Conservancy Research Articles

“Return us where we can hunt and gather”: hierarchies and social structures that sustain exclusion of San minority in Zimbabwe

PurposeThe paper seeks to analyse the constellation of social structures, administrative institutions and hierarchies that sustain the exclusion of the San minority group in Zimbabwe, with a particular focus on how the European expansion in the eighteenth century, the modern state and private property owners have colluded to perpetuate exclusion from accessing forest as their natural habitat. The purpose of this paper is to therefore highlight the various abuses, including those social, administrative legislative frameworks that discriminate against the San minority and it advocates for actions the right to consultation and the right to free, prior and informed consent to proposed developments.Design/methodology/approachThrough the modern ethnographic approach, data generation was guided by the principles of indigenous and decolonising research methodologies, which place emphasis on the importance of San people telling their own stories thereby shifting the power of a researcher to the indigenous participants. This is a qualitative study that gives prominence to the descriptions of experiences (phenomenology) and interpretations (hermeneutic) of their survival. The paper employed cultural ecology theoretical framework as a lens through which to see the San’s exclusion from forest resources and how this has tragically shifted their egalitarian lifestyle characterised by reciprocity, sharing and levelling to adaptation to the unfamiliar sedentary farming practices.FindingsThe technical implementation of forest boundary demarcation and forcing the San to join sedentary farming form part of the state’s territorialisation that excludes, restricts and disrupts the San minority from accessing forest products. The treatment of the minority group reveals not only the enormous authority of the state to transfer alienation to individuals and companies but also to legitimise the exclusion by establishing laws and policies that safeguard the interests of those favoured by the state. The San, who are already overly dominated by the social administrative structures of the Ndebele and Kalanga tribes, lack systematic and organised responses to their marginalisation.Originality/valueThe San community in Zimbabwe is under-researched and under-theorised particularly in relation to how historically formed postcolonial hierarchies of exclusion and marginalisation manifest themselves in contemporary resource governance. Less is known about how those that are powerful – government officials, private property owners and Kalanga/Ndebele tribes benefit more from the environmental resources than the powerless minority San, whose livelihoods depend on the primary natural resources. The unequal power relations have been demonstrated by the evictions of the minority from wildlife areas that were converted into game parks. The study reveals how indigenous San not only resist exclusion but also develop adaptable strategies through negotiations to improve their situation with social and administrative institutions.

The Application of the Total Ergonomics (SHIP) Method in Science and Technology for the Regional Development (PIPK): Case Study at Munduk Village, Bali

Empowerment is a fundamental effort aimed at enhancing community capabilities and fostering greater participation in decision-making processes related to uplifting living standards. For example, Munduk is one of the tourist villages in Bali with several challenges such as the lack of appropriate tourist attraction areas to be used as an economic center and low productivity from community work. The problems have led to less optimal competitiveness in providing original income for community in the village. Therefore, community empowerment method was required to manage the potential of the village as a conservation, agricultural, coffee, and clove processing area and also tourism destination. This led to the implementation of SHIP (systemic, holistic, interdisciplinary, and participatory) ergonomics method to promote active participation of all parties in identifying problems to be fixed and determining the appropriate technology to be used. The process focused on a thorough analysis of the technology based on six criteria, including technical, economical, ergonomics, socio-cultural, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness aspects. The method was used to provide a conducive working mechanism and quality products in accordance with the demands of the times. Moreover, ergonomics method implemented with the participation of all parties led to an increase in knowledge and understanding of community entrepreneurship by 25.3%, clove post-harvest processing productivity 22.7%, and tourist visits 5.6%.

Phylogenetic diversity of the Pristimantis anaiae species group, with a description of a new species of Pristimantis (Anura, Strabomantidae) from Cerro Candelaria, Tungurahua, Ecuador

Continuous field work on mountains in the upper Pastaza watershed, showed an unexpected cryptic diversity in the recently described Pristimantis anaiae species group. Based on molecular and morphological characters we describe a new frog species from the central region of the eastern Ecuadorian Andes. We present an updated phylogeny for the Pristimantis anaiae species group, based on widely used, ubiquitous, and available genes, three mitochondrial genes (12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, ND1) and RAG1 nuclear gene. Our phylogenetic hypothesis increases genetic diversity of the species group and shows two well-supported subclades. We show the relationships of the new species and include for the first time Pristimantis maryanneae, belonging to a clade related to P. resistencia + P. glendae. Our phylogeny shows that new species, from Cerro Candelaria, is more closely related to P. kunam from Sangay National Park and differs from it by having a less conspicuous dorsolateral row of enlarged tubercles, and sacral oval marks surrounded by thin white pale lines. The new species and two additional undescribed species occur on the south side of the Rio Pastaza Valley, at Cerro Candelaria within the Llanganates – Sangay Ecological Corridor, reflecting the high importance of this area for conservation and understanding of evolution processes in the area, suggesting a probably adaptive radiation zone for the P. anaiae species group.

