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Long-Term Peatland Condition Assessment via Surface Motion Monitoring Using the ISBAS DInSAR Technique over the Flow Country, Scotland

The Flow Country — 2018 — WHE1079DA18B2

Research demonstrates the potential of the Intermittent Small BAseline Subset (ISBAS) technique to monitor long-term surface motion over peatland areas, offering a new tool for assessing peatland condition. Unlike traditional InSAR methods, ISBAS can effectively measure surface motion in vegetated and less coherent environments like peatlands. The study applied this technique to the Flow Country in Scotland using ERS C-band (1992–2000) and Sentinel-1 C-band (2015–2016) satellite data, identifying subsidence patterns linked to land cover and use. While ISBAS measurements aligned with ground data trends, uncertainties in magnitude and direction were noted. The findings suggest that ISBAS could be a valuable method for tracking peatland degradation or recovery, though further validation is required.

Longest recorded trans-Pacific migration of a whale shark (Rhincodon typus)

Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection — 2018 — WHEF14FC53DB0

A whale shark (Rhincodon typus) has been documented completing the longest recorded trans-Pacific migration, traveling over 20,000 kilometers from Coiba Island (Panama) to the Mariana Trench in the western Indo-Pacific. This female whale shark, tagged in Panama's Tropical Eastern Pacific, traversed the North Equatorial Current over 841 days, providing evidence of connectivity between ocean basins and potential migratory pathways into the Philippine Sea and South China Sea. The study utilized satellite tracking to map this unprecedented journey, offering new insights into the movement patterns and population dynamics of whale sharks across vast distances.

Los guardianes silenciosos de la Quebrada de Humahuaca: etnobotánica del “cardón” (Trichocereus atacamensis, Cactaceae) entre pobladores originarios en el Departamento Tilcara, Jujuy, Argentina

Quebrada de Humahuaca — 2018 — WHE7F816EF10A

A concerning decline in the health of 'cardón' cacti (Trichocereus atacamensis) and their habitat in Argentina's Quebrada de Humahuaca threatens both ecological stability and traditional Kolla cultural practices. Despite socioenvironmental changes, indigenous communities maintain strong, culturally significant relationships with these emblematic plants, using them for various purposes and possessing deep knowledge of their morphology, ecology, and distribution. The study reveals a pressing need for conservation strategies to safeguard the cacti's health and preserve associated vernacular knowledge. Researchers conducted an ethnobotanical survey in Tilcara, Jujuy, gathering narratives on uses, ecological roles, and cultural significance while assessing the plants' phytosanitary status.

Los nudos del ejido: disputas y relaciones intraejidales en Calakmul, Campeche

Ancient Maya City and Protected Tropical Forests of Calakmul, Campeche — 2018 — WHE2E662DD6C6

Conflicts over land tenure, resource access, and government support in the ejidos of Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico, reveal deep-seated tensions exacerbated by neoliberal policies. Through ethnographic research—including in-depth interviews and focus groups—the study identifies a pattern of resentment and rivalry between long-standing ejidatarios (ejido members) and non-related settlers, driven by competing strategies for market participation and survival. Findings suggest that current government programs, while intended to support rural communities, often inadvertently fuel intra-ejidal disputes. The research underscores the need to rethink agrarian conflict resolution in light of these unintended consequences.

Louis Kahn en la costa de Amalfi (1929)

Costiera Amalfitana — 2018 — WHEE3DB3C9A71

A new analysis of Louis Kahn's 1929 sketches from the Amalfi Coast reveals previously unidentified locations and provides more precise details for ten drawings. The study sheds light on Kahn's artistic intent, graphic style, and influences, including techniques popularized in 1920s America, while also examining the potential impact of these travel drawings on his later architectural projects. This research builds upon earlier work by Jan Hochstim (1991) and an exhibition in Chicago and New York (1996), offering a deeper understanding of Kahn's early engagement with Italian landscapes.

