Publications
Determination of organic contaminants in groundwater from Anaga Rural Park and El Teide National Park (Canary Islands, Spain) by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
A multi-class assessment of organic contaminants in groundwater from Anaga Rural Park and El Teide National Park, two protected volcanic environments in Tenerife, Canary Islands, reveals trace levels of anthropogenic pollutants. The study detected compounds such as myclobutanil, tebuconazole, oxolinic acid, caffeine, and carbamazepine, indicating potential influence from agricultural activities and wastewater infiltration. Researchers developed a sensitive analytical method using automated solid-phase extraction followed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS), validated for accuracy and sensitivity at the ng/L level. This work provides one of the first comprehensive evaluations of organic contaminants in protected volcanic aquifers, offering insights into groundwater vulnerability and supporting future monitoring and water management strategies in these ecologically significant areas.
Drought and Freezing Compromise Woody‐Plant Functioning in High Mountain Ecosystems Under Mediterranean Climate: The Case of Bencomia exstipulata
Bencomia exstipulata, an endemic shrub in Teide National Park, exhibits limited adaptations to drought and freezing, despite its high-altitude montane habitat. Research reveals that while it maintains fast leaf turnover with high photosynthetic rates and stomatal conductance, its xylem is vulnerable to embolism under severe drought, and leaves lack robust photoprotective mechanisms against freezing temperatures. The study combines ecophysiological characterization, drought tolerance evaluation at leaf and xylem levels, and freezing stress analysis at biophysical and photochemical levels. Findings suggest that extreme climate events, such as prolonged drought or severe freezing, could pose lethal risks to this species in the long term, highlighting its fragile ecological balance in Mediterranean-type climates.
Inventory of arthropods (Arthropoda) through standardised protocols in the Teide National Park (Canary Islands, Spain)
A recent inventory of arthropods in Teide National Park, a high-mountain ecosystem with extreme conditions, identified 615 taxa, including 80 new to the site. This update follows the first comprehensive catalogue from 1996 and establishes standardized sampling protocols for future biomonitoring. The study highlights the park's remarkable biodiversity despite its challenging environment.
The endemic shrubland community of Teide National park under threat from the invasive European rabbit: a microhistological approach using faecal samples
A microhistological analysis of European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) faecal samples from Teide National Park reveals that rabbits selectively forage on certain endemic plant species, including Pterocephalus lasiospermus and Descurainia bourgeauana, despite their perceived unpalatability. This study identifies 12 plant species in rabbit diets, with three dominating the diet disproportionately to their abundance, suggesting selective feeding behavior. The findings challenge previous assumptions about plant palatability and highlight the significant threat rabbits pose to the park's unique flora. The research supports the need for targeted management strategies to mitigate rabbit impacts and conserve biodiversity, providing critical data for restoring potential plant communities.
Clonalidad y envejecimiento de Cytisus supranubius (Fabaceae) en la alta montaña de Tenerife.
Over half of the Cytisus supranubius shrub population in Teide National Park, Tenerife, is experiencing significant aging, with only 4% of individuals being juveniles. This study reveals a critical decline in sexual reproduction, exacerbated by clonal individuals producing fewer flowers, which worsens regeneration issues. The research attributes these problems primarily to the invasive European rabbit, highlighting urgent needs for better population control and conservation strategies to reverse this trend.
Cold Air Pools (CAPs) as Natural Freezers for the Study of Plant Responses to Low Temperatures
Cold Air Pools (CAPs) in volcanic landscapes, such as Teide National Park, act as natural freezers where temperatures can plummet dramatically due to the accumulation of cold air under specific topographic and atmospheric conditions. These unique microenvironments, which can persist for days or weeks, provide an opportunity to study plant responses to extreme low temperatures in situ. Unlike surrounding areas, CAPs exhibit distinct biotic communities, suggesting they may serve as microrefugia for biodiversity amid climate warming. This review hypothesizes the ecophysiological adaptations of plants inhabiting these environments and proposes their use as natural laboratories to investigate temperature-induced stress responses without artificial manipulation.
