Publications
Island treasures: Macroalgae from a marine national park in the Bijagós Archipelago (Guinea-Bissau)
A pioneering survey of marine macroalgae in the João Vieira e Poilão Marine National Park, a UNESCO-listed site within Guinea-Bissau’s Bijagós Archipelago, reveals 16 species, including 11 new to the country. The study, leveraging morphological and molecular analysis (plastid LSU UPA barcode), highlights the park’s biodiversity richness, particularly among mangrove-associated red algae of the genus Bostrychia, which accounted for five identified species. These findings suggest that the archipelago’s macroalgal diversity is significantly higher than previously documented, with newly recorded taxa representing approximately 25% of Guinea-Bissau’s known macroalgae. The research underscores the ecological importance of this protected marine area and provides a foundation for future biodiversity assessments.
A survey of indoor and outdoor Anopheles density, species composition and circumsporozoite rate of malaria vectors on the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
A survey of malaria vectors on the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, reveals that Anopheles melas is the dominant species, accounting for 85.2% of all Anopheles caught, both indoors and outdoors. This suggests it may contribute to year-round malaria transmission in the region. The study also found high hybridization between Anopheles gambiae sensu stricto and Anopheles coluzzii on some islands, with sporozoite rates indicating low but present infection levels (0.86% overall). The research used odour-baited light traps for adult mosquito collection and RFLP-PCR for species identification, providing critical data to tailor effective vector control strategies in this seasonal malaria transmission setting.
Diversity, distribution and conservation of crocodiles (Order: Crocodylia) in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa
A potential rediscovery of the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) in Guinea-Bissau challenges long-held beliefs about its extinction in West Africa. This study, using visual surveys, camera trapping, and molecular barcoding, confirms the presence of this species in the Cacheu region while also documenting the distribution of two other crocodile species: the West African crocodile (Crocodylus suchus) across major river basins and coastal lagoons, including the Bijagós Archipelago, and the West African dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus cf. tetraspis) in southern mainland and archipelagic areas. Habitat loss and deliberate killings pose significant threats to these populations. The research underscores the need for standardized surveys and genetic sampling to assess population dynamics, connectivity, and genetic diversity, which are critical for evolutionary studies and conservation planning. Community-managed reserves and restoration initiatives, alongside local engagement to mitigate human-crocodile conflicts, are recommended as priority conservation strategies.
Hotspot of Exotic Benthic Marine Invertebrates Discovered in the Tropical East Atlantic: DNA Barcoding Insights From the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea‐Bissau
A groundbreaking survey of the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—revealed 28 new marine benthic invertebrate species, including six documented for the first time in the East Atlantic. Using DNA barcoding and phylogenetic analysis, researchers challenged assumptions about exotic species in the region, uncovering cryptic diversity that suggests some previously labeled non-native species may not be exotic due to their restricted distributions. The study highlights significant gaps in West African marine biodiversity knowledge and raises concerns about underreported human-driven trade of marine species between the Tropical East Atlantic, Americas, Indo-Pacific, and Mediterranean. These findings underscore the need for improved monitoring and management to curb the spread of non-native species.
An allometric approach to seasonal changes in intake rates of migratory shorebirds in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea‐Bissau
Migratory shorebirds wintering in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, exhibit seasonally decreasing intake rates, contrary to expectations. The study, employing an allometric approach, found that smaller species experienced particularly pronounced declines in daily energetic intakes. Notably, species like the Ringed Plover, Curlew Sandpiper, and Bar-tailed Godwit showed exceptionally low intake rates compared to other wintering sites along the East Atlantic Flyway, suggesting potential energetic constraints during their fuelling phase for return migration.
Genomic surveillance of Anopheles mosquitoes on the Bijagós Archipelago using custom targeted amplicon sequencing identifies mutations associated with insecticide resistance
A genomic surveillance study of Anopheles mosquitoes on the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, identified four insecticide resistance mutations, including the first report of the vgsc L995F kdr-west allele in Anopheles melas. The research used high-throughput multiplex amplicon sequencing to analyze 214 mosquitoes from 13 islands, detecting low overall prevalence of resistance markers but highlighting higher levels of vgsc L995F and N1570Y mutations on Bubaque Island, the most populous and connected island in the archipelago. These findings underscore the need for continued monitoring, particularly given the reliance on pyrethroid insecticide-treated nets for malaria control in the region.