EROSION HAZARD LEVEL PREDICTION IN LAKE OF SENTARUM AREA

The Sentarum Lake region, a conservation area in Kalimantan, is integral to the Kapuas River Basin, which is recognized nationally. Ensuring its sustainability demands diverse studies, including erosion risk assessment. Accurate predictions are vital due to the region's ecosystem role in West Kalimantan. Estimating erosion magnitude provides crucial data on sedimentation, which impacts the sustainability of endemic flora and fauna. This study aims to (a) pinpoint erosion factors in Lake of Sentarum, (b) assess erosion hazard levels, (c) create an erosion hazard map with ArcGIS, and (d) prescribe soil conservation measures. Methods encompassed (a) field and institutional surveys for data gathering and (b) the USLE method for erosion hazard analysis. Identifying erosion factors in the Sentarum Lake area reveals rainfall, soil type, slope, and land cover as significant influencers. Analysis indicates heavy erosion hazards for Inceptisol and Utilosol soils, except in areas with primary dryland forest or flat-sloped dryland agriculture where hazards are heavy. Peat-containing soils are especially prone to erosion. Oxisol soils on flat slopes with agricultural land cover face heavy hazards, while moderate hazards occur in dryland agriculture on steeper slopes. The region faces considerable erosion risk, particularly in specific soil and land cover conditions, emphasizing the need for targeted soil conservation measures. Thus, the Sentarum Lake area is highly susceptible to erosion, necessitating specific soil conservation measures. Structural methods like constructing bench terraces prove more effective than non-structural ones, such as tillage and contour line planting, reducing erosion hazard by approximately 96%.

Injection-based approaches for controlling Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) invasion in conservation efforts of the Patagonian forest

Abstract Invasion by nonnative woody species poses a major threat to the environment, biodiversity, and economies worldwide. Nahuel Huapi National Park in Argentina is a protected area for habitat conservation that harbors several invasive Pinaceae species, where Douglas-fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco] is one of the most aggressive and abundant conifer tree invaders. Management of invasions in protected areas must include efficient, easy to deploy, and cost-effective techniques, while reducing the impact on native ecosystems. Because the region has no control measures applied other than conventional felling, we analyzed the effectiveness of two systemic herbicides (glyphosate and aminopyralid + triclopyr) at two different concentrations, applied with the drill and fill method. We then quantified defoliation of P. menziesii trees 6, 12, and 24 mo after application and performed an economic cost analysis to determine profitability. For the application, the trees were grouped into diameter at breast height classes and randomly assigned to one of the four treatments. Herbicide doses were adjusted according to tree size. We found that glyphosate at high concentrations completely defoliated 33% of the trees after 6 mo and 87% after 12 and 24 mo. Glyphosate at low concentrations defoliated almost 30% of the trees after 24 mo, most of which were smaller trees. The aminopyralid + triclopyr treatment did not produce significant defoliation at any of the tested concentrations. When compared with conventional felling, the drill and fill method was found to reduce removal costs by 98%. We observe that differences in costs are mainly due to dead trees that remain standing, decompose slowly, and do not generate costs associated with their removal and debris management. Drill and fill is a suitable method for treating scattered trees in a native forest community, with reduced environmental consequences compared with other removal techniques currently applied within conservation areas of the Patagonian forest.

First photo evidence of Siberian Weasel Mustela sibirica Pallas, 1773 (Mammalia: Carnivora: Mustelidae) in Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal

Five photographs of Siberian Weasel were captured by camera traps in two locations at an elevation of 2,840-3,200 m. in Gaurishankar Conservation Area. The species was identified based on its uniform yellowish-brown coat, the presence of a black mask that surrounded its eyes and the white chin, which are key characteristics that distinguishes it from other weasel species. This is the first confirmation of the presence of Siberian Weasel in Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal. Based on present and previous confirmed records, a distribution map of the species has been updated for Nepal.