Movements and habitat use by ring ouzels in El Teide National Park: Conservation implications for a relict plant-frugivore system
Ring ouzels play a critical role in seed dispersal for Canary junipers within El Teide National Park, primarily moving short distances (95% under 1.2 km) that facilitate seed spread among juniper remnants. Their habitat use is strongly tied to juniper cover and proximity to water sources, avoiding unvegetated flat areas. The study combined GPS tracking of individual ouzels with high-resolution habitat data to reveal their movement patterns and habitat preferences, highlighting the importance of both active juniper woodland restoration and the provision of water sources for supporting ouzel activity and enhancing seed-dispersal services in this relict plant-frugivore system.
Occurrence of anthropogenic microparticles in soils of teide national park
A groundbreaking study reveals the presence of microplastics and other anthropogenic microparticles in the soils of Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its pristine alpine environment. Despite strict protective measures and its remote location, the park exhibits pollution levels ranging from 0 to approximately 1500 items per kilogram of dry soil, with colourless cellulosic microfibres being the most prevalent. The research, conducted through systematic sampling of 78 soil samples across the park's surface, employed a rigorous protocol involving sequential digestion, flotation, and filtration, followed by stereomicroscopic identification and micro Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis to determine the chemical nature of the particles. This discovery underscores that even remote, protected areas are not immune to human-induced pollution, challenging the notion of their pristine status.
High Diversity of Bradyrhizobial Species Fix Nitrogen with Woody Legume Spartocytisus supranubius in a High Mountain Ecosystem
Research in Teide National Park reveals a high diversity of Bradyrhizobium species capable of fixing nitrogen with the woody legume Spartocytisus supranubius in extreme high-mountain conditions. Phylogenetic analysis identified three distinct lineages—two within the B. japonicum superclade (labeled B. canariense-like and B. hipponense-like) and one within the B. elkanii superclade (B. algeriense-like)—suggesting potential new species. While soil physicochemical differences existed among three study sites, they did not significantly influence bradyrhizobial distribution, indicating strong adaptation to Teide's harsh environment.
Microplastics in snow of a high mountain national park: El Teide, Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain)
A first-of-its-kind study reveals microplastics (MPs) in snow samples from El Teide National Park, Tenerife, a high-altitude protected area on an insular territory. Analysis of 63 snow samples, collected after two storm episodes in January-February 2021, showed significant differences in MP concentrations between pristine areas and those with previous anthropogenic activity—averaging 51 ± 72 items/L in pristine zones versus 167 ± 104 and 188 ± 164 items/L in accessible and climbing areas, respectively. MPs were predominantly microfibers (250-750 μm length), primarily cellulosic (62.7%), polyester (20.9%), and acrylic (6.3%). The findings suggest atmospheric transport and local human activities as potential sources of these contaminants, highlighting the pervasive nature of MP pollution even in remote, high-altitude ecosystems.
Tracking anthropogenic microparticles in wildlife of an alpine insular environment
Scientists have documented the first evidence of anthropogenic microparticles, including microplastics and cellulosic fibres, in the faeces of wild rabbits and mouflons in Teide National Park, a high-mountain UNESCO World Heritage Site. Analysis of 616 samples revealed that while most were particle-free, 37 anthropogenic particles—primarily blue cellulosic microfibres (2721 ± 407 µm), along with poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) and polypropylene—were identified at a rate of 0.79 ± 0.20 items per gram of dry faecal matter. The study suggests atmospheric deposition and tourism as likely sources, highlighting the pervasive impact of human activity even in remote alpine environments. This discovery underscores the introduction of microplastics into terrestrial food chains, posing potential ecological risks.