Human–wildlife interactions on the tidal flats of the Bijagós Archipelago: does shellfishing affect migratory shorebirds?
A study on the Bijagós Archipelago reveals that shellfishing, while significant for local culture and economy, does not substantially affect migratory shorebirds. Despite high densities of shellfishers during mid-winter, disturbances decrease as shorebirds prepare for migration, benefiting them with reduced competition and minimal sediment impact on prey availability. Formal protection measures enhance bivalve resource management compared to traditional practices rooted in cultural beliefs. The research combined questionnaires, seasonal assessments, and experimental approaches to explore direct and indirect impacts of shellfishing on shorebird feeding dynamics.
Inter-island nesting dynamics and clutch survival of green turtles Chelonia mydas within a marine protected area in the Bijagós Archipelago, West Africa
Green turtle nesting success varies significantly among islands within the Bijagós Archipelago's João Vieira-Poilão Marine National Park, with Poilão Island serving as a primary rookery offering optimal conditions for clutch survival. Research from 2015 to 2022 revealed that while Poilão's high nest density leads to increased egg destruction by later nesting turtles, it maintains a higher mean hatching success of 67.9% compared to neighboring islands like Meio (11.9%), Cavalos (36.0%), and João Vieira (76.0%). The study suggests a source-sink dynamic, where Poilão acts as the source due to its superior reproductive output, while adjacent islands with lower survival rates may serve as sinks for migrating turtles. This finding highlights the potential impact of population growth and sea level rise on nesting suitability, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts to consider secondary sites to mitigate localized threats.
Phenotypic evidence of deltamethrin resistance and identification of selective sweeps in Anopheles mosquitoes on the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
A new study confirms deltamethrin resistance in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes on Bubaque Island, part of the Bijagós Archipelago in Guinea-Bissau, using WHO tube tests. The research identified six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to insecticide resistance, including mutations in the vgsc and gste2 genes, with four SNPs appearing at frequencies over 5% in the population. Genome-wide selection scans revealed two selective sweeps on chromosomes X and 2R, overlapping with metabolic genes such as cyp9k1 and the cyp6aa/cyp6p cluster, both associated with insecticide resistance. This is the first phenotypic testing for deltamethrin resistance and the first whole genome sequence data for Anopheles gambiae in this region, providing critical insights for vector control policies.
Seasonal Variation in the Diet of Migratory Shorebirds Wintering in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
Migratory shorebirds wintering in the Bijagós Archipelago exhibit significant seasonal shifts in diet, with smaller species increasing polychaete consumption and larger ones favoring bivalves during the critical fuelling period. This dietary flexibility, marked by low overlap between periods, suggests adaptations to prey availability or selection pressures. The study reconstructed diets for eight shorebird species across three non-breeding phases—arrival, mid-winter, and fuelling—revealing distinct trophic strategies that may underpin their survival in this UNESCO-listed coastal ecosystem.
Whole genome sequence analysis of population structure and insecticide resistance markers in Anopheles melas from the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
A novel analysis of the first whole-genome sequencing data from Anopheles melas, a malaria vector in Guinea-Bissau’s Bijagós Archipelago, reveals no presence of insecticide-resistant SNPs common to An. gambiae but identifies structural variation over resistance-associated genes, including a large duplication encompassing cyp9k1. Phylogenetic analysis further shows mitochondrial genome differentiation, splitting the population into two groups due to variations in COX I, COX II, and NADH dehydrogenase subunits. This study provides critical insights into the genetic diversity and potential insecticide resistance mechanisms of An. melas, though its role in malaria transmission remains to be fully elucidated.
