Publications
Analysis of Tourism Sustainability in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil
Tourism sustainability in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil, is found to be a mixed scenario—ranging from sustainable to unsustainable practices—with critical vulnerabilities tied to rising population and high tourist inflows. This assessment, derived from the Tourism Sustainable Indicators System (TSIS), highlights the archipelago's delicate balance between environmental protection and tourism growth, particularly concerning its sensitive ecosystems and rich biodiversity. The study emphasizes the need for robust resource management in the two protected areas of Noronha to mitigate negative impacts. Conducted through semi-structured surveys, interviews with public authorities, civil society, and private sector agents, the research provides a nuanced understanding of the archipelago's sustainability dimensions—environmental, cultural, social, economic, touristic, and institutional. Its findings carry both local and global significance, offering insights for sustainable planning in isolated island contexts like Noronha.
Sponge Communities of Submarine Caves and Tunnels on the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Northeast Brazil
A recent study significantly expands the known diversity of sponge species in submarine caves and tunnels within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. Researchers documented 69 sponge species, doubling the previously recorded number (29) for these cryptic environments. The study highlights distinct community structures across cave zones: semi-dark areas are rich in Demospongiae, Homoscleromorpha, and Calcarea, while transition zones feature desma-bearing sponges and thinly encrusting spirastrellids. Notably, the darkest zone in Ilha do Meio Cave was nearly azoic, containing only three species. The research involved scuba diving explorations at depths of 5 to 18 meters across three cavities—Sapata Cave, Ilha do Meio Cave, and Pedras Secas Tunnel—revealing the unique biodiversity and ecological dynamics of these underwater habitats in the Southwestern Atlantic.
A new species of pincer wasps of Deinodryinus Perkins (Hymenoptera, Dryinidae) from oceanic archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
Researchers have identified and described a new species of pincer wasps, Deinodryinus noronhensis, from the oceanic archipelago of Fernando de Noronha in Brazil. This marks the first record of the genus Deinodryinus Perkins in the region. The study includes an illustration of the new species and updates a key for identification. Additionally, it discusses the significance of this discovery within the northeastern Brazilian context. The research contributes to our understanding of biodiversity in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, particularly in isolated oceanic environments.
Insect (Hexapoda) Diversity in the Oceanic Archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: Scenopinidae (Diptera)
A rare discovery of window flies (Scenopinidae) in the remote Brazilian archipelago of Fernando de Noronha extends known insect distributions, linking the island's fauna to mainland Brazil. The study documents only 16 specimens—three males and 13 females—of Scenopinus schulzi, highlighting its low abundance. Researchers suggest this species likely colonized the islands from the continent, challenging assumptions about oceanic archipelago isolation. By analyzing these findings, the study contributes to understanding insect dispersal in isolated ecosystems, offering insights into biodiversity patterns in UNESCO-listed marine reserves.
Plasma Calcium and Phosphorus Levels in Chelonia mydas Juveniles Obtained from Three Feeding Areas on the Brazilian Coast
Plasma phosphorus levels in juvenile green turtles (Chelonia mydas) decrease significantly with distance from coastal regions, suggesting these levels could serve as a reliable indicator of environmental quality in feeding sites along the Brazilian coast. The study, conducted between 2012 and 2014, analyzed plasma calcium and phosphorus concentrations in 123 turtles from three distinct feeding areas: Vitória Bay (ES), Abrolhos Marine National Park (BA), and Atol das Rocas Biological Reserve (RN). These sites exhibit varying degrees of anthropization. Findings indicate that phosphorus levels drop as the distance from coastal regions increases, highlighting the potential impact of human activities on marine ecosystems and turtle health. The research recommends further studies to correlate food component phosphorus levels with plasma concentrations to strengthen this environmental quality indicator.
