximately 10% of its structures are directly exposed to high heat flux during forest fires, while another 5% may experience indirect effects due to the spread of initial blazes. The study employed GIS analysis to map house locations and construction materials, combined with numerical modeling of heat flux, to assess vulnerability. Findings underscore the critical need for targeted fire prevention strategies, including fuel elimination, increased separation distances between structures, and improved waterproof facilities to mitigate risks.

First fully diurnal fog and low cloud satellite detection reveals life cycle in the Namib

Namib Sand Sea — 2018 — WHE70405F8966

A groundbreaking algorithm has been developed to detect fog and low clouds (FLCs) over land using only infrared geostationary satellite data, marking the first fully diurnal detection method capable of revealing detailed diurnal and spatial patterns. Applied to the Namib Sand Sea this approach achieved high accuracy with a 94% probability of detection and a 97% overall correctness rate. The study found that FLC timing and persistence vary with proximity to the coast, indicating advection-driven processes dominate the region. This novel method not only advances our understanding of Namibian FLCs but is also transferable for long-term data retrieval in other regions.

First Record of a Coelacanth Fish from the Middle Triassic Meride Limestone of Monte San Giorgio (Canton Ticino, Switzerland)

Monte San Giorgio — 2018 — WHE6CA4225FB5

Paleontologists have uncovered the first fossil evidence of a coelacanth fish, specifically from the genus Heptanema, in the Middle Triassic Meride Limestone Formation at Monte San Giorgio. This discovery marks the first recorded occurrence of an actinistian (a lobe-finned fish) in this formation, offering new insights into the evolutionary history of these ancient vertebrates. The specimen, identified as Heptanema sp., shares key anatomical features with the previously described H. paradoxum from Northern Italy but exhibits differences likely attributable to ontogenetic stages. The study also attempts to elucidate the phylogenetic relationships of Heptanema, contributing to our understanding of coelacanth evolution during the Triassic period.

First record of the invasive Asian date mussel Arcuatula senhousia (Benson, 1842) (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Mytilidae) in West Africa

Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago – Omatí Minhô — 2018 — WHECB7669FC30

Researchers have documented the first occurrence of the invasive Asian date mussel, Arcuatula senhousia, in West Africa. A single live specimen was discovered on a mudflat near Bubaque Island in Guinea-Bissau's Bijagós Archipelago, marking an expansion of this species' range beyond its previously recorded distributions in North America, Oceania, and the Mediterranean. The finding raises concerns due to the ecological significance of the region, which serves as a critical wintering ground for shorebirds and supports local fisheries. Given the invasive nature of A. senhousia, further monitoring is recommended to determine if a self-sustaining population has established in the area.

First record of the Phoenix Islands damselfish Plectroglyphidodon phoenixensis (Schultz, 1943) from the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands

Papahānaumokuākea — 2018 — WHE00A63DE9C1

Researchers have documented the first occurrence of the Phoenix Islands damselfish, Plectroglyphidodon phoenixensis, within the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands (NWHI), a region renowned for its high levels of endemism and biogeographical ties to Johnston Atoll. Nine individuals were observed at French Frigate Shoals in September 2017, extending the known range of this species into the north central Pacific. The discovery was made through skin diving surveys in shallow, surgy rocky subtidal habitats, which are under-sampled yet critical for this species. Notably, no individuals were found at nearby Nihoa or Mokumanamana, suggesting habitat specificity. Given the lack of a reproducing population in Hawai’i, Johnston Atoll likely serves as the primary source of propagules for P. phoenixensis. This finding sheds light on the species' distribution and habitat preferences while highlighting the importance of targeted surveys in understudied environments.

First stop human depredation to double the number of Bengal tigers

Sundarbans National Park — 2018 — WHE4D82381DC3

A critical threat to Nepal's tiger conservation efforts is the increasing human-tiger conflict, which could hinder the country's goal of doubling its Bengal tiger population by 2022. Despite a successful zero-poaching strategy for rhinos, similar measures have failed to reduce tiger attacks on humans. Between 2009 and 2015, tigers killed 29 people in Nepal, while only two tigers were killed by humans. This imbalance highlights the need for a 'zero-human-casualty' strategy to protect both tigers and local communities. The study suggests mitigating conflicts through habitat restoration, spatial zoning of grazing areas, alternative livelihoods, and tiger translocation as a last resort. Effective conservation requires political commitment, legal enforcement, and collaborative efforts between governments and conservation partners.

Fishing Cat Prionailurus viverrinus Bennett, 1833 (Carnivora: Felidae) distribution and habitat characteristics in Chitwan National Park, Nepal

Chitwan National Park — 2018 — WHEF3FB11F00F

A rare glimpse into the elusive Fishing Cat's (Prionailurus viverrinus) presence in Chitwan National Park, Nepal, reveals its limited distribution and specialized habitat preferences. Through systematic camera-trap surveys spanning 868 days across four blocks of the park, researchers documented only five individuals at three locations, primarily in tall grasslands near oxbow lakes and riverbanks. This study highlights critical threats to the species, including wetland shrinkage, prey depletion, and human persecution, while emphasizing the urgent need for conservation actions such as wetland restoration, reduced human pressure, and increased fish densities. The findings underscore the importance of targeted research, such as genetic diversity studies and radio-tagging, to better understand and protect this threatened felid within UNESCO-listed Chitwan National Park.

