Conservation

Understanding genetic variation in commercially valuable tree species is essential for improving breeding and conservation efforts. This study investigates genetic variation, heritability, and trait relationships in Pterocarpus macrocarpus, a vital hardwood species for Thailand’s reforestation initiatives. We evaluated growth (height and diameter), morphology (biomass dry weight and specific leaf weight), and physiological traits (net photosynthesis [A], transpiration rate [E], and water-use efficiency [WUE]) across 112 open-pollinated families from six natural populations under controlled nursery conditions over 30 weeks. Using a randomised complete block design, variance and covariance analyses were conducted to estimate genetic parameters. Seedling survival reached 95%, confirming favourable conditions for genetic expression. There were significant differences among populations and families within populations in growth and biomass. In contrast, physiological traits showed notable family-level variation (A, E, WUE) and only population effects for WUE. Residual variance was predominant across traits, indicating considerable within-family variation. Growth and biomass exhibited moderate to high heritability (individual: 0.39–1.00; family: 0.61–0.90), while specific leaf weight and shoot-to-root ratio had lower heritability at the individual level. Physiological traits showed low to moderate heritabilities (individual: 0.26–0.43; family: 0.47–0.62), with maternal effects via seed weight significantly influencing early growth. The heritability of height decreased over time, whereas the heritability of diameter remained stable. Strong genetic correlations among growth and biomass suggest the potential for combined selection gains. However, physiological traits show weak or no correlations with growth, highlighting their independent genetic control. Variation at the population level in growth and WUE may reflect adaptive responses to seed-source environments. Our findings support the use of nursery-based screening as a cost-effective method for the early identification of high-quality families. WUE is a promising focus for breeding programs targeting drought-prone regions. This study provides key insights for advancing the genetic improvement and conservation of P. macrocarpus, emphasizing the importance of incorporating physiological traits into breeding and conservation strategies. Full article

The periphery of Lomami National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) is experiencing intense and increasing hunting pressure, driven by both local subsistence needs and growing urban demand for bushmeat. This situation poses a serious challenge to sustainable natural resource management and underscores the need to realign protected-area policies with the realities faced by surrounding communities. In the absence of comprehensive ecological monitoring, this study used hunters’ perceptions to assess the current availability of mammalian wildlife around the park. From October to December 2023, surveys were conducted using a snowball sampling method with 60 hunters from nine villages bordering the park. Results show that hunting is a male-dominated activity, mainly practiced by individuals aged 30–40 years, with firearms as the primary tools. It occurs both in the park’s buffer zones and, alarmingly, within its core protected area. This practice has contributed to the local disappearance of key species such as African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), African buffalo (Syncerus caffer), and African leopard (Panthera pardus pardus), and to the marked decline of several Cephalophus species. These patterns of overexploitation reveal critical weaknesses in current conservation strategies and point to the urgent need for integrated, community-based resource management approaches. Strengthening law enforcement, improving ranger support, and enhancing participatory governance mechanisms are essential. Equally important is the promotion of sustainable alternative livelihoods—including livestock farming, aquaculture, and agroforestry—to reduce hunting dependence and build long-term resilience for both biodiversity and local communities. Full article

As tropical forests become increasingly vulnerable to land use changes, fragmentation, and climate shifts, efforts to minimise species loss are essential. Prevalent in most environments and having complex vocalisations, birds are key indicators of ecosystem health and a good model for acoustic monitoring. In Brazil, the Caparaó National Park (CNP) is a preserved remnant of the Atlantic Forest with great avian endemism. Despite having >600 species, limited research has utilised bioacoustics for species assessment. This study employed bioacoustics to examine soundscapes and community composition at two CNP locations—one with ombrophilous montane forest (OMF) and another with semi-deciduous seasonal forest (SSF). Four SongMeters were deployed, recording bird choruses from 08:00 to 11:00 a.m. for two months. Soundscape profiles and species composition were characterised using Raven Pro. Acoustic indices assessed correlations with avian species richness, and sites were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. Ninety-eight species were detected, and species richness was greater within SSF. While acoustic indices had little impact on richness, they identified differing soundscapes: more ambient noise in OMF, and gunshots detected in SSF. The results indicate that bioacoustics can aid monitoring strategies. Given the presence of rare species and illegal activities, more studies are needed to support the conservation of birds in this critical environment. Full article