Enhancing ecological success in Yangtze River channel construction: A numerical modelling approach

AbstractChannel constructions significantly impact river hydrodynamics, subsequently influencing river ecosystems. To mitigate the negative influence of channel construction and protect fish habitat, it is essential to evaluate fish habitat suitability through the integration of hydrodynamic and habitat models. This study models channel constructions on both the left and right riverbanks to evaluate habitat suitability for Four Major Chinese Carps and the Chinese sturgeon. Initially, flow velocity, water depth and grain size are simulated, followed by an assessment of habitat conditions using the Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) for three distinct construction strategies. Results reveal that constructing channels on the left bank mitigates adverse effects on fish habitat, while constructions on the right bank and both riverbanks lead to habitat degradation. Long‐term effects on riverbed elevation and fish habitat suitability post‐construction were also investigated. Notably, the Four Major Chinese Carps consistently demonstrate greater suitability for the studied river, regardless of flow rate or construction strategies, in comparison to the Chinese sturgeon. These findings underscore diverse responses to channel construction, providing valuable insights for identifying critical habitat areas for endemic fish conservation. This research presents a robust framework for assessing fish ecology in river systems, offering support for conservation decision‐makers.

Demographic insights for the endangered Apennine yellow-bellied toad in the Pollino National Park (Southern Italy). A five-year Capture-Mark-Recapture study

Investigating population structure, parameters, and growth over time is vital for conserving endangered taxa like the Apennine yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata pachypus) in Italy. The Apennine yellow-bellied toad faces habitat loss or degradation, disease, and climate change threats. Our study delves into the population dynamics of this endemic amphibian by monitoring populations in two breeding sites within the Pollino National Park (Southern Italy) using a five-year Capture-Mark-Recapture (CMR) approach. With a particular emphasis on demographic parameters such as population size, detectability, survival, temporary emigration probability, and body condition index, the research aims to contribute to understanding population dynamics and inform conservation efforts. We used two CMR models to estimate these parameters: Jolly-Seber with POPAN parametrisation and Pollock's robust design with Huggins' estimator. Results showed variation in body size between males and females, challenging previous findings in south-central Italy. For both populations, demographic data indicate high annual adult survival, fidelity to the breeding areas, support for no movement, and minimal trap response. Abundance over the years reveals a slight decline in one site and a gradual increase in the other. The estimated maximum population size indicated ∼ 92 animals in one population and ∼ 70 in the other one. Despite the high conservation concern for the Apennine yellow-bellied toad, there remains a dearth of quantitative information on demographic aspects in Southern Italy. The findings underscore the importance of protected areas in biodiversity conservation and contribute to understanding the B. v. pachypus conservation status, suggesting that small, isolated populations may be vulnerable to unpredictable fluctuations, inbreeding depression, and extinction risks. Additionally, the research emphasises the importance of long-term CMR studies to gain insights into population dynamics and develop effective conservation strategies and management practices, particularly in the face of climate changes that may impact both the endemic taxon and its habitat.

The Mediating Role of Positive Emotion in the Nexus of Marketing Strategies and Sustainable Marine Tourism: Study on Coral Reef Conservation Area at Mengiat Beach, Bali

This study investigates the impact of relationship marketing and education-based marketing on sustainable marine tourism, utilizing positive emotion as a mediating factor. Through a quantitative approach and purposive random sampling with 100 respondents, the research underscores the significance of relationship marketing and education-based marketing in shaping positive emotion and its correlation with sustainable marine tourism. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using the Partial Least Square (PLS) method in Smart PLS Version 3.0. Relationship and education-based marketing emerge as critical influencers of positive emotion and contribute positively to sustainable marine tourism. Positive emotion is a crucial mediator, linking emotional experiences to advancing sustainable marine tourism. The study's implications for marketing management emphasize the pivotal role of relationship marketing in cultivating positive customer emotions and its subsequent influence on sustainable marine tourism. Marketing practitioners can leverage these insights by prioritizing personalized engagement strategies and loyalty programs, strengthening emotional connections between tourists and destinations. Integrating educational initiatives, such as partnerships with environmental organizations and awareness campaigns, is essential for promoting marine conservation and sustainable practices. The study emphasizes the necessity of diverse marketing approaches to evoke positive emotional responses, offering practical guidance for marketers to benefit marine conservation efforts and enhance the tourism experience.