The sweat bees from Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil (Hymenoptera: Halictidae)
A new species of sweat bee, Augochlora (Augochlora) sp., has been recorded from the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off Brazil's coast. This discovery adds to the known biodiversity of the region and contributes to our understanding of its unique ecosystems. The study also includes redescriptions of two previously documented species, Augochlora (Augochlora) laevipyga and Lasioglossum (Dialictus) atripyga, with the first illustration of male terminalia for the Kirby species. Researchers used recently collected specimens to characterize these bees, providing valuable insights into their morphology and taxonomy.
Wave-induced sediment and rhodolith mobility on a narrow insular shelf dominated by wave variability (Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil)
A seasonal wave regime significantly influences sediment and rhodolith mobility on the narrow insular shelf of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil. The study reveals that summer swell waves from the north increase sediment movement along the northern coast, while winter trade wind waves from the southeast and southern swells affect the southern face. Wave-induced sediment mobility occurs across the entire shelf, up to 60 meters deep near the shelf break, with carbonate bioclastic sediments being remobilized intensely in nearshore zones. Rhodolith movement, less dense but larger than sediments, happens under extreme wave conditions up to 30 meters depth, varying seasonally based on predominant wave direction. This research combines numerical modeling and empirical equations to describe spatial fields of sediment and rhodolith mobility, providing insights into the interaction between wave climate variability and shelf morphology.
Assessing trophic interactions between pelagic predatory fish by gut content and stable isotopes analysis around Fernando de Noronha Archipelago (Brazil), Equatorial West Atlantic
Research around Fernando de Noronha Archipelago reveals that four pelagic predatory fish—yellowfin tuna, wahoo, barracuda, and dolphinfish—exhibit specialized yet distinct feeding strategies, minimizing competition through low trophic niche overlap. Stable isotope analysis confirmed their coexistence by targeting different prey, despite their generalist/opportunistic diets. Yellowfin tuna displayed the highest dietary diversity, while barracuda and wahoo showed notable overlap (R0 = 0.72). The study highlights the archipelago's role in supporting diverse trophic interactions among these key predators.
Cross-sectional survey for Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans in Fernando de Noronha island, Brazil
A cross-sectional survey reveals a significant seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection (50.4%) among residents of Fernando de Noronha Island, Brazil, marking the first epidemiological study of this zoonotic disease in the archipelago. Key risk factors identified include consumption of well or rainwater and game meat, with odds ratios of 2.43 and 1.80, respectively. The findings highlight the need for targeted prevention and control measures, particularly in island environments where water sources and dietary habits may pose higher infection risks.
Feral cat population rises on Fernando de Noronha Archipelago
A recent study reveals a concerning 41.1% increase in the feral cat population on Fernando de Noronha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and critical habitat for endangered marine birds and endemic species. Researchers estimated the current population at 439 cats (CI95%: 283-680) with a density of 46 animals/km², highlighting an urgent need for population control or eradication to protect native wildlife. The study employed live trapping using tomahawk traps and various baits over two fieldwork periods in 2018–2019, alongside linear transect surveys. Despite extensive trapping efforts totaling 5,376 hours, no cats were captured, underscoring the challenges of managing this invasive species. The findings emphasize the ecological threat posed by feral cats to the archipelago's biodiversity and its status as a human heritage site.
Fernando de Noronha Archipelago (Brazil): A Coastal Geopark Proposal to Foster the Local Economy, Tourism and Sustainability
Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil, holds significant potential to become a UNESCO Global Geopark, combining geological heritage conservation with sustainable economic development. This study highlights the archipelago's geodiversity and its role in fostering local economies through sustainable tourism, environmental protection, and the creation of geo-based products (geoproducts) and foods (geofood). The research builds on prior work by Brazil's Geological Service (CPRM), which identified key geological sites (geosites) on the island. By proposing Fernando de Noronha as a geopark, the study demonstrates how such initiatives can balance ecological preservation with economic growth, offering a model for other coastal regions. The approach involves leveraging geological heritage to attract tourism while ensuring sustainable practices, thereby benefiting both conservation and local communities.