Major human impacts on New Zealand’s ecology began about 800 years ago with immigration firstly from Polynesia, then Europe starting a few centuries later. The humans cleared habitat, hunted species to extinction, and introduced biota, including plants, birds, fish, invertebrates, and mammals. Over the last 70 years, government-funded campaigns have been waged against some of the introduced mammals that became considered harmful to native biota. These campaigns spread poisonous food baits from aircraft to kill and suppress target animals (mainly brushtail possums (Trichosurus vulpecula) and rats (Rattus spp.)) over large areas. Increased intensity, frequency, and scale of poisoning are being trialled under a new conservation strategy (Predator Free 2050) to eradicate several mammalian species. The present study investigates the opportunity for a paradigm shift in conservation, emphasizing the rationales for transitioning from spreading of pesticides to a more targeted approach. NZ’s poison- and predator-focused ecological management has been criticized internationally as cruel and unnecessary, while independent NZ ecologists have called for, and outlined, a new system of conservation management based on ecological knowledge, which embraces all threats to native biota. A central tenet of proposed new methods is the engagement of all relevant stakeholders. Efficient management tools include remote monitoring, and smart, self-resetting kill traps for targeted small mammal control. Ecology-driven, commercially sound, targeted, monitored, relatively humane management can be implemented to protect the remnants of NZ’s natural heritage. Full article

This article addresses agroforestry knowledge and practices of peasant and quilombola women. It draws from research using ethnographic methods, conducted in two different Brazilian communities: with peasant women in the municipality of Pinhão, Paraná, Brazil, and with quilombola women in the Quilombo Ribeirão Grande-Terra Seca in the municipality of Barra do Turvo, in the Ribeira Valley, São Paulo, Brazil. This investigation demonstrates the connection between the exploitation of nature and the oppression of women, and it identifies counter-practices that value cooperation and mutual care. It highlights the importance of recovering ancestral knowledge and resisting the rupture with nature imposed by colonialism. The conclusion indicates that these agroforestry practices play a crucial role in the lives of women and in their resistance to the monocultural model and the market economy in both communities studied. In both communities, women play a central role in sustaining agroforestry practices as forms of resistance, care, and cultural preservation. In Pinhão, peasant women uphold biodiversity and traditional knowledge through everyday practices like seed exchange and in the Quilombo Ribeirão Grande-Terra Seca, quilombola women link agroforestry to identity, territorial defense, and Black resistance. Full article

This paper introduces and defines ‘Living Cultural Infrastructure’ as dynamic social-ecological systems where plant heritage and community knowledge are co-produced to reclaim degraded urban landscapes. Addressing the dual challenges of ecological degradation and cultural erosion, we demonstrate this concept through a case study on the Maekha Canal in Chiang Mai, Thailand, employing Participatory Landscape Architecture integrated with urban ethnobotany. Through co-design workshops, biocultural spatial analysis, and ethnobotanical surveys involving 20 key community members, the project engaged residents to reclaim the canal as a functional biocultural corridor. The research documented 149 culturally significant plant species and resulted in a co-created trail system that embodies the principles of a living infrastructure, fostering intergenerational knowledge exchange and strengthening community stewardship. This study demonstrates how a participatory, ethnobotany-informed process can regenerate degraded urban waterways into Living Cultural Infrastructure. The research advances a new paradigm for landscape architecture by providing replicable governance and design tools. Full article

