Conservation Issues Research Articles

Plant diversity conservation issues and challenges: A review

Significant conceptual changes have occurred over the past years in plant conservation, with major methodological advances incorporating modern techniques, technology, and disciplines. The global, national, and regional loss of biodiversity is a multifaceted issue affecting social, economic, organizational, political, scientific, and communicational scenarios. The identification of root causes is key to preventing biodiversity loss. India's diverse ecosystem supports various needs, including food, medicine, clothing, and shelter. Spatial biodiversity assessment is important for prioritizing and monitoring mechanisms and efforts in the context of land use, land cover change, unprecedented overexploitation, uncontrolled pollution, and alien species invasion. Odisha, an eastern Indian state, is rich in natural resources, with tropical moist, and dry deciduous forests covering remote areas of many districts, north-south-western hills, plateaus, and isolated pockets. Conservation efforts have expanded with protected areas, Red Lists, ex-situ facilities, wild plant accessions, and some developed species recovery programs. The conservation community is concerned about how to respond to the continuously depleting bioresources. Conservation prioritization focuses on protecting socioeconomically, medicinally, and environmentally significant species and living communities, regions of high species richness and endemism, and active functional ecosystems. The present review explores how to address sustainable biodiversity conservation practices and natural ecosystems aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals No. 13 and 15.

New and interesting records of rare caddisflies (Trichoptera, Insecta) from Slovakia with comments on their ecology and conservation status

The distribution and diversity of insects are crucial conservation issues. The order Trichoptera is comprised of numerous endangered species, but the rarity of some makes it challenging to determine their conservation priority. In recent decades, data based on caddisfly larvae have become more frequent in limnological research in Slovakia. Our research, focusing mainly on adult caddisflies, has led to more reliable and accurate identification of many species that cannot be identified with certainty in the larval stage.We combined several entomological methods, including sweeping, Malaise traps, and UV light attraction, to increase the likelihood of catching rare species. The text lists and discusses the discoveries of caddisfly species that are particularly important for faunistics or biodiversity in Slovakia, as well as in the Central European context. Enoicyla reichenbachii (Kolenati, 1848), Limnephilus incisus Curtis, 1834, Ptilocolepus granulatus (Pictet, 1834) and Oecetis testacea (Curtis, 1834) were recorded for the first time in Slovakia. The rare species Hagenella clathrata (Kolenati, 1848) and Adicella balcanica Botosaneanu and Novák, 1965, previously found in Slovakia, were also recorded. Additionally, a new locality of Adicella syriaca Ulmer, 1907 indicates a further northward shift of this Mediterranean species. We further discussed the faunistically important records of Beraeamyia hrabei Mayer, 1937, Allotrichia pallicornis (Eaton, 1873), Ceraclea riparia (Albarda, 1874), Grammotaulius nitidus (Müller, 1764) and Limnephilus fuscicornis Rambur, 1842 from Slovakia. The conservation status of each species is proposed and discussed on the basis of our faunistic records, in accordance with the forthcoming update of the Slovak Red Book.

Sperm cryotolerance in mature male parr of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L. 1758): Effects of dietary lipid content and n-3 essential fatty acids composition

The cryoresistance of sperm is a significant concern issue in conservation and aquaculture. The nutrition of broodstock fish affects the quality of gametes. This study aimed to assess the impact of four diets on the quality of fresh and cryopreserved sperm of sexually mature salmon parr during spermatogenesis. Two dietary factors were modulated: lipid intake (12% and 20%) and n-3 essential fatty acid composition (DHA and ALA). No significant difference in parr growth rate or sperm concentration following the feeding period was observed. Viability and mitochondrial membrane potential of fresh sperm were also unaffected. However, fresh sperm motility was significantly higher in fish fed the 20% ALA diet compared to those fed the 12% DHA diet (p = 0.001). Cryopreservation reduced viability, motility, curvilinear velocity (VCL), and average path velocity (VAP), and increased linearity, regardless of the diet (p < 0.01). However, cryopreserved spermatozoa from parr fed diets enriched with DHA and containing 20% lipids showed a higher percentage of viability compared to spermatozoa from fish fed diets containing 12% lipids (p = 0.044). The study found that mitochondrial membrane potential, motility, VCL, and VAP was higher and that linearity was lower in salmon fed diets with higher levels of lipid and plant-based n-3 fatty acids compared to those fed 12% lipid diets, regardless of the n-3 fatty acid composition. This suggests that the higher levels of lipid and plant-based n-3 fatty acids provided greater resistance of sperm to damage by cryopreservation.

Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris borealis): Exploring Normal Head Anatomy through Cross-Sectional Anatomy, Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

Cory's shearwater, or Calonectris borealis, stands out as a symbolic figure in the world of seabirds, playing a crucial role in marine ecosystems globally. Belonging to the Procellariidae family, it is singularized by its imposing wingspan and intricate migration patterns connecting it to various regions from the North Atlantic to the Pacific. Its role in the marine food chain, specialized diet and adaptation for nesting in the Canary Archipelago underscore its ecological importance. However, Cory's shearwater also faces important threats, such as the invasion of foreign species, highlighting the need for its conservation. Among the conservation issues, studies on its biology, the main threats it faces and its normal anatomy are essential to preserve marine biodiversity. Additionally, a variety of imaging techniques, such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance, facilitates the understanding of the bird's neuroanatomy and opens future research possibilities in comparative neuroscience. Moreover, this approach proves particularly relevant given the increasing attention these seabirds receive in environments such as zoos, rehabilitation centers and their natural habitat, where veterinarians play a crucial role in their care and well-being.

Migration of humans fleeing conflict in the Lake Chad region may increase pressures on natural resources in Lake Fitri (Chad): A case study on waterbirds

Abstract Sustainable harvest of wildlife is a major food security and conservation issue. In Africa, where wildlife is harvested mainly for subsistence, this remains a challenge. In this study, using waterbirds as model for natural resources, we assessed the sustainability of harvest through fishing bycatch on Lake Fitri (Chad). We estimated the abundance of 24 target taxa through aerial distance sampling over four consecutive years (2018–2021) and in parallel estimated the number of birds harvested through interviews of a sample of 105 out of approximately 5500 fishermen. By modelling their potential excess growth, we found a high risk of overexploitation for four species, including the world‐threatened Black Crowned Crane Balearica pavonina, likely due to an influx of fishermen to Lake Fitri fleeing the Boko Haram security crisis. Synthesis and applications: This work is likely the first quantitative approach of bird harvest sustainability in Africa. It should contribute to fill a methodological and an information gap in the strategic planification of several multilateral environmental agreements like the African‐Eurasian Waterbird Agreement and the Ramsar Convention. In particular, this work could help implementing adaptive management of natural resources (including birds) in Ramsar site management plans. African wetlands such as Lake Fitri may not be able to provide enough natural resources in the medium term for movements of displaced civilians forced by armed conflict into such biodiversity strongholds.

Seabird bycatch in European waters

AbstractThe incidental capture (bycatch) of seabirds is a global conservation issue and a top threat to European species that demands urgent conservation and management action. Here, we present the first European review of seabird bycatch data, considering all fishing gears and data collection methods available in the region. We calculate seabird bycatch numbers per species, family, country and European marine region and assess the reliability of the data available. The cumulative bycatch estimate extracted from this review suggests that about 195,000 seabirds (ranging from around 130,000 to 380,000) are bycaught in European waters annually. The most affected seabird species is the Common Guillemot Uria aalge with over 31,000 birds killed per year. The marine region with the highest bycatch estimate is the Northeast Atlantic (over 115,000 seabirds year−1). Gillnet fisheries are responsible for the highest bycatch levels, with over 95,000 seabirds year−1, followed by longline fisheries. The families most affected by bycatch are Anatidae and Alcidae. These numbers are likely an underestimation since we were unable to find bycatch estimates, or to extrapolate estimates from available bycatch data for 12 (out of 34) European coastal states. Our assessment also identified significant data gaps in key areas such as Gran Sol (in the north‐east Atlantic), the central and Eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Combining systematic data collection with immediate implementation of mitigation measures will be crucial to fill in knowledge gaps, reduce current mortality levels and meet international conservation commitments such as those of the European Union and the Convention on Migratory Species.