Addressing data-deficiency of threatened sharks and rays in a highly dynamic coastal ecosystem using environmental DNA
A groundbreaking study reveals that environmental DNA (eDNA) is a highly effective, non-invasive tool for monitoring threatened shark and ray species in dynamic coastal ecosystems. Researchers detected 13 elasmobranch species, including seven threatened ones, from seawater samples in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau. The approach outperformed conventional fisheries-dependent methods by identifying species not recorded otherwise. Seasonal variations significantly influenced species composition and richness, with notable differences between pre- and post-rainy seasons. Surprisingly, no significant difference was found between protected (MPA) and non-protected areas, suggesting that MPAs may not fully capture the benefits of conservation efforts in such environments. This study underscores the potential of eDNA for biodiversity assessment in data-deficient regions.
Growth and population structure of bloody cockles Senilia senilis at Banc d’Arguin and Bijagós with different environmental conditions and harvesting regimes
Size-selective harvesting significantly alters the life history and demography of the bloody cockle, Senilia senilis. Research comparing harvested populations in Bijagós Archipelago (Guinea-Bissau) with unexploited ones at Banc d'Arguin (Mauritania) revealed that harvesting leads to denser but smaller-sized, older populations with lower standing biomass and reduced growth rates. At Bijagós, annual growth is threefold lower, and size-for-age is half compared to Banc d'Arguin. Environmental factors such as mangrove productivity at Bijagós and seagrass characteristics at Banc d'Arguin also influence population dynamics. These findings highlight the profound impact of harvesting on shellfish populations, offering critical insights for sustainable management in UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Heat stress increases risk taking in foraging shorebirds
Heat stress significantly increases risk-taking behavior in foraging shorebirds, as demonstrated by their reduced flight initiation distance (FID) and altered escape modes when exposed to higher temperatures. This study, conducted across 16 species of shorebirds in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, revealed that birds tolerated closer human proximity during hot conditions and dry seasons, particularly at the start or end of low tide periods. Additionally, individuals exhibiting heat-reduction behaviors like ptiloerection showed elevated corticosterone metabolite levels, linking physiological stress to behavioral responses. The findings suggest a trade-off between thermoregulation and predation risk, with birds adjusting their behavior based on environmental conditions and human presence. This research highlights the complex interplay of ecological and physiological factors influencing foraging strategies in shorebirds, with broader implications for understanding animal responses to global change.
Notes on the conservation threats to the western lesser spot-nosed monkey (Cercopithecus petaurista buettikoferi) in the Bijagós Archipelago (Guinea-Bissau, West Africa)
A new study reveals significant conservation threats to the western lesser spot-nosed monkey (Cercopithecus petaurista buettikoferi) in Guinea-Bissau's Bijagós Archipelago, including habitat loss and a previously undocumented commercial wild meat trade. While subsistence hunting has been noted, this research is the first to document organized commercial trafficking of the species from seaports to urban markets like Bissau and Bubaque Island. The study highlights the severe impact of such trade on small insular populations with limited carrying capacity, emphasizing the need for baseline research combining qualitative and quantitative methods to understand social drivers behind hunting threats.
Population dynamics and drug resistance mutations in Plasmodium falciparum on the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
Genomic analysis of Plasmodium falciparum isolates from the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, reveals that malaria parasites here closely resemble mainland West African populations without forming a distinct phylogenetic cluster. The study, the first to sequence P. falciparum genomes from this UNESCO-listed coastal ecosystem, identified fixed drug resistance mutations (PfDHFR N51I and S108N) linked to sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine resistance, alongside persistent chloroquine resistance (PfCRT K76T). Using 1.3 million SNPs across 795 African isolates, researchers analyzed dried blood spots from 15 asymptomatic cases, providing critical data for tracking drug resistance amid rising antimalarial use and regional chemoprevention efforts.
Protocol for a cluster randomised placebo-controlled trial of adjunctive ivermectin mass drug administration for malaria control on the Bijagós Archipelago of Guinea-Bissau: the MATAMAL trial
A groundbreaking trial on the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, investigates whether combining ivermectin with artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) can significantly enhance malaria control and transmission reduction. The MATAMAL trial, a cluster-randomized placebo-controlled study, aims to determine if adjunctive ivermectin mass drug administration (MDA) surpasses ACT alone in lowering Plasmodium falciparum parasitaemia prevalence during peak transmission seasons. By leveraging ivermectin's dual role—reducing vector survival while treating co-endemic diseases—the trial seeks to address challenges posed by ACT resistance and limited intervention coverage. With 24 clusters receiving either combined or placebo MDA, the study meticulously evaluates outcomes over two years, including malaria incidence, vector dynamics, and resistance markers. Ethical approvals from both UK and Guinea-Bissau ensure rigorous adherence to standards, while findings will inform global malaria elimination strategies.