Climate change causes rapid collapse of a keystone shrub from insular Alpine ecosystems
A rapid collapse of the keystone shrub Spartocytisus supranubius, endemic to Teide National Park (Tenerife, Canary Islands), has been linked to climate change over a 32-year period. This study, using historical aerial images and image segmentation techniques, found that this species experienced a mean decline in coverage ranging from 28.7% to 41%, depending on data interpolation methods. The regression was negatively correlated with temperature and positively with precipitation, suggesting a possible collapse of the broom population. These findings warrant listing the species as vulnerable according to IUCN criteria, highlighting the severe impact of climate change on insular alpine ecosystems.
Endophytic Bosea spartocytisi sp. nov. Coexists with rhizobia in root nodules of Spartocytisus supranubius growing in soils of Teide National Park (Canary Islands)
Researchers have identified a novel bacterial species, Bosea spartocytisi, coexisting with rhizobia in root nodules of Spartocytisus supranubius in Teide National Park's volcanic soils. This discovery was made through phylogenetic, genomic, chemotaxonomic, and phenotypic analyses, revealing distinct genetic and biochemical traits that differentiate it from known Bosea species. Notably, the strains lack common nodulation and nitrogen fixation genes, suggesting a unique ecological role or symbiotic relationship. The study employed 16S rRNA gene sequencing, MLSA (multi-locus sequence analysis), and genome sequencing to confirm its novelty, with ANIb and dDDH values below established thresholds for species delineation.
Microplastics in snow of a high mountain national park: El teide, tenerife (canary islands, spain)
A study on microplastics (MPs) in the snow of Teide National Park, Canary Islands, revealed significant deposition of MPs at high altitudes (2,100-3,200 m), with concentrations increasing during periods of high anthropogenic pressure. The research identified a prevalence of blue and black fibers averaging 1259 µm in length, primarily composed of cellulose, polyester, and acrylic. Samples were collected in January and February 2021 using stereomicroscopy for visualization and quantification, followed by chemical composition analysis via micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The findings highlight the long-distance transport of MPs through atmospheric deposition and their potential ecological impacts on remote mountain ecosystems.
Policy instruments for sustainable tourism management in national parks: A comparative analysis of Colombia, Costa Rica, and Spain
Research identifies key gaps in sustainable tourism management within national parks, highlighting the need for improved coordination between environmental protection and tourism bodies. The study, comparing policy instruments across Colombia, Costa Rica, and Spain—focusing on six national parks including Teide National Park—reveals that while organizational structures exist, normative and programmatic instruments often lack integration of sustainability criteria such as carbon footprints and accessibility. A content analysis of official documents revealed 11 topics and 35 subtopics for potential enhancement in programmatic tools, suggesting targeted improvements could address these deficiencies.
The Volcanic Geoheritage of El Teide National Park (Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain)
El Teide National Park boasts one of the most spectacular volcanic landscapes globally. While its geodiversity is legally protected, public understanding lags due to inadequate outreach efforts and inconsistent scientific communication. This study identifies key challenges in disseminating the park's geological significance and proposes solutions: compiling existing knowledge, pinpointing critical geosites, developing targeted outreach programs, and training guides for effective knowledge transfer. By addressing these gaps, the research aims to elevate public appreciation of this unique volcanic heritage.
Vegetation change on Mt. Teide, the Atlantic's highest volcano, inferred by incorporating the data underlying Humboldt's Tableau Physique des Iles Canaries
Research on Mt. Teide, the highest volcano in the Atlantic, reveals significant upward shifts in the elevational ranges of 23 plant species since Humboldt's observations in 1799 and 1815, with an average shift of 36.4 meters per decade (1799/1815–2021). This study leverages historic data from Humboldt's Tableau Physique des Iles Canaries alongside modern surveys to assess vegetation changes, likely influenced by climate warming and reduced herbivory post-goat eradication. The findings highlight the magnitude of biotic change over two centuries, providing one of the earliest records for this UNESCO-listed site.