Экологический аспект устойчивого развития высокогорных регионов в условиях формирования инновационной экономики

Sustainable development of high-mountain regions is one of the key tasks of the modern world in the context of growing environmental problems and the need to transition to an innovative economy. High-mountain regions, such as the territories of the North Caucasus Federal District (NCFD), are characterized by unique natural conditions, but at the same time they face many environmental challenges associated with active economic activity, climate change and anthropogenic impact. These territories are particularly vulnerable to environmental risks, which requires the development of integrated approaches for their sustainable development. The formation of an innovative economy provides new opportunities for achieving environmental sustainability in high-mountain regions. Innovative technologies and environmentally friendly approaches to production can help reduce the negative impact on the environment, improve the quality of life of the local population and increase the competitiveness of the region. However, the transition to such a development model requires a comprehensive assessment of environmental aspects, which will take into account the specifics of natural conditions, socio-economic factors and the characteristics of the economic activity of these territories. The objective of the study is to analyze current environmental problems of mountainous territories and improve initiatives taken to ensure environmental safety in the context of transition to an economy of advanced scientific and technological development. Research methods. The study was conducted on the basis of dialectical cognition, system and comparative approaches, forecasting, classification, induction and deduction, the method of processing statistical and empirical data. Research results: 1) the state of the territories of the North Caucasus Federal District was analyzed from the point of view of environmental safety; 2) world experience was studied using the example of innovation-oriented countries regarding issues of environmental conservation in the process of increasing production capacities; 3) an analysis of the tools used by government bodies was carried out in order to maintain consensus between the ongoing environmental and innovation policies; 4) innovative ways to solve the problem of ensuring environmental safety in the studied mountainous regions of the country are presented. Conclusion. The study provided a comprehensive analysis of the environmental aspects of sustainable development of the highland regions of the North Caucasus Federal District (NCFD) in the context of the formation of an innovative economy. It was revealed that the environmental situation in most regions of the North Caucasus Federal District remains unfavorable, despite significant investments in improving infrastructure and modernizing production. The main problems are air and water pollution, degradation of agricultural land, accumulation of waste and deterioration of forests. High emissions of pollutants from mobile and stationary sources, discharge of contaminated wastewater and growth in the volume of municipal solid waste have a negative impact on the environmental situation. As a result, the quality of life of the population deteriorates, health risks increase, and the productivity of agricultural land decreases, which has a negative impact on the economy of the region. To solve these problems, it is necessary to implement a comprehensive approach, including the introduction of innovative technologies in industry and agriculture, improving the waste management system, developing environmental monitoring and modernizing production. An important role should be played by government support measures aimed at stimulating environmentally oriented investments and reducing the man-made burden on the environment. China, which is actively developing “green” investments and reducing the negative impact of industrial enterprises, can serve as an example of a successful environmental policy. China’s experience can be useful for Russia in developing long-term environmental safety strategies. Thus, to ensure sustainable development of high-mountain regions in the context of an innovative economy, it is necessary to form a comprehensive system of measures aimed at protecting the environment, improving public health and increasing the competitiveness of the region.