Governança ambiental em áreas marinhas protegidas: o contexto do Arquipélago de Fernando de Noronha, Brasil
A study on the Brazilian Atlantic Islands highlights that unchecked tourism, despite being the main economic driver, has become the primary cause of environmental degradation and destruction in protected marine areas like Fernando de Noronha. The research reveals a transition from an idyllic paradise to severe socio-environmental conflicts, marked by urban-like environmental issues and power struggles among stakeholders. This deterioration is attributed to poor governance, lack of institutional integration, and non-compliance with environmental restrictions, posing risks of social, environmental, and economic collapse. The study employed Policy Analysis and the MACTOR software to analyze data collected through direct observation and key actor interviews.
Insect (Hexapoda) diversity in the oceanic archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: Pipunculidae (Diptera)
A rare insect, Eudorylas lepus (Rafael, 1990), has been documented for the first time in Fernando de Noronha, a UNESCO-listed archipelago off Brazil’s coast. This discovery contributes to the understanding of Hexapoda diversity in oceanic islands, where such species are often scarce or overlooked. The study, published in Entomological Communications, records the insect in low numbers and provides a brief characterization. Researchers used field collections to identify this new occurrence, highlighting the importance of remote archipelagos like Fernando de Noronha for biodiversity studies.
Insect (Hexapoda) diversity in the Oceanic Archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: Seasonality and Populational Density of Tabanidae (Diptera)
A study on the Brazilian Atlantic Islands of Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas reveals that two epidemiologically significant species of bloodsucking Tabanidae, Tabanus occidentalis and T. pungens, dominate the insect diversity in this oceanic archipelago. T. occidentalis accounted for 99.6% of collected specimens across both rainy and dry seasons, while T. pungens was rare, comprising only 0.4%, primarily during the dry season. These species, likely introduced accidentally, pose risks to livestock health and tourism due to their pestering behavior and potential pathogen transmission. The study also highlights the role of the invasive aquatic plant Pistia stratiotes as a larval habitat for these tabanids, recommending its removal from local ponds to control their populations.
Sightings trends and behaviour of manta rays in Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil
A decade-long analysis of photographic and video records reveals that manta rays, likely Mobula birostris, inhabit the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago (FNA) year-round, with shallow waters serving as critical feeding grounds. The study, spanning 2002 to 2019, identified 130 sightings, of which 48% were of re-sighted individuals, indicating seasonal and multi-year use of the area. Notably, 69% of observed rays were small (≤3 m disc width), suggesting a juvenile population, further supported by undeveloped claspers in males and absence of mating scars in females. This first report of manta ray behavior at FNA provides preliminary evidence of feeding habits among juveniles in Brazilian waters, contributing to the understanding of their regional distribution and habitat use.
Surface Circulation and Vertical Structure of Upper Ocean Variability Around Fernando de Noronha Archipelago and Rocas Atoll During Spring 2015 and Fall 2017
A study of oceanographic conditions around the Brazilian Atlantic Islands—Fernando de Noronha and Rocas Atoll—revealed significant seasonal variability in circulation, temperature, and nutrient distribution. In spring 2015, oxygen-rich waters from the South Equatorial Undercurrent (SEUC) reached Rocas Atoll, while fall 2017 showed no such retroflection, indicating dynamic shifts in subsurface water transport. Island-induced flow disturbances, including current splitting and mesoscale eddies, were observed near Fernando de Noronha, with a cyclonic vortex detected southeast of Rocas Atoll. These features likely enhance local productivity by bringing subsurface nutrients to the euphotic layer. The research used current, hydrographic, and satellite data from two cruises (2015 and 2017) to analyze upper-ocean variability, highlighting the complex interplay between island topography and ocean dynamics.
The first species of Embioptera (Insecta) from the archipelago of Fernando de Noronha (Pernambuco: Brazil)
Researchers have identified and described Pararhagadochir noronhensis, the first species of Embioptera (Insecta) from the Fernando de Noronha archipelago in Brazil. This discovery adds to the six known species of the genus Pararhagadochir found across Brazil. The new species is distinguished by unique morphological traits, including a strongly concave anterior margin of the submentum and a forked caudal process on the 10th left hemitergite. The study contributes to the understanding of Embioptera diversity in Brazilian ecosystems, particularly in isolated island environments like Fernando de Noronha, which is part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The research relied on detailed morphological analysis to characterize the new species.
