Publications
Species richness and endemicity of carnivorans in protected areas of the Yucatan Peninsula
Only 9.48% of critical habitats for carnivoran species richness and endemicity in the Yucatán Peninsula are currently protected, despite these areas being vital for conservation. The study identified that southern Quintana Roo, southeastern Campeche, the Tabasco-Chiapas border, and northern Belize-Guatemala exhibit peak species richness, while Cozumel Island and south-central Tabasco show high endemicity. Using ecological niche modeling and diversity range analysis, researchers mapped these patterns to assess representation within existing protected areas (PAs). Key PAs partially covering priority zones include Sierra del Lacandón, Laguna del Tigre, Tikal, Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Parks in Guatemala; Rio Bravo Conservation Area in Belize; and Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. The findings emphasize the urgent need to expand PA coverage to safeguard the region's unique carnivoran assemblages and their ecosystem functions.
New queen? Evidence of a long-living Jaguar Panthera onca (Mammalia: Carnivora: Felidae) in Tikal National Park, Guatemala
Researchers have identified evidence suggesting the presence of a long-living jaguar (Panthera onca) within Tikal National Park, Guatemala. This individual, likely a female, was recorded during a 2018 camera trapping study and traced back to 2009, indicating potential long-term residency in one of the largest conserved forests in the Neotropics, the Selva Maya. The findings highlight the need for systematic, long-term studies to evaluate jaguar populations and assess the effectiveness of protected areas in ensuring species conservation. This discovery contributes to the limited understanding of jaguar longevity and residency patterns in wild environments.
Inscripciones jeroglíficas mayas misceláneas sobre cerámica del Clásico Temprano en el Parque Nacional Tikal, Guatemala
A previously overlooked fragment of Maya hieroglyphic text from Tikal National Park, Guatemala, reveals the earliest known mention of the enigmatic title 'tumam' and provides insights into an unknown royal lineage from the Petén region during the Early Classic period. This discovery stems from a 2013 project focused on re-documenting ceramic collections at the Tikal Conservation and Research Center (CCIT). The research, part of the 'Epigraphic Atlas of Peten, Phase I,' aimed to analyze lesser-studied hieroglyphic texts preserved in the park. By systematically re-examining ceramic fragments, the study uncovered significant epigraphic evidence that contributes to our understanding of Maya dynastic accounts and titles during this crucial period.
Modelling the ancient maize agriculture potential of landforms in Tikal National Park, Guatemala
A predictive model of ancient maize agriculture in Tikal National Park reveals that bajo margins were likely used for sustained farming, while upland Rendolls soils showed long-term C3 vegetation signatures, suggesting diverse food production systems. The study combined non-parametric regression, stable carbon isotopes, soil properties, and remote-sensing data to identify areas with strong C4 isotopic enrichment indicative of maize cultivation. Upland regions lacked clear C4 signals, implying alternative land-use practices such as silviculture or forest gardens. This approach provides a cost-effective method for reconstructing subsistence strategies in ancient polities.
You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > World Heritage Sites > Tikal National Park