Measuring people’s attitude towards conservation of Leopard Panthera pardus (Mammalia: Carnivora) in the foothills of Himalayan region

Measuring people’s attitudes about the large carnivores involved in human-wildlife interface, also termed conflict or interaction, is an essential aspect of developing effective conservation and management planning for human-carnivore coexistence. Human-leopard (Panthera pardus) interaction is widespread and one of the most pressing conservation issues within the global range of leopards. However, there is a scarcity of information on local people’s opinions and attitudes concerning carnivores in human-dominated areas. Our current study focused on understanding the human dimensions of human-leopard interactions in the multi-purpose landscape situated in the foothills of Shiwalik Himalaya, Uttarakhand, India. Between January and May 2022, we conducted a semi-structured questionnaire survey (N = 266) to understand how socio-demographic factors impact the attitudes of local people toward leopard conservation in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, Uttarakhand, India. Overall, 61.7% of respondents had positive attitudes toward leopards and supported leopard conservation, primarily attributed to the aesthetic value of leopards. Using ordinal logistic regression models, we found that male respondents and individuals with higher education had a positive attitude towards leopard conservation. The majority of respondents who conveyed positive attitudes towards leopard conservation belonged to the more educated socio-demographic groups. As a follow-up, specific studies need to be conducted on local people’s attitude about compensation or compassionate payments, often disbursed as compassionate payments, the response of the forest department to prevailing conflict, and current awareness programs. These can be crucial factors towards shaping the attitude of local respondents and promote human-leopard coexistence.

Міжнародний досвід охорони мікобіоти

The article examines the issue of the protection of fungal biodiversity using world experience. In chronological order, the stages of the creation of international environmental protection organizations, the adoption of conventions of a non-political nature, the texts and appendices to these documents on the subject of species biodiversity were analyzed. Lists of species in the IUCN Red List were studied. It was revealed that since 1948, when the IUCN was established, 26 different kinds of International Conventions, documents and initiatives have been proclaimed/adopted. Among these documents, 8 did not address the issue of biodiversity conservation or touched on this issue indirectly, only indirectly, 18 conventions and initiatives directly related to the protection of biodiversity. Analyzing the texts of these documents, the questions to which they are devoted, and their appendices, we found that specific information about mushrooms, i.e. with an indication of the species or genus, is available only in two documents: the International Red List of Mushrooms (625 species) and the IUCN Red List (811 species). Mushrooms are not mentioned as objects of protection in any Convention. The information about fungi that needs to be preserved is younger, compared to this information about plants and animals. Therefore, it is necessary to further consider the species composition of mushrooms and assess the state of their populations in order to include endangered species in the Red Lists of the national and international levels.

Specific Issues of Conservation and Restoration of Libya Mosques (7th Century – 1815)

The article traces the genesis of the simple Arabic hypostyle mosque to the centrally-planned mosque of the Ottoman type. It is argued that the architectural development of plan types and volume-compositional characteristics did not depend on political processes and several rulers, but rather on those changes that took place in the traditions of the Islamic school of architecture. Three main periods of mosque architecture with sub-periods are defined: the early period of the introduction of Islam (641–749), the middle period (750–1550), and the late period (1551–1911). Each of the periods was characterized by noticeable changes in planning, design, structural schemes, and decoration.

A consistent methodology to transport a passive scalar with the geometric Volume-of-Fluid method isoAdvector

This paper presents a new methodology allowing the discretisation of phase specific transport equations within the Volume-of-Fluid interface capturing method framework. The method uses a sharp interface algorithm to compute the transport of species concentration. The interface reconstruction and advection is provided by the geometric advection scheme isoAdvector[1] implemented in the OpenFOAM® library. When discretising the transport equation for species, lack of consistency with the free surface advection scheme can lead to numerical errors, causing conservation or boundedness issues. This work addresses the issue of consistency in convective transport of species and is divided in two parts. First, a new interpolation procedure is used to compute face values from cell-centered values. Then, the diffusive operator of the transport equation is corrected. Finally, a set of test cases are presented to validate the transport equation's consistency with the free surface advection. Species transport across the interface is not part of the scope of this article, however, this methodology can further be used to study mass transfer at the gas-liquid interface using additional mass source terms that are not discussed here.