Climate change is altering environmental conditions, which can, in turn, change the geographic distribution and flowering patterns of plant species, affecting both the plants themselves and their pollinators. The responses of melliferous plant species to climate change in southeastern Mexico are poorly understood, which hinders an accurate assessment of their vulnerability and the resulting ecological impacts. As understanding the mechanisms that influence the distribution and susceptibility of these species is essential, the present study examined how climate change affects their potential distribution areas and spatial distribution patterns. This information will serve as reference data for the implementation of conservation strategies and inform the selection of species for reforestation. Ecological niche models were used to estimate the potential distributions of 92 melliferous species under both current environmental conditions and two climate change scenarios projected for the 2041–2060 period (SSP245 and SSP585). Changes in distribution patterns were then assessed by evaluating the range size of each species and analyzing the spatio–temporal trends in species richness. The results revealed that suitable habitats shifted for approximately 80% of melliferous species, with more significant habitat loss observed under the SSP585 scenario than under SSP245. Although a significant decrease in melliferous plant species richness was expected in future scenarios, richness was slightly higher (by 10% for SSP245 and 5% for SSP585) than that observed under current environmental conditions. Under SSP245 conditions, species richness areas expanded to encompass almost the entire region, although this contrasted drastically with the SSP585 scenario, where areas with the highest concentration of species richness contracted significantly and areas with low species richness expanded. These projections are of potential use for conservationists and environmental management authorities, providing crucial insights into the future distributions of several melliferous plant species in the region, the potential impacts of climate change on their habitats, and the vulnerability of threatened species to changing climatic conditions. Full article

The apple snail Pila globosa is a widely distributed mollusc in tropical freshwater ecosystems, where it plays a crucial ecological role. This study examined the morphometric features, condition indices, and reproductive traits of P. globosa to gain insights into its population structure in the Ratargul Freshwater Swamp Forest, Bangladesh. Water quality parameters were recorded, and various morphometric measurements were analysed, including their correlations and seasonal variations. The mean values for shell length, shell weight, shell width, spiral length, base length, aperture length, aperture width, and soft tissue wet weight were 4.64 ± 0.97 cm, 38.29 ± 15.27 g, 3.56 ± 0.74 cm, 2.32 ± 0.51 cm, 3.33 ± 0.74 cm, 3.46 ± 0.64 cm, 2.01 ± 0.45 cm, and 18.05 ± 11.39 g, respectively. Linear regression analyses revealed strong correlations among length–length and length–weight parameters, indicating consistent growth patterns. Monthly frequency distributions showed distinct variations in shell size and form. The sex ratio was 1:1.23 (male–female), not significantly different from parity. Histological analysis during the rainy season revealed reproductive activity, including mature ova, previtellogenic and vitellogenic oocytes, and spermatogonia and spermatids. These findings enhance understanding of the species’ biology and its interaction with environmental conditions, offering valuable data for the conservation and management of freshwater mollusc populations in wetland ecosystems. Full article

Human–wildlife conflict (HWC) is intensifying in Japan, driven by complex socio-ecological changes. While the Social–Ecological Systems (SES) framework offers a valuable analytical tool, standard applications often fail to capture the crucial cultural specificities, demographic pressures, and institutional dynamics that define the Japanese context. This paper addresses these limitations by conducting a scoping review of academic and policy literature in order to synthesize the evidence needed to develop a culturally and institutionally attuned adaptation of the SES framework. The review’s findings confirm that profound demographic change (kaso and kōreika), unique institutional arrangements (the Ryōyūkai crisis), deep-seated cultural values, and asymmetric power relations are core systemic drivers of HWC, not external factors. Building on this evidence, we propose a theoretically grounded adapted framework that internalizes these factors as endogenous variables. The resulting framework serves as a more robust diagnostic tool for understanding and navigating HWC in Japan. It facilitates the identification of context-specific leverage points and offers a transferable methodological model for adapting SES analysis to other culturally distinct and rapidly changing societies. Full article