Trophic ecology of a migratory shorebird community at a globally important non-breeding site: combining DNA metabarcoding and conventional techniques
A study of migratory shorebirds in the Bijagós Archipelago, a critical non-breeding site for East Atlantic Flyway species, reveals that these birds consume a remarkably diverse range of prey—including highly mobile crustaceans and fish—to reduce competition. Using DNA metabarcoding alongside traditional morphological identification, researchers analyzed 239 droppings from 15 shorebird species, uncovering four times more prey taxa than morphological methods alone. The findings highlight the importance of mobile prey in structuring shorebird communities, particularly in areas with limited benthic invertebrate availability. The study also underscores the need for expanded barcode databases to improve metabarcoding accuracy for invertebrates in West Africa.
Combining Multispectral and Radar Imagery with Machine Learning Techniques to Map Intertidal Habitats for Migratory Shorebirds
A groundbreaking mapping approach reveals that fiddler crabs occupy about 22% of intertidal flats in the Bijagós Archipelago, significantly influencing shorebird and benthic invertebrate communities. Using Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 imagery combined with a digital elevation model (DEM) and machine learning techniques, researchers achieved an 82% classification accuracy to distinguish key habitat types, including rocks, shell beds, macroalgae, bare sediments, and fiddler crab areas. The study identified sandy sediments as the dominant cover (59%) in this critical non-breeding site for migratory shorebirds in the East Atlantic Flyway. Elevation, moisture indexes, and radar data were the most influential predictors, demonstrating the power of remote sensing to map complex intertidal ecosystems. This work bridges a knowledge gap in monitoring biodiversity hotspots and offers vital insights for conservation efforts.
Fine-scale foraging segregation in a green turtle (Chelonia mydas) feeding ground in the Bijagós archipelago, Guinea Bissau
Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) exhibit fine-scale foraging segregation within the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea Bissau, with distinct habitat preferences and dietary patterns. Research reveals that smaller turtles favor sandy shallows rich in seagrass, while larger individuals prefer deeper rocky sites fringed by mangroves, despite both habitats supporting macroalgae-dominated diets. Stable isotope analysis confirmed this dichotomy, showing unique isotopic signatures for seagrass in shallower areas and a consistent preference for rhodophytes across size classes. The study highlights significant spatial heterogeneity in foraging behavior, even at small geographic scales (2.7 km apart), suggesting potential predation risks may limit larger turtles' access to diverse shallow habitats.
Green Turtles Highlight Connectivity Across a Regional Marine Protected Area Network in West Africa
Green turtles in West Africa's regional marine protected area (MPA) network, RAMPAO, exhibit significant connectivity across multiple countries, highlighting the importance of international conservation efforts. Satellite tracking of 45 female green turtles revealed that while 94.8% of their internesting positions were within MPAs, foraging behavior varied widely: some remained near breeding sites (40-90 km away), others migrated up to 1,000 km to Mauritania. Notably, 78% of foraging positions and 21% of migration corridors overlapped with RAMPAO MPAs, though critical areas like the Cap-Vert peninsula remain unprotected. This study underscores the role of MPA networks in green turtle conservation, offering actionable insights for expanding protected areas to meet global biodiversity targets.
Growth, maturity, and diet of the pearl whipray ( Fontitrygon margaritella ) from the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
Research on the pearl whipray (Fontitrygon margaritella) in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, reveals that this species exhibits rapid growth, early maturity, and significant ontogenetic diet shifts. The study estimated size-at-maturity at 20.3 cm for males and 24.3 cm for females, corresponding to ages of 2.2 and 3.9 years, respectively. Diet analysis showed that all life stages primarily consumed crustaceans and polychaetes, with notable variations among young-of-the-year (YOY), juveniles, and adults. The findings contribute valuable data for the conservation assessment and management of this elasmobranch species and its related taxa.