Low‐Temperature Thermochronology of the Chatkal‐Kurama Terrane (Uzbekistan‐Tajikistan): Insights Into the Meso‐Cenozoic Thermal History of the Western Tian Shan

Western Tien-Shan — 2018 — WHE88F5547292

A new thermochronological study of the Chatkal-Kurama terrane in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan reveals distinct Meso-Cenozoic thermal histories on either side of the Talas-Fergana Fault. The research, combining zircon [U-Th-Sm]/He, apatite fission track, and apatite [U-Th-Sm]/He data from 30 igneous samples, shows that the terrane experienced rapid Triassic-Jurassic cooling linked to Palaeo-Asian Ocean closure or Qiangtang accretion. Unlike the Kyrgyz central Tian Shan to the east, which showed continuous fast cooling, the Chatkal-Kurama region exhibited Late Jurassic-Early Cretaceous tectonic stability and marine incursions from the Paratethys Sea, suggesting a topographic divide induced by the fault. Renewed Cenozoic tectonic activity, tied to India-Eurasia collision and Pamir indentation, led to crustal tilting, exposing deeper rocks to the southwest.

Lower Lethal Temperatures for Nonnative Freshwater Fishes in Everglades National Park, Florida

Everglades National Park — 2018 — WHE8E7718563F

Nonnative freshwater fishes in Everglades National Park exhibit varying lower lethal temperature tolerances, ranging from 4°C to 16.1°C, with potential implications for their ecological role and management. This study provides empirical data on the low-temperature tolerance limits of four species—Banded Cichlid (Heros severus), Spotfin Spiny Eel (Macrognathus siamensis), African Jewelfish (Hemichromis letourneuxi), and Mayan Cichlid (Cichlasoma urophthalmus)—while also synthesizing existing knowledge for all 17 nonnative species found in the park. The findings suggest that temperature may be a critical factor influencing the geographic spread and ecological impact of these invasive fishes, offering potential avenues for management strategies.

Lübeck and Mannheim (1911–20)

Hanseatic City of Lübeck — 2018 — WHEC1BB62BD8C

A rapid ascent to musical prominence in Germany, marked by Wilhelm Furtwängler's transition from assistant conductor to leading musical director within thirteen years, occurred amidst significant political turmoil. This study highlights the intersection of artistic evolution and societal change during a pivotal period in German history, spanning World War I and the Weimar Republic. Furtwängler's tenure as chief conductor in Lübeck (1911–1915) was shaped by the cultural ethos of the patrician Bürgertum, which also inspired Thomas Mann's novel 'Buddenbrooks.' The research employs a retrospective analysis to explore how historical context influenced Furtwängler's career trajectory and the enduring legacy of Lübeck's medieval atmosphere in modern German culture.

Luminescence Dating of an Ancient Walled Settlement in Orkhon Valley, Mongolia

Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape — 2018 — WHEF60247DAF1

A new chronology for an ancient walled settlement in the Orkhon Valley, Mongolia, suggests construction around 785±80 AD, challenging earlier archaeological estimates of 906–1125 AD. Researchers used optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating on quartz samples, applying the post-IR OSL method to small aliquots as proxies for single-grain measurements. Statistical analysis revealed a dose distribution with a central age model (CAM) De of 5.14±0.10 Gy and over dispersion of 47.5%, while the minimum age model (MAM) De was 3.7±0.6 Gy. The fast quartz post-IR OSL component, free from suspected partial bleaching, supported the earlier construction date. However, the MAM age aligns with independent evidence for reconstruction or reuse of the settlement around 1090±80 AD. This study demonstrates the potential of luminescence dating for young samples in cultural landscapes and refines our understanding of the Orkhon Valley's historical timeline.

Magmatic-Hydrothermal Evolution of the Barren Huangshan Pluton, Anhui Province, China: A Melt and Fluid Inclusion Study

Mount Huangshan — 2018 — WHE3BC9BFB696

Despite its geochemical similarities to mineralized systems, the Huangshan granite pluton in eastern China remains barren of economic mineralization. This study reveals that the lack of focused fluid flow, likely due to its flat roof geometry, is the key factor preventing mineral deposition. The research used melt and fluid inclusion analysis to reconstruct the magmatic-hydrothermal evolution, showing that both fluids and melts contained similar Mo concentrations as mineralized systems. The Huangshan magma's intermediate-density, high-salinity fluids (4.5–5.0 wt % NaCl equiv.) and near-solidus crystallization conditions (~700°C, ~1.8 kbar) suggest high confining pressures, with no evidence of fluid immiscibility. These findings highlight the importance of structural controls in determining mineralization potential.