Flautas Triples de Jaina y Copán. un Estudio Arqueoacústico

Maya Site of Copan — 2018 — WHE1EA2D86A56

A groundbreaking archaeoacoustic study reveals that ancient Maya flutes from Jaina and Copán, Honduras, emitted a diverse range of sounds, offering new insights into the role of acoustics in Maya communication. The research analyzed two triple-hole flutes—one from Jaina and another from an burial site at Copán—to explore their sonic potential, manufacturing techniques, and cultural significance. By examining these artifacts, the study provides evidence that sound was a vital medium for social interaction among pre-Hispanic Maya societies, marking a significant advancement in understanding non-verbal communication in Mesoamerican cultures.

Fleas (Insecta: Siphonaptera) Associated to the Endangered Neotropical Marsupial Monito del Monte (Dromiciops gliroides Microbiotheria: Microbiotheriidae)in its Southernmost Population of Argentina

Los Alerces National Park — 2018 — WHE49BC8946F5

Researchers document the first record of two flea species, Plocopsylla (Schrammapsylla) diana and Chiliopsylla allophyla allophyla, infesting Dromiciops gliroides—an endangered marsupial—in Los Alerces National Park, Argentina. This extends the known range of these parasites to Patagonia and provides new insights into the biodiversity and ecology of the monito del monte, the sole surviving member of the order Microbiotheria. The study contributes critical data on parasite-host dynamics in one of South America’s most threatened temperate forests.

Flip 2: Sob a Máscara do Fetichismo da Mercadoria sobre a Segunda Edição da Festa Literária de Paraty

Paraty and Ilha Grande – Culture and Biodiversity — 2018 — WHE03E5CB6A84

The second edition of the Festa Literária de Paraty (FLIP), held from July 7 to 11, 2004, in the historic city of Paraty, Brazil, revealed how cultural heritage sites can both preserve their colonial-era architectural legacy and adapt to modern economic pressures. Despite the decline of its gold and coffee booms, Paraty retained enough of its original structure to be designated a national historical monument, illustrating the resilience of heritage conservation amid economic shifts. The study analyzes this paradox through the lens of commodity fetishism, examining how market forces interact with cultural preservation efforts in UNESCO-recognized sites.

Flora del Parque Arqueológico de Copán, Honduras

Maya Site of Copan — 2018 — WHEF8B5D98B4F

A comprehensive study of the flora within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Copán, Honduras, reveals 94 plant species, with eudicotyledons dominating at 76%, followed by monocotyledons (16%) and basal angiosperms (10%). The Fabaceae family emerged as the most diverse, hosting 10 species. Through nine linear transects of 0.1 km, researchers identified 57 arboreal and shrub species, counting a total of 605 individuals, with Brosimum alicastrum being the most abundant. Notably, two species—Cedrela odorata L. and Swietenia macrophylla—are categorized as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List and listed under Appendix III of CITES. The study underscores the significant potential of these species for medicinal, industrial, and forestry applications, highlighting their ecological and economic importance.

Floristic Composition and Indigenous Uses of Poaceae and Cyperaceae Family in Bolpur-Santiniketan

Santiniketan — 2018 — WHEBF9F5AF605

A survey of the Bolpur-Santiniketan region in West Bengal, India, identified sixteen grass species belonging to the Poaceae and Cyperaceae families. This study contributes to the documentation of local floristic diversity by systematically collecting, drying, mounting, and identifying each plant species on herbarium sheets. The research provides a baseline for understanding the indigenous uses and ecological significance of these grasses in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering valuable insights into the region's botanical richness.

Floristic diversity in Valley of Flowers National Park, Indian Himalayas

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2018 — WHE1F836F3D5A

A comprehensive documentation of the floristic diversity in Valley of Flowers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Indian Himalayas, reveals 614 plant taxa, including 31 threatened species, five endemics, and one invasive species. This study significantly expands the known flora of the region by recording 72 new plant species for the first time. The research highlights the rich biodiversity of this high-altitude ecosystem and underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect its unique plant life. The findings contribute valuable data for understanding the ecological significance and conservation priorities of this globally recognized site.

Floristic Diversity, Community Composition and Structure in Nanda Devi National Park After Prohibition of Human Activities, Western Himalaya, India

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks — 2018 — WHE3294558C23

A ban on human activities in Nanda Devi National Park since 1983 has led to significant positive changes in plant diversity, forest composition, and ecological conditions. The study documented 409 plant taxa across 71 families, with dominant forests comprising Betula utilis along the timberline and mixed Abies spectabilis-B. utilis communities. Alpine meadows like Dibrugheta exhibited the highest species richness (128 taxa). Population structure analysis revealed variations in seedling, sapling, and tree layers across different communities. Comparison with earlier studies from 1993 and 2003 highlights the ecological recovery post-prohibition, providing a baseline for future assessments and informing conservation strategies within UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Flussbad Berlin Re-Naturalization Project for the Spree River in the Museum Island

Museumsinsel (Museum Island), Berlin — 2018 — WHE65F534C1F7

A re-naturalization project for the Spree River, centered around Berlin's Museum Island, demonstrates how urban regeneration can integrate ecological sustainability with historic preservation. The Flussbad Berlin initiative treats the river as a public space and resource, addressing contemporary challenges like environmental stewardship, community engagement, and public-private collaboration. By conceptualizing Berlin as a 'dialogic city,' the project fosters diverse interactions that promote sustainable development while revitalizing a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This approach offers a model for balancing urban renewal with ecological restoration in historic contexts.