Linking trophic ecology with element concentrations in a coastal fish community of the Bijagós Archipelago, West Africa
Research reveals significant biomagnification of mercury (Hg) and selenium (Se) in coastal fish species of the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, with concentrations increasing alongside trophic position. The study analyzed 13 elements in muscle and liver tissues of 17 fish species, finding higher levels of Hg, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Se, and As in livers, while Sr and Ca were more abundant in muscles. Stable isotope analysis (δ13C and δ15N) linked these element patterns to trophic ecology, highlighting potential risks for human health given fish's importance as a protein source in the region.
Satellite tracking and field assessment highlight major foraging site for green turtles in the Banc d'Arguin, Mauritania
Research reveals the Banc d'Arguin (BA), a protected marine area off Mauritania, to be a critical foraging ground for green turtles. Using satellite tracking of 46 adult female green turtles from the Bijagós Archipelago—the nearest nesting site—scientists estimate that half of this population migrates to the BA post-nesting, totaling approximately 8,285 individuals. Further analysis suggests the BA hosts around 150,000 green turtles, including immature and adult specimens, underscoring its global significance. The study combines field assessments with demographic simulations, highlighting the BA's role as a major foraging hub and the importance of its strong conservation measures in safeguarding marine biodiversity.
Spatial and seasonal variation in macrozoobenthic density, biomass and community composition in a major tropical intertidal area, the Bijagós Archipelago, West-Africa
A study of the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, reveals significant spatial and seasonal variation in macrozoobenthic density, biomass, and community composition, with mean densities of 1871 ± 58.3 ind.m-2 and biomass of 5.65 ± 0.41 g AFDM.m-2. The research identified ca. 88 taxa across six intertidal flats in three islands, highlighting a highly species-rich community. Notably, density increased towards the end of the dry season (March and April), while community composition varied significantly between sites, with Adonga showing low diversity and high abundance of bivalve species, contrasting with the more diverse and similar communities of Anrumai and Abu. These findings provide a crucial baseline for understanding this tropical intertidal ecosystem's dynamics and its role in supporting migratory shorebirds and benthic fish nurseries.
Trace elements in relation to trophic ecology of long-distance migratory shorebirds and seabirds in West Africa
A study of trace elements in long-distance migratory shorebirds and seabirds in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, reveals that while exposure to most toxic elements is low, mercury (Hg) poses a potential high toxicity risk for at least one species, the Dunlin. The research analyzed blood samples from 16 species, finding positive relationships between selenium (Se), nickel (Ni), and trophic level (δ15N), as well as between habitat characteristics (δ13C) and Hg, iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and arsenic (As). Differences in trace element concentrations were also observed between the two trophic guilds, with seabirds showing higher levels of As, Pb, and Se compared to shorebirds. Despite high Cd and Pb concentrations previously reported in prey species, no toxicological risk was detected in birds for these elements. The study suggests that Hg warrants further monitoring due to its potential threat to coastal bird populations, particularly those experiencing local declines.
eDNA metabarcoding for diet analyses of green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas)
Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Bijagós Archipelago primarily consume red macroalgae, particularly from the Rhodymeniophycidae subclass, with incidental ingestion of diatoms. This dietary pattern was revealed using a novel, minimally invasive eDNA metabarcoding method targeting the 18S rRNA gene on esophageal and cloacal swab samples. Esophageal samples showed higher dietary richness (11 ± 5 ASVs) compared to cloacal ones (8 ± 2 ASVs), confirming feeding behavior through environmental DNA analysis. The study validates this approach as a powerful tool for understanding sea turtle trophic ecology, particularly in complex or inaccessible foraging habitats.