Spatial differences in recruit density, survival, and size structure prevent population growth of stony coral assemblages in southeast Florida

The size structure of stony coral populations can reveal underlying demographic barriers to population growth or recovery. Recent declines in coral cover from acute disturbances are well documented, but few studies have assessed size structure and the demographic processes that determine population growth. Vital rates, such as recruitment and survival, vary spatially and temporally in response to environmental conditions, in turn influencing assemblage composition. The Southeast Florida Coral Reef Ecosystem Conservation Area (Coral ECA) is a high-latitude reef system offshore of a heavily urbanized coastline. Consecutive heat stress events, stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD), and Hurricane Irma caused significant declines in stony coral cover and density from 2014 to 2018. The recovery potential of stony coral assemblages is influenced by their composition, the size structure of the remnant populations, and population growth during inter-disturbance periods. To assess the viability of the remaining stony coral assemblages in the Coral ECA, we quantified variation in stony coral recruit density, abundance, size structure, and assemblage composition across depth and latitude at permanent sites over 3 years (2019–2022) when no disturbances occurred. We found spatial decoupling in recruit density, adult colony density, and cover that maintains a preponderance of small colonies and skewed size structure. At sites close to shore where recruit density was higher, there was limited evidence of survival and growth of recruits, while at sites where large colonies were sampled or cover was relatively high, there was limited recruitment. The majority (>75%) of recruits sampled were Siderastrea siderea, but size frequency distributions were positively skewed and the coefficient of variation was high, suggesting high recruit/juvenile colony mortality and little growth into larger size classes. Porites astreoides size structure was generally lognormal and mesokurtic, particularly closer to shore, suggesting a transition between size classes. Skewness decreased moving offshore in Montastraea cavernosa and S. siderea, suggesting a transition between size classes. Recruit and adult diversity also increased moving offshore, but recruits of most species were uncommon throughout the study area. We suggest that low recruitment and high mortality, particularly in small colonies and inshore, even during inter-disturbance periods, limit the population growth of stony coral assemblages in southeast Florida.

KERAPATAN DAN KELAS KEHADIRAN JENIS EHA (CASTANOPSIS BURUANA MIQ) DI BLOK LINDUNG TAHURA NIPA-NIPA KELURAHAN PUNGGALOBA KENDARI

The Tahura Nipa-Nipa nature conservation area located in the city of Kendari has a type of Eha that is susceptible to disturbance. The research aimed to determine the density level of the Eha (Castanopsis buruana Miq) species at tree, pole, sapling and seedling level growth; knowing the presence class in the community (presence) and knowing the distribution pattern. The observation sample used the plotted path method with a sampling intensity of 1% and an entire sample area of 0.96 ha. The sample consisted of 3 transects each containing 8 plots (0.04 ha per plot), so the total sample was 24 plots. Transects were placed systematically, the distance between transects was 100 m, and the distance between plots within transects was 20 m. The results showed that the Eha tree density level was 107.29 trees/ha, the pole level was 200 trees/ha, the sapling level was 233.33 trees/ha, and the seedling level was 13229.166 trees/ha. The presence of Eha in the community at the tree, pole and seedling level is in the "Always Present" class (81%-100%). Meanwhile, the stake level and presence in the community is in the "Sometimes There" class (21%-40%). The distribution pattern of Eha at the tree level is clustered, while at the pole, sapling and seedling levels it is a regular pattern.

A Smart, Data-Driven Approach to Qualify Additively Manufactured Steel Samples for Print-Parameter-Based Imperfections.