Makeover for Mont-Saint-Michel

Mont-Saint-Michel and its Bay — 2018 — WHE0306A8AD02

A massive, $300 million renovation project involving the French central state, regional governments of Normandy and Brittany, and the European Union aims to redefine Mont-Saint-Michel's identity while addressing its natural dynamics. The study highlights that the island's isolation, a defining feature since its founding in the 8th century, is threatened by daily sand accumulation due to coastal processes. This project seeks to balance preservation with adaptation, ensuring the site retains its historical and ecological significance despite the relentless forces of the sea.

Making Value, Making Meaning: Techné in the Pre-Columbian World

Tiwanaku: Spiritual and Political Centre of the Tiwanaku Culture — 2018 — WHEC191635E45

A groundbreaking volume explores the concept of techné to illuminate pre-Columbian craft production, revealing its role in shaping value and meaning within ancient Andean and Mesoamerican societies. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining archaeological analysis with the chaîne opératoire method to dissect the technical processes behind artifacts like pottery, textiles, and metal adornments. Key findings highlight how skilled craftsmanship was intricately linked to political and ritual economies, with some contributions emphasizing the agency of materials in these contexts. The research offers a nuanced understanding of ancient artisans' knowledge and the cultural significance of their creations, spanning from coastal cultures to highland sites like Tiwanaku.

Malaysia Resilient Initiatives: Case Study of Melaka into Resilient City

Melaka and George Town, Historic Cities of the Straits of Malacca — 2018 — WHEE78715C8E6

Melaka is implementing policy-driven initiatives to become a resilient city amid increasing disaster risks in Asia. The study identifies that 70% of global disasters occur in Asia, with cities facing compounded threats from climate change, urbanization, socio-economic instability, terrorism, natural disasters, cyber-attacks, poverty, and endemic outbreaks. To address these challenges, Melaka is adopting strategic measures to enhance its resilience. The research employs literature and document analysis, examining relevant reports, policies, and literatures to assess the effectiveness of these initiatives. The findings aim to provide actionable insights for local authorities in Melaka, guiding them in preparing strategic directions and managing urban development to mitigate risks and foster long-term resilience.

Mammal Depletion Processes as Evidenced From Spatially Explicit and Temporal Local Ecological Knowledge

Okapi Wildlife Reserve — 2018 — WHE2BA1F17E87

A significant decline in mammal populations, particularly red colobus, orycterope, and chimpanzee, has been observed across the Okapi Wildlife Reserve in Democratic Republic of the Congo. This depletion is largely attributed to cascading effects stemming from rebellions between 1996 and 2002. The study employs an ethnozoological approach, integrating spatially explicit and temporal local ecological knowledge, to provide a cost-effective yet reliable method for tracking population trends. Notably, while species like elephants have locally disappeared and okapi and forest buffalo persist only in the northern part of the landscape, Yangambi Reserve demonstrates post-depletion sustainability with stable populations of fast-reproducing or small-sized species. The research underscores the potential for reversing depletion processes in post-conflict contexts and highlights the utility of this methodology in other regions with significant observer activity.

Management Implications of Snowpack Sensitivity to Temperature and Atmospheric Moisture Changes in Yosemite National Park, CA

Yosemite National Park — 2018 — WHE35BC911D84

A study on Yosemite National Park reveals that temperature increases of 2°C, 4°C, and 6°C could lead to significant reductions in April 1 snow water equivalent (SWE) by 38%, 73%, and 90% respectively, particularly in dry years. This warming would also cause the seasonal snowline to move upslope by 300 meters per 2°C increment, with a compressed melt zone at higher elevations under extreme warming scenarios. The research applied an energy- and mass-balance snow model across Yosemite's elevation range, using data from recent wet and dry years, to examine the impact of temperature increases and atmospheric moisture conditions on snowpack. Findings indicate that even moderate warming could eliminate snowpack contributions from elevations below 2,000 meters and alter forest water balance, posing challenges for land management in mountainous regions.