Industrial Fishing Near West African Marine Protected Areas and Its Potential Effects on Mobile Marine Predators
Industrial fishing near marine protected areas (MPAs) in West Africa significantly impacts mobile marine predators, such as elasmobranchs (sharks and rays), despite the absence of industrial activity within the MPAs themselves. A study analyzing spatiotemporal patterns of fishing effort near the Parc National du Banc d'Arguin (Mauritania) and the Bijagós Archipelago (Guinea Bissau) found that 72–78% of their buffer zones were fished, with trawling, drifting longlines, and fixed gears being predominant. Elasmobranch bycatch showed seasonal peaks, correlating with migratory species' movements, and increased in recent years near Mauritania. The research combined Automatic Identification System (AIS) data and fisheries observer records to assess fishing effort and its ecological implications, highlighting the potential disruption of ecosystem functioning due to the removal of predatory species.
Mangrove-mudflat connectivity shapes benthic communities in a tropical intertidal system
Mangrove-mudflat connectivity significantly shapes benthic communities in tropical intertidal systems, revealing both direct and indirect effects on macrobenthic composition and species abundance. Researchers developed a mangrove connectivity index (MCI) to quantify the relationship between mudflats and adjacent mangrove stands in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that MCI influenced benthic communities directly and indirectly through microphytobenthos activity, while sediment properties also played an independent but interconnected role. This study underscores the importance of considering seascape structure for integrative conservation efforts, particularly in protecting critical habitats for endangered fish and waders.
Using Sentinel-2 Images to Estimate Topography, Tidal-Stage Lags and Exposure Periods over Large Intertidal Areas
A novel method using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery successfully estimated intertidal topography and exposure periods in the Bijagós Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau, with high accuracy. The study introduced a four-parameter logistic regression to model intertidal topography and developed a technique to correct for tidal-stage lags, addressing geographical biases caused by water height variations within each image. This approach closely matched official tide-stage data and demonstrated strong correlation with in-situ exposure period measurements. The findings underscore the potential of remote sensing to provide large-scale, high-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) and tidal data, offering critical insights for coastal safety, ecology, and biodiversity conservation efforts.
Intertidal Bathymetry Extraction with Multispectral Images: A Logistic Regression Approach
A novel methodology for estimating intertidal bathymetry using multispectral remote sensing images demonstrates superior accuracy compared to existing techniques. By modeling the temporal variability of near-infrared (IR) reflectance with a sigmoid function, researchers can derive pixel elevation without requiring additional depth data for calibration. This approach, validated in the Tagus river estuary and the Bijagós archipelago, achieves a standard deviation of 0.34 m and outperforms the Stumpf ratio transform algorithm. The resulting intertidal digital elevation models (DEMs) offer 10-meter spatial resolution, enabling automated updates to cartographic data and enhancing monitoring of intertidal dynamics. This method holds significant potential for morphodynamic modeling and environmental assessments in UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Bijagós Archipelago.
The use of islands and cluster-randomized trials to investigate vector control interventions: a case study on the Bijagós archipelago, Guinea-Bissau
Island settings offer unique advantages for testing vector control interventions, with the Bijagós archipelago in Guinea-Bissau emerging as a promising site. This study highlights how cluster-randomized trials can effectively evaluate new strategies to combat vector-borne diseases by leveraging natural island boundaries to minimize contamination and ensure robust statistical power. The research emphasizes the importance of carefully considering cluster size, separation, and human/vector movement to maintain trial integrity. By showcasing the Bijagós archipelago as a case study, the work provides valuable insights into designing future intervention studies in similar environments.
Mangrove system sustainability: public incentives and local strategies in West Africa.
Public incentives and local strategies can significantly enhance the sustainability of mangrove systems, particularly through shellfish enhancement initiatives. This study, conducted across two West African Marine Protected Areas—the Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve in Senegal and the Bolama Bijagos Archipelago in Guinea Bissau—demonstrates how value-adding schemes like labeling align with local biodiversity management practices. By employing an interdisciplinary approach involving biology, economics, history, and geography, researchers assessed the potential of these initiatives to improve both biological and cultural diversity in mangrove ecosystems. The findings highlight the importance of reconciling local strategies with national and international policies to foster equitable benefit-sharing and sustainable development.
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World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Coastal and Marine Ecosystems of the Bijagós Archipelago – Omatí Minhô