With additive manufacturing (AM) processes such as Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), components with complex shapes or with functional properties can be produced, with advantages in the areas of resource conservation, lightweight construction, and load-optimized production. However, proving component quality is a challenge because it is not possible to produce 100% defect-free components. In addition to this, statistically determined fluctuations in the wire quality, gas flow, and their interaction with process parameters result in a quality of the components that is not 100% reproducible. Complex testing procedures are therefore required to demonstrate the quality of the components, which are not cost-effective and lead to less efficiency. As part of the project "3DPrintFEM", a sound emission analysis is used to evaluate the quality of AM components. Within the scope of the project, an approach was being developed to determine the quality of an AM part dependent not necessarily on its geometry. Samples were produced from WAAM, which were later cut and milled to precision. To determine the frequencies, the samples were put through a resonant frequency test (RFM). The unwanted modes were then removed from the spectrum produced by the experiments by comparing it with FEM simulations. Later, defects were introduced in experimental samples in compliance with the ISO 5817 guidelines. In order to create a database of frequencies related to the degree of the sample defect, they were subjected to RFM. The database was further augmented through frequencies from simulations performed on samples with similar geometries, and, hence, a training set was generated for an algorithm. A machine-learning algorithm based on regression modelling was trained based on the database to sort samples according to the degree of flaws in them. The algorithm's detectability was evaluated using samples that had a known level of flaws which forms the test dataset. Based on the outcome, the algorithm will be integrated into an equipment developed in-house to monitor the quality of samples produced, thereby having an in-house quality assessment routine. The equipment shall be less expensive than conventional acoustic equipment, thus helping the industry cut costs when validating the quality of their components.

Illegal shooting of protected nongame birds along power lines coincides with places and times of peak legal recreational shooting

Abstract Illegal killing of protected nongame birds is pervasive and can be demographically relevant. In 2021 and 2022, we evaluated spatial and temporal patterns in illegal killing of birds along 69.7 km of power lines in the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area in Idaho, USA, to provide insight into potential drivers behind the activity and key information to manage this threat across the American west. The illegal shooting of 8 species of raptors and corvids we documented was clumped both temporally and spatially, as opposed to being randomly distributed across the year and landscape. We found 72 illegally shot birds, most killed during spring months (March to May), coincident with peak time periods of legal recreational shooting activity, and in places with high levels of recreational shooting. We also found evidence of targeted killing of raptors in the conservation area in areas not associated with recreational shooting. Given the numbers of nesting pairs of some local raptor species, this shooting is likely demographically relevant for some but not all local populations. Likewise, with the prevalence of recreational shooting across the American west, the inference we draw is broadly relevant beyond our Idaho study area. The insight our work provides can enable owners of power lines, law enforcement agencies, and resource managers to coordinate in outreach, regulatory, and law enforcement action to manage a threat that may have widespread impacts for some avian species.

Community-based Sustainable Ecotourism at Tangkahan Tourism Destination, Langkat Regency

Ecotourism is a sustainable tourism method that uses local ecosystems and community culture to preserve nature and generate benefits. Tangkahan, an ecotourism area in Indonesia, has a history of forest exploitation and illegal logging. The local community is working to make it a sustainable conservation area. This research will explain Community-Based Sustainable Ecotourism in Tangkahan Tourism Destination, Langkat Regency. This descriptive research uses a qualitative approach, in-depth interviews, FGDs, observations, and focus group discussions, and uses data analysis techniques as suggested. The results showed that the management of Tangkahan Ecotourism involved cooperating parties such as the North Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Centre, Gunung Leuser National Park Centre, Forest Management FMU, Conservation Response Unit, PT Perkebunan Nusantara II, Tourism Office, and two Tangkahan Tourism Area Villages namely Namo Sialang Village and Serdang Village. The Tangkahan Tourism Board manages the area, including marketing, guide services, and rescue efforts. However, land licensing issues, trust, and access difficulties hinder development. The development model should be open and community-based, integrating ecotourism development with other community activities. Critical programs include regulatory regulations, tourist facilities, infrastructure, human resources, cooperation, and collaboration with relevant parties.

Small but connected islands can maintain populations and genetic diversity under climate change

In response to the striking effects of environmental change, conservation strategies often include the identification of conservation areas that can effectively maintain vulnerable species. Consequently, identifying system‐specific conditions that maintain the demographic and genetic viability of species of conservation concern is essential. Connectivity plays a critical role in the persistence of populations. Islands have been model systems to understand connectivity and metapopulation processes and have emerged as particularly favorable targets for conservation. While islands can be isolated from mainland disturbances, it is unknown what degree of isolation is necessary to avoid unfavorable changes but remain sufficiently connected to maintain population viability. To test this question, we explored connectivity within the Apostle Islands, an archipelago of 22 islands within Lake Superior, by comparing historical and contemporary trends in ice bridge connectivity and by simulating the effect of reduced connectivity within this system. We developed a demographically informed individual‐based model to explicitly test the role of connectivity to influence the persistence and genetic diversity of American marten Martes americana, a forest carnivore at risk across its southern range boundary. We found that genetic diversity was resilient to moderate changes in ice cover, but a complete loss of connectivity resulted in rapid genetic erosion. Despite genetic erosion, populations persisted as long as nominal connectivity occurred between islands. Our work suggests that connectivity will decline, but martens would be resilient to moderate changes and, in the short term, the Apostle Islands can act as a refuge along this species' southern range boundary. Identifying thresholds in connectivity that maintain populations but allow for isolation from disturbance will be necessary to identify suitable areas for species conservation across space and time.