ROSCI0135 Bârnova-Repedea Forest, covering 12,236.20 ha, is a relatively large Natura 2000 site from Romania, though not as large as other Natura 2000 sites. However, in terms of the number of invertebrate species of community importance, with 18 species present, Bârnova Forest ranks as the fourth richest site in Romania, with the following species: Helix pomatia, Cordulegaster heros, Coenagrion ornatum, Paracaloptenus caloptenoides, Carabus variolosus, Rhysodes sulcatus, Cucujus cinnaberinus, Rosalia alpina, Morimus funereus, Cerambyx cerdo, Lucanus cervus, Bolbelasmus unicornis, Osmoderma barnabita (eremita), Parnassius mnemosyne, Zerynthia polyxena, Euphydryas maturna, Lycaena dispar, and Euplagia quadripunctaria. Bârnova-Repedea Forest can be considered a true mosaic of habitats, providing favourable conditions for the existence of these rare Natura 2000 species. The threats to the site are complex and challenging to manage. Full article

Due to small population size, Population Viability Analysis (PVA) of endangered species often pools all individuals into a single matrix to decrease variation in estimation of transition rates. These pooled populations may mask significant environmental variation among populations, affecting estimates. Using 10 years of population data (2000–2010) on the endangered plant Jacquemontia reclinata in Southeastern Florida, USA, I parameterized a stage-structured matrix model and calculated annual growth rates (lambdas)and elasticity for each year using stochastic matrix models. The metapopulation model incorporating actual dynamics of the two largest populations showed a lower occupancy rate and higher risk of extinction at an earlier time compared to a model that used the average of all natural populations. Analyses were consistent that incorporating population variation versus average dynamics in modeling J. reclinata demography results in more variation and greater extinction risk. Local variation may be due to both weather (including minimum winter temperature and total annual precipitation) and local disturbance dynamics in these urban preserves. Full article

Ex situ conservation is a vital strategy of preserving plant species at risk, offering practical methods to obtain information regarding species-specific germination characteristics. Campanula pangea, a local endemic species of NE Greece, has been previously classified as vulnerable, partly due to the lack of knowledge about its biology. This study focused on the germination behaviour of C. pangea stored seeds by assessing their germination success under the effects of incubation temperature and gibberellic acid (GA₃). To contextualize the experimental conditions, a bioclimatic profile of the species was developed using open-access temperature and precipitation data that characterize its natural habitat. The results showed that the optimal germination temperature range for C. pangea is 15–20 °C. Pre-treatment of seeds with GA₃ solution (1000 mg L⁻¹) widened the germination range of the seeds only at the low temperature of 10 °C. The experimentation results showed that the seeds of C. pangea exhibit dormancy. These findings contribute to the development of a species-specific germination protocol for ex situ propagation and conservation, enhance understanding of the species’ germination requirements, and thus support future conservation efforts and assessments of extinction risk, or other ornamental applications and/or targeted medicinal research. Full article

What elements of nature do people involved in conservation projects seek to protect, and why? How do they identify and relate to nature? Answers to such fundamental questions are shaped by normative assumptions that can result in distinct conservation strategies and practices. Despite their importance, normative assumptions are rarely explicitly stated in conservation sciences, possibly because an epistemology of modern science suggests that normative backgrounds are not relevant to the production of objective knowledge, or because researchers and practitioners are unaware of the diversity of positions that exist. Using a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, we created a catalogue of existing normative positions in conservation literature and described their key characteristics. We described 72 distinctive normative positions about human–nature relationships. Each position was characterized by unique combinations of value-states belonging to one or more of the following five dimensions: ontology (the positionality of human with respect to nature), axiology (value systems and ethical frameworks), pragmatism (extent of human interventions), epistemology (knowledge sources), and agency (agents of change). We then scored each position in terms of its alignment (support, opposition, or neutrality) with respect to all value-states within each dimension. A fuzzy correspondence analysis revealed that the field of conservation is heterogeneous beyond the conventional gradient of intrinsic–instrumental–relational values. The frequency and circumstances under which stakeholders adopt different normative positions are unknown, but the list of dimensions and associated values provided in this study may serve as a checklist for scoping this diversity. Consideration of values stemming from alternative normative positions may help broaden support for conservation actions. Full article