First fish fauna assessment in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago with BRUVS: Species catalog with underwater imagery
A groundbreaking fish fauna assessment of the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site off northeastern Brazil, reveals remarkable species richness with 66 distinct fish species recorded using non-destructive Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVS). This method avoids biases from traditional catch or visual census techniques, providing an unbiased inventory of marine ichthyofauna. The study documented a diverse assemblage, including five elasmobranch species and large predatory fish such as barracudas, groupers, and snappers, from 81 underwater video samples. Additionally, the research cataloged 4,398 individuals across four benthic habitat types, offering valuable insights into the ecological dynamics of this protected marine environment.
Insect (Hexapoda) diversity in the oceanic archipelago of Fernando de Noronha, Brazil: updated taxonomic checklist and new records
A comprehensive survey of insect diversity in the UNESCO-listed Fernando de Noronha and Atol das Rocas archipelago has revealed 453 hexapod species across 21 orders, more than doubling previous knowledge. The study identified 263 new records, including 38 potentially endemic species, providing critical baseline data for conservation efforts. Researchers employed systematic sampling and taxonomic analysis to document the entomofauna, highlighting the archipelago's ecological significance while underscoring gaps in our understanding of oceanic island biodiversity.
Land Snails of the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil
A survey of terrestrial gastropods in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil, identified four land snail species: two endemics (Hyperaulax ridleyi and Ridleya quinquelirata) and two widespread species (Beckianum beckianum and Allopeas gracile). Hyperaulax ridleyi was the most abundant. This study provides critical baseline data for the conservation of these vulnerable, endemic species, marking a significant step toward developing future protection strategies for the archipelago's terrestrial biodiversity.
Mesophotic ecosystems at Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil (South-western Atlantic), reveal unique ichthyofauna and need for conservation
A groundbreaking survey of mesophotic ecosystems at the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago, Brazil, has uncovered 19 new fish species, including four potential new species, significantly increasing marine fish richness by 8.2% in the region. This discovery underscores the biodiversity hidden at depths between 31 and 150 meters, even in well-studied areas like Fernando de Noronha. Researchers employed a multi-method approach, utilizing SCUBA and technical rebreather diving, baited remote underwater videos, and remotely operated vehicles to document shallow (≤ 30 m) and mesophotic fish diversity. The findings highlight the critical need for conservation efforts to protect these unique ichthyofauna, which remain largely unexplored and vulnerable to human impacts.
Small microplastics on beaches of Fernando de Noronha Island, Tropical Atlantic Ocean
A study on the beaches of Fernando de Noronha Island, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, reveals that small microplastics (SMP) are prevalent, with synthetic fibers being the predominant type. The research analyzed SMP from 15 sandy beaches, categorizing them by shape, color, and size. No significant difference was found in the concentration of SMP between windward and leeward beaches, indicating that environmental factors controlling the transport and deposition of synthetic fibers may differ from those affecting fragments. While allochthonous sources are challenging to prevent at a small scale, the study underscores the necessity for management actions to curb autochthonous sources of microplastics on the island.
Using genetics to plan black rat (Rattus rattus) management in Fernando de Noronha archipelago, Brazil
Genetic analysis reveals that black rat populations on two islands within the Fernando de Noronha archipelago, Brazil, exhibit significant differentiation with minimal or no gene flow between them. This finding suggests that if rats were eradicated from Rata Island, reinvasion from the main island is unlikely. The study employed D-Loop sequences and 14 microsatellite markers to assess genetic connectivity, providing critical insights for targeted conservation efforts. These results support the implementation of a rat eradication program on Rata Island, following the success of a similar initiative on nearby Meio Island.
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