Long-term impact of wildfire on soil physical, chemical and biological properties within a pine forest

AbstractAnthropogenic fires pose a serious threat to many terrestrial ecosystems because they can cause loss of biodiversity and carbon stocks in the biosphere. Specifically, wildfires impacting natural conservation areas such as European Natura 2000 sites (N2K) are of particular concern. The main study objective was to evaluate the long-term effects of wildfires on the organic layer and some physical, chemical and biological properties of the underlying soil mineral layer, linked to soil quality. Here, we studied two coastal Mediterranean Aleppo pine stands within an N2K site differing for the fires’ years of occurrence, the time between fires (TBF) and the time since last fire (TSLF) throughout 24 years. Furthermore, in each stand, differences in fire frequency (FF) were considered by selecting three sites—double-fire, single-fire and control (unburnt). Our results show the absence of the O-layer in double-fire sites, indicating a loss of this organic carbon (if compared to control) pool of 204 g m−2 in R2F and 139 g m−2 in M2F. Despite this loss being offset by the Corg increase in soil mineral layer, the disappearance of O-layer may compromise the ecosystem services provided by soil. In each stand, long-term fire effects were evident at both single-fire and double-fire sites for some chemical as well as biological soil properties and depended on TSLF. Increased rates of nitrogen mineralization and nitrification were found at all burned sites, persisting up to 24 years post-fire. Soil quality indicators data highlighted the recovery handicap of the microbial community within the considered period. Since our outcomes showed wildfires enduring consequences, mainly relating to TSLF and FF, on different organic and mineral soil properties, we advocate employing prompt strategies to mitigate recurring fires.

The Long-Term Agroecosystem Research cropland common experiment at Northern Plains.

Cropland agriculture in the northern Great Plains is challenged by variable weather, agricultural intensification, and competing use for energy development. Innovative cropland practices that address these challenges are needed to ensure regional agriculture can sustainably meet future food, fuel, and fiber demand. In response to this need, the Northern Plains Long-Term Agroecosystem Research Network site established a cropland experiment in 2019 that contrasts prevailing and alternative practices at plot and field scales over a proposed 30-year time frame. The experimental site is located on the Area IV Soil Conservation Districts Cooperative Research Farm near Mandan, ND. Cropping practices for the first 6 years of the experiment were developed with input from stakeholders and include a 3-year crop rotation of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), corn (Zea mays L.), and soybean (Glycine max L.) with cover crops (alternative practice) and without (prevailing practice). The prevailing practice also involves the removal of crop residue, while a second alternative practice of perennial forages is included in the plot-scale experiment. Biophysical measurements are made at both spatial scales at frequencies aligned with approved methods for each agronomic and environmental metric. Findings from the first 6 years of the experiment will help identify tradeoffs associated with cover crop use and residue removal in dryland cropping systems. In the future, the experiment will adopt a knowledge co-production approach whereby researchers and stakeholders will work collaboratively to identify problems, implement research, and interpret results.

Assessing the influence of landscape conservation and protected areas on social wellbeing using random forest machine learning.

The urgency of interconnected social-ecological dilemmas such as rapid biodiversity loss, habitat loss and fragmentation, and the escalating climate crisis have led to increased calls for the protection of ecologically important areas of the planet. Protected areas (PA) are considered critical to address these dilemmas although growing divides in wellbeing can exacerbate conflict around PAs and undermine effectiveness. We investigate the influence of proximity to PAs on wellbeing outcomes. We develop a novel multi-dimensional index of wellbeing for households and across Africa and use Random Forest Machine Learning techniques to assess the importance score of households' proximity to protected areas on their wellbeing outcomes compared with the importance scores of an array of other social, environmental, and local and national governance factors. This study makes important contributions to the conservation literature, first by expanding the ways in which wellbeing is measured and operationalized, and second, by providing additional empirical support for recent evidence that proximity to PAs is an influential factor affecting observed wellbeing outcomes, albeit likely through different pathways than the current literature suggests.