The rubber plantations in Sankuru province, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), have historically been pivotal to the regional economy. However, the absence of suitable silvicultural practices has promoted self-regeneration, resulting in the proliferation of diverse species. This study aims to characterize species richness and plant structure of these plantations. To this end, 80 subplots measuring 0.25 hectares were meticulously established, with a proportionate division between state-owned and farmer plantations. The results obtained from this study indicate that these plantations are home to approximately 105 species, classified into 33 distinct botanical families, with dominant families such as Fabaceae, Meliaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Olacaceae, Clusiaceae, and Moraceae. Despite the similarity between the two types of plantations (Cs = 58%), significant disparities were observed in terms of individuals, 635 ± 84.06 and 828 ± 144.62 (p < 10⁻³); species, 41 ± 7.49 and 28 ± 4.59 (p < 10⁻³); families, 19 ± 3.06 and 16 ± 1.62 (p < 10⁻²); and basal area, 29.88 ± 5.8 and 41.37 ± 7.57 (p < 10⁻²) for state and peasant plantations, respectively. State plantations exhibited greater diversity (H′ = 1.87) and enhanced equity (J’ = 0.43) than peasant plantations. The diametric structure exhibited an inverted J-shaped distribution, indicating constant and regular regeneration of these plantations. The upper canopy dominates the vertical structure in both types of plantations, with a significantly higher proportion in peasant plantations (83.60%) than in state plantations (73.8%), ANOVA (F (2.24 = 21.78), df = 24; p = 4.03 × 10⁻⁶). The findings indicate that the sustainable management of these plantations could incorporate agroecological principles to promote the coexistence of rubber production and biodiversity conservation while contributing to the restoration of degraded ecosystems and the well-being of local communities. Full article

Accurate taxonomy is fundamental for assessing extinction risks and implementing conservation strategies. We evaluated the extinction risk of Grindelia atlantica (Asteraceae), endemic to southern Brazil, using the IUCN criteria, and comparing three scenarios of taxonomic accuracy and data availability. Herbaria records and field surveys confirmed the historical existence of five records and currently only two remaining, isolated populations, totaling 633 individuals (513 in Pelotas and Rio Grande; 120 in Jaguarão). Habitat loss and invasive species are the primary threats. Analyses resulted in an Extent of Occurrence of 475.832 km² and an Area of Occupancy of 36 km². These findings, coupled with significant population decline, justify the classification as Critically Endangered. The results emphasize the critical role of reliable taxonomy in conservation biology. They demonstrate the impact of a few errors on extinction risk assessments, which can unfold in the misallocation of resources or insufficient protection. This is critical, particularly for endemic species like G. atlantica in the threatened Pampas, one of Brazil’s most degraded biomes and the least represented in preserves. The creation of a conservation unit is proposed as an urgent measure to ensure the survival of this species and its habitat, benefiting other endemic and rare threatened animal and plant species. Full article

Scientific research in Amazonia plays a fundamental role in identifying pathways to sustainable development for the region, addressing the challenges posed by climate change, preserving its unique ecosystems, and aligning with societal challenges and rights advocated by its diverse populations. This paper encompasses a broad range of scientific publications, spanning from 1977 to 2024, and highlights key research areas, analyzing their results and trends to inform future developments. It also identifies areas that require deeper investigation. The results emphasize a focus on agricultural, biological, and environmental sciences. On the other hand, there is a need for more extensive research within the social sciences. As shown, research on indigenous land rights, cultural heritage, and the socio-economic impacts of environmental disruptions is essential for developing comprehensive conservation strategies. Furthermore, research on governance, policy, and socio-political dynamics in Amazonia can provide innovative approaches to addressing the challenges and opportunities for its people, biodiversity, and role in climate regulation, as demonstrated by the findings. The strategic research fields identified in this paper provide a guide for future studies and policy development aimed at protecting the forest and its inhabitants. This study emphasizes the need for approaches that integrate both natural and social sciences as essential for addressing the complex ecological and socio-economic challenges that continue to shape the contemporary research landscape. Furthermore, this paper highlights the importance of unity and cooperation among Amazonian countries and research institutions in achieving these goals. In this context, reinforcing long-term, large-scale research programs such as the LBA (Large-Scale Biosphere–Atmosphere Experiment in Amazonia) and the Scientific Panel for the Amazon (SPA) are crucial to advancing integrated, policy-relevant science for the sustainable future of the region. Full article