Virtual skeletons and digital muscles: an experimental bioarchaeological approach to the pre-Hispanic production of millstones (Tenerife, Canary Islands)
Research demonstrates that the repeated use of the right arm during pre-Hispanic millstone production in Teide National Park (Tenerife) could lead to distinct musculoskeletal changes, observable in archaeological bone records. The study leverages open-access Kinovea software for biomechanical analysis, revealing a predominance of muscle engagement—particularly the biceps brachii and brachioradialis—as well as specific postural angles during indirect percussion and abrasion tasks. Unlike costly motion capture systems, Kinovea proves reliable in virtually reconstructing human postures, enabling more precise 'virtual skeletons' for archaeological contexts. This approach enhances our understanding of ancient labor impacts while offering a scalable tool for digital archaeology.
Applying Agronomic Principles of Rhizobial Inoculation to the Conservation of a Keystone Legume Species in a High Mountain Ecosystem on an Oceanic Island
Inoculation with specific Bradyrhizobium strains significantly enhances the growth, survival, and nitrogen fixation of Spartocytisus supranubius, a keystone legume species in Teide National Park. The study demonstrated that inoculated plants exhibited higher nodule formation, biomass, and water content, both under greenhouse conditions and in field trials. This approach not only accelerates plant development but also improves stress resilience, offering a promising strategy for the conservation of this threatened species. By leveraging rhizobial inoculation—a technique traditionally used in agronomy—the research provides a novel method to support ecosystem stability in nitrogen-poor high-mountain environments.
Proposals for Sustainable Transport in Natural Areas: A Case Study of Teide National Park
Teide National Park, one of the world's most visited natural areas, faces significant challenges due to mass tourism, including traffic congestion, pollution, and high noise levels. Research reveals that visitors are willing to adopt sustainable transportation options if given the opportunity. Studies show strong preference for a public bicycle-sharing system, willingness to pay for shuttle-bus services to reduce environmental impact, and substantial recreational economic value tied to the site's sustainability. These findings provide actionable insights for policymakers to implement demand management strategies that balance visitor experience with ecological preservation, offering a model for other high-traffic natural parks.
Values of Travel Time for Recreational Trips under Different Behavioural Rules
A novel hybrid model reveals that visitors' preferences for accessing Teide National Park are influenced by distinct behavioral rules, with some attributes evaluated under random utility maximization (RUM) and others under random regret minimization (RRM). This approach provides more accurate monetary valuations of travel time components than traditional RUM models alone. The study highlights the potential of such models to inform policies promoting sustainable transport in national parks, addressing critical issues like traffic congestion, pollution, noise, and accidents that threaten site sustainability and visitor experience.
Advanced Processing of Multiplatform Remote Sensing Imagery for the Monitoring of Coastal and Mountain Ecosystems
Remote sensing emerges as a powerful tool for accurately mapping and monitoring diverse ecosystems, with WorldView satellites offering the best balance of cost, coverage, and accuracy. A multiplatform methodology using multispectral and hyperspectral data from Sentinel-2, WorldView-2, CASI, and Pika-L sensors demonstrated high potential for sustainable management of natural resources in Teide National Park (a mountain ecosystem) and Cabrera National Park (a coastal ecosystem). The study validated the approach with in-situ data and expert feedback, achieving optimal performance using Support Vector Machine classification. These findings highlight remote sensing's ability to support conservation efforts in vulnerable, biodiverse areas affected by climate change.
Weakly Supervised Semantic Segmentation For Remote Sensing Hyperspectral Imaging
A novel approach to semantic segmentation using weakly supervised learning significantly outperforms traditional methods, such as Support Vector Machines (SVM), when applied to hyperspectral imaging data from Teide National Park. The proposed Deep Seeded Region Growing system leverages a neural network trained on seeds generated by an SVM, progressively increasing pixel-level supervision through a region-growing algorithm. This method enhances the accuracy and efficiency of vegetation mapping in remote sensing applications, offering a promising alternative for large-scale environmental monitoring.