A study of macroinvertebrate community structure and diversity in response to land use type in the Yiluo River Basin

Land use types have a significant impact on river ecosystems. The Yiluo River is the largest tributary below Xiaolangdi Reservoir in the middle reaches of the Yellow River, and is one of the important water conservation areas in the Yellow River Basin. Studying the ecological status of the Yiluo River under varied land use types in this basin is crucial for both ecological protection and the high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin. This study investigated the impacts of land use types on the macroinvertebrate community and functional structure in the Yiluo River Basin and introduced the concept of the land use health index (LUI). During the survey period, a total of 11,894 macroinvertebrates were collected, and 143 species were identified, belonging to 4 phyla, 7 orders, 22 families, and 75 families. The results showed that LUI had the most significant impact on macroinvertebrate community structure, with substrate type, dry plant weight, total phosphorus, turbidity, and attached algae biomass also playing significant roles in affecting macroinvertebrate communities. The species richness, the Shannon-Wiener index, and the Margalef richness index exhibited a nonlinear positive correlation with LUI of the sampling site, increasing as LUI enhancing and eventually reaching a plateau. Functional richness showed a linear and positive correlation with LUI, increasing with its enhancement, while functional evenness and functional divergence exhibited a nonlinear correlation with LUI. Functional evenness initially increased and then decreased with the enhancement of LUI, while functional divergence decreased with LUI enhancement. This study can provide a scientific reference for river ecological management under various land use scenarios.The Yiluo River is the largest tributary below Xiaolangdi Reservoir in the middle reaches of the Yellow River, and is one of the important water conservation areas in the Yellow River Basin. Studying the ecological status of the Yiluo River under varied land use types in this basin is crucial for both ecological protection and the high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin. This study investigated the impacts of land use types on the macroinvertebrate community and functional structure in the Yiluo River Basin and introduced the concept of the land use health index (LUI). During the survey period, a total of 11,894 macroinvertebrates were collected, and 143 species were identified, belonging to 4 phyla, 7 orders, 22 families, and 75 families. The results showed that LUI had the most significant impact on macroinvertebrate community structure, with substrate type, dry plant weight, total phosphorus, turbidity, and attached algae biomass also playing significant roles in affecting macroinvertebrate communities. The species richness, the Shannon-Wiener index, and the Margalef richness index exhibited a nonlinear positive correlation with LUI of the sampling site, increasing as LUI enhancing and eventually reaching a plateau. Functional richness showed a linear and positive correlation with LUI, increasing with its enhancement, while functional evenness and functional divergence exhibited a nonlinear correlation with LUI. Functional evenness initially increased and then decreased with the enhancement of LUI, while functional divergence decreased with LUI enhancement. This study can provide a scientific reference for river ecological management under various land use scenarios.

Establishing a protected area network in Xinlong with other effective area-based conservation measures.

Protected areas (PAs) are pivotal to biodiversity conservation, yet their efficacy is compromised by insufficient funding and management. So-called other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) present a paradigm shift and address PA limitations. Such measures can expand conservation areas, enhance connectivity, and improve the existing system. To assess the conservation status of biodiversity in Tibetan cultural areas in China, we investigated the spatial distribution of wildlife vulnerable to human disturbance (large- and medium-sized mammals and terrestrial birds) in Xinlong, a traditional Tibetan cultural area. In particular, we compared a PA (Xionglongxi Nature Reserve) and OECMs targeting species conservation. We also investigated the relationship of wildlife with human temporal and spatial activities. The OECMs complemented areas not covered by PA, especially in rich understory biodiversity regions. More species in OECMs tolerated human presence than species in the PA. Existing biodiversity reserves failed to cover areas of high conservation value in Tibet and offered limited protection capacity. Expanding PAs and identifying OECMs improved Xinlong's system by covering most biodiversity hotspots. Building on the tradition of wildlife conservation in Tibet, harnessing OECMs may be an effective means of augmenting biodiversity conservation capacity. We recommend further evaluation of OECMs effectiveness and coverage in Tibetan area as a way to enhance the current PA system.