Phytoremediation is based on the use of plants to decontaminate water and soil. In this work, the capacity of high Andean vegetation in the absorption and translocation of heavy metals was analyzed. Species were identified to analyze the presence of metals in roots, stems, and leaves by spectrometry. The translocation factor was determined and analyzed by means of pattern clusters. Based on the floristic inventory, the dominance of the Poaceae and Asteraceae families was determined, and 12 plant species with a high importance value were selected. According to the ICP-AES, mercury (951.07 mg/kg) was determined in the roots of Lachemilla orbiculata, and chromium (21.88 mg/kg) in Carex bonplandii. Arsenic (2.79 mg/kg) was detected as being significantly higher than the values recorded in lowland plants. Cadmium mobility was high in all species, reaching higher values in Baccharis salicifolia (86.28%) and Calamagrostis intermedia (37.16%). Rumex acetocella accumulated lead in leaves (9.27%), while Taraxacum officinale (1.20%) and Calamagrostis intermedia (1.20%) accumulated silicon. Stabilization of chromium, mercury, and sodium was determined in the roots without translocation to higher organs. Finally, cluster analysis showed physiological interactions between metals as a toxicity mitigation mechanism affecting mobility. These findings suggest that they are hyperaccumulator species. Full article

The drastic and historic fall in natural rubber prices has prompted many smallholders around the world to abandon rubber plantations in favor of other survival alternatives. In the Lomela and Lodja territories of Sankuru Province (Democratic Republic of Congo), where a historical absence of a rubber market prevails, local communities have conserved rubber plantations inherited from the colonial era (dating back to 1955). Data collected from 401 households enabled us to identify the perceptions and determinants of rubber plantation conservation. The results show that households are highly dependent on forest ecosystem services. Agriculture is the main activity for 81.3% of respondents, in the context of extreme poverty where daily incomes amount to 0.33 USD/person. The patriarchal system favored men, who inherited 97% of the plantations. Men perceived the conservation of the plantations as beneficial, while women perceived it as serving external project interests. Perceptions were significantly influenced by gender, age, social and legal organization, geographical origin, mode of acquisition, main activity, diversification of income sources, membership in a tribal mutuality, access to the informal mutual aid networks, membership in an association and contact with extension services. Conservation was positively and significantly correlated with geographical origin, membership in an association, contact with extension service, consideration of plantations as natural heritage and the ecosystem services provided. These results underline that rubber plantations cannot be understood only in terms of rubber production, but also in terms of their socio-ecological and heritage dimensions. Full article

Previous studies have consistently reported the detrimental impact of dam construction on natural populations of softshell turtles across East and Southeast Asia, with particularly severe effects on large-bodied species. The Wattle-necked Softshell Turtle (Palea steindachneri), a large-sized and Critically Endangered member of the family Trionychidae, remains poorly documented throughout much of its native range in Southeast Asia. In this study, we present new field data from the Đà River basin in northern Vietnam, encompassing areas both upstream and downstream of the Sơn La Dam. Data were obtained through a combination of direct field observations, camera trap monitoring, and semi-structured interviews with local fishers and traders. Two individuals of P. steindachneri—including a juvenile—were recorded, providing the first confirmed evidence of ongoing natural reproduction in the region. Additionally, we documented 102 individuals of Pelodiscus sp., encompassing all life stages and indicating a stable, reproducing local population. Despite overlapping in macrohabitat use along the river, the two species were spatially segregated, with a minimum interspecific distance of 8.2 km, suggesting broad sympatry without syntopy, potentially due to microhabitat partitioning. These findings underscore the persistence and likely reproductive viability of P. steindachneri in modified riverine systems affected by dams, and have broader conservation implications for other threatened taxa with similar ecologies, such as Rafetus swinhoei. Urgent conservation actions, including habitat protection, community-based monitoring, and strengthened regulation of the wildlife trade, are essential to ensure the survival of remaining wild populations. Full article