Aphyllophoroid fungi in Teide National Park (Tenerife, Canary Islands)
A comprehensive survey of Aphyllophoroid fungi in Teide National Park, Tenerife, Canary Islands, identifies 133 species, significantly expanding the known mycobiota of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The study, published in Mycotaxon, utilizes annotated species distribution data to document fungal diversity in one of the most biodiverse volcanic landscapes on Earth. Researchers employed field sampling and taxonomic analysis to characterize these fungi, which play crucial roles in ecosystem processes such as decomposition and nutrient cycling. This work contributes to our understanding of fungal biodiversity in extreme environments and underscores the importance of preserving such unique habitats.
Using geotagged photographs and GPS tracks from social networks to analyse visitor behaviour in national parks
Geotagged data from social networks, including photographs and GPS tracks, can effectively analyze visitor behavior in national parks. A study on Teide National Park, the most visited in Spain, demonstrated that such data provides valuable insights into spatial distribution, points of interest, itinerary networks, temporal patterns, and visitors' origins. Additionally, this approach offers practical applications for determining optimal locations for new facilities like information stands. The research highlights the potential of social media-derived data as a tool for understanding and managing visitor behavior in protected areas.
Tourists’ travel time values using discrete choice models: the recreational value of the Teide National Park
Research reveals that the recreational value of Teide National Park, when calculated using discrete choice models independent of labor market factors, significantly differs from traditional wage-based approaches. By analyzing trade-offs between time and money in transport mode choices among 801 visitors, the study estimates distinct travel time values for different stages of the trip and transport modes. This novel method, combining Mixed Logit models with Zonal Travel Cost Method, challenges conventional practices by focusing on the opportunity cost of leisure rather than work time, offering a more accurate assessment of recreational value.
Visitors’ Attitudes towards Bicycle Use in the Teide National Park
A public bike-sharing system shows promise as a sustainable transportation solution for the Teide National Park (TNP), Spain's most visited national park. The study, combining revealed and stated preferences with ordered logit models, found that bicycles could significantly reduce car dependency—currently at 70%—mitigating environmental strain and enhancing visitor experience. This approach offers a practical strategy to improve mobility management in high-traffic protected areas, balancing ecological preservation with tourism sustainability.
An Application of the CHAID Algorithm to Study the Environmental Impact of Visitors to the Teide National Park in Tenerife, Spain
A significant link between visitor behavior and environmental impact at the Teide National Park (TNP), one of Europe's most visited sites, was identified through a CHAID algorithm analysis. The study revealed that visitors arriving by car tend to stay longer in the park, correlating with increased environmental footprint due to prolonged exposure and higher emissions from private vehicles. Conducted via 805 valid questionnaires in 2016, this research underscores the urgent need for sustainable transport solutions, such as promoting less polluting vehicles or alternative transportation modes, to mitigate ecological strain on this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Automatic identification of shrub vegetation of the Teide National Park
Researchers have developed an innovative method to automatically identify populations of Teide broom, an endemic shrub in the Canary Islands, using remote sensing imagery. This approach combines superpixels as the minimum image processing unit with one-class classification, enabling precise location mapping of the species within Teide National Park. The methodology was validated in a known population area in the northwest of the park, demonstrating its potential to support conservation efforts by providing accurate and efficient vegetation monitoring. This technique offers significant applications for biodiversity assessment and environmental management.
Impact of the introduced honeybees (Apis mellifera, Apidae) on Teide National Park (Tenerife, Canary Islands)
Massive introduction of honeybees (Apis mellifera) in Teide National Park significantly disrupts native pollination networks, reducing floral visitor diversity and impairing reproductive success of key plant species. The study found that up to 3000 beehives, housing around 100 million bees, compete with native fauna for nectar and pollen, leading to decreased fruit and seed production due to inbreeding depression. While honeybees are not effective pollinators, their dominance alters the park's ecological balance, threatening its endemic flora and fauna. Researchers recommend banning introduced beehives to protect the park's biodiversity.
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