Management of cats and rodents on inhabited islands: An overview and case study of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Brazilian Atlantic Islands: Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas Reserves — 2018 — WHECE099CCE19

Successful cat and rodent eradication on uninhabited or sparsely populated islands has significantly contributed to species conservation, yet similar efforts on inhabited islands remain limited. A study analyzing Fernando de Noronha, a Brazilian oceanic island, reveals that localized control measures have historically prioritized agriculture, human livelihoods, and animal welfare over native biodiversity conservation. Challenges in inhabited-island management stem from complex social dynamics, including perceived or actual lack of resident or administrative support, differing priorities between control versus eradication, and socioeconomic factors. The study provides abundance estimates for cats and density estimates for rats on Fernando de Noronha, along with documented biodiversity impacts, to inform future conservation strategies. Addressing these barriers is critical to preventing further decline and extinction of island fauna.

Managing an invasive corallimorph at Palmyra Atoll National Wildlife Refuge, Line Islands, Central Pacific

Site of Palmyra — 2018 — WHECF5C51325B

A significant phase shift from coral to corallimorpharian dominance, centered around a shipwreck at Palmyra Atoll, was documented in 2007. This invasive species threatened the reef ecosystem by overgrowing native corals and coralline algae. Management efforts, including the removal of the shipwreck and the application of pulverized bleach, demonstrated localized reductions in corallimorpharian cover. The study highlights the effectiveness of targeted interventions, such as active eradication in heavily infested areas (> 66% cover), to mitigate colonization rates and protect remaining reefs. This research provides critical insights into managing invasive cnidarians, offering lessons applicable to similar situations globally.

Managing invasive plants on sub-Antarctic Macquarie Island

Macquarie Island — 2018 — WHEBD660EB640

Macquarie Island faces significant threats from invasive plant species introduced through human activity. Only three species—Poa annua, Stellaria media, and Cerastium fontanum—are well-established, with strict biosecurity measures in place to prevent further introductions. Research indicates that these weeds, though palatable, may have been suppressed by rabbit grazing. Post-rabbit eradication, weed proliferation could disrupt the island's ecosystem structure and function, necessitating targeted control strategies. The study proposes integrating both non-native plant and herbivore management for effective restoration. While S. media shows promise for easier management or potential eradication due to its limited distribution, knowledge gaps remain regarding soil seed banks, population dynamics post-eradication, and herbicide impacts in cold conditions. Ongoing research addresses these gaps, including studies on herbicide movement and fate in Macquarie Island's unique environment, despite logistical challenges.

Manganese Tolerance of Aloe greatheadii Schönland var. davyana (Schönland) Glen & D.S.Hardy (Asphodelaceae: Alooideae) on Ultramafic-Peralkaline Outcrops, South Africa

Vredefort Dome — 2018 — WHE75CE4D9FFB

Aloe greatheadii var. davyana demonstrates remarkable tolerance to manganese (Mn) without being a hyperaccumulator, with leaf tissue concentrations reaching up to 855 µg g⁻¹ on wehrlite substrates in the Vredefort Dome's ultramafic-peralkaline outcrops. Unlike other metals, Mn uptake is influenced more by soil pH, electric conductivity, and potassium levels than by available soil Mn. The study analyzed eight rock outcrops dominated by aloes to assess metal preferences and accumulation, finding that most species exclude metals, with only Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn detected in leaf tissue. This suggests a specific adaptation to ultramafic-peralkaline environments, offering insights into plant-metal interactions in extreme habitats.

Manicured landscapes: a video exploration of the Dolomite mountains as memoryscapes

The Dolomites — 2018 — WHEC6A51BF66F

The Dolomites, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2009, are celebrated for their intrinsic beauty and global appeal. However, a new study challenges the notion that their aesthetic value is purely inherent to nature, arguing instead that it arises from complex human entanglements with the landscape over time. By redefining 'manicured landscapes' through the lens of memoryscape theory and non-representational ideas, researchers reveal how inhabitants—through both harmonious and discordant interactions—shape these iconic mountain parks. This relational perspective shifts the focus from natural beauty alone to the dynamic interplay between people and place, offering a nuanced understanding of heritage landscapes.