Post-release survival of Whiteleg skate (Amblyraja taaf) caught as bycatch on demersal longlines in deep waters of the Southern Ocean (Crozet Archipelago)

Abstract Whiteleg skate (Amblyraja taaf) is a bycatch species commonly discarded in demersal longline fisheries targeting Patagonian toothfish around the Crozet archipelago (Southern Ocean). While there are global conservation issues on elasmobranchs, the post-release survival of this deep-sea species remains unknown. This study is the first tagging programme conducted on Whiteleg skates to investigate their fate after being released at sea. Almost 3000 skates were captured, double-tagged with conventional tags and released between 2020 and 2022 to assess survival using capture–mark–recapture (CMR) models. Our primary result was an estimated annual apparent survival rate higher than 92% for skates released in good condition (with 185 skates recaptured after up to 944 days at liberty). Low detection rate highlighted methodological challenges for CMR models. However, skate size and depth of capture had an effect on apparent survival probability with smaller individuals having lower values (&amp;lt;65 cm; 0.84 ± 0.04) as well as skates caught at shallower depths (&amp;lt;1200 m; 0.83 ± 0.04). Overall, this study suggests that the mandated release of skates in good condition is effective to limit fishing impact on skates in this fishery. To further limit this impact, we recommended changes in fishing practices (hauling speed and soak time).

Artificial refuges did not increase small mammal abundance after fire

AbstractThe interacting threats of invasive predators and altered fire regimes are key conservation issues for many native species globally. Artificial refuges have been proposed as a potential conservation tool to provide prey species with protection from invasive predators after fire, but we do not yet know whether they improve animal survival. To address this knowledge gap, we experimentally tested how small mammal abundance and species richness were influenced by the provision of artificial refuges after prescribed burns. We surveyed small mammals across five unburnt sites, seven burnt sites with artificial refuges, and eight burnt control sites following two prescribed fires in southeastern Australia. There were negative and neutral responses of small mammals to the burns, and relative abundance was positively correlated with structurally complex vegetation. Artificial refuges had no impact on abundance or species richness, irrespective of burn coverage. These findings suggest that this artificial refuge design may not be an effective tool for improving small mammal population persistence postfire, and as such we should not yet scale up their application. However, given the inherent context‐dependency of field experiments involving fire, which include difficult‐to‐control variables such as fire severity, predator activity, and population dynamics, we encourage researchers to undertake further experiments with artificial refuges in fire‐affected areas, including after severe wildfires when less vegetation cover remains. Such studies will help to build our understanding of their utility as a conservation tool across different ecosystems and fire types.

Facilitated introgression from domestic goat into Alpine ibex at immune loci.

Hybridization can result in the transfer of adaptive genetic material from one species to another, known as adaptive introgression. Bottlenecked (and hence genetically depleted) species are expected to be particularly receptive to adaptive introgression, since introgression can introduce new or previously lost adaptive genetic variation. The Alpine ibex (Capra ibex), which recently recovered from near extinction, is known to hybridize with the domestic goat (Capra aegagrus hircus), and signals of introgression previously found at the major histocompatibility complex were suggested to potentially be adaptive. Here, we combine two ancient whole genomes of Alpine ibex with 29 modern Alpine ibex genomes and 31 genomes representing six related Capra species to investigate the genome-wide patterns of introgression and confirm the potential relevance of immune loci. We identified low rates of admixture in modern Alpine ibex through various F statistics and screening for putative introgressed tracts. Further results based on demographic modelling were consistent with introgression to have occurred during the last 300 years, coinciding with the known species bottleneck, and that in each generation, 1-2 out of 100 Alpine ibex had a domestic goat parent. The putatively introgressed haplotypes were enriched at immune-related genes, where the adaptive value of alternative alleles may give individuals with otherwise depleted genetic diversity a selective advantage. While interbreeding with domestic species is a prevalent issue in species conservation, in this specific case, it resulted in putative adaptive introgression. Our findings highlight the complex interplay between hybridization, adaptive evolution, and the potential risks and benefits associated with anthropogenic influences on wild species.

Experimental study on performance and compressor characteristics of transcritical CO2 heat pump system

The accelerated advancement of the economy has led to a heightened focus on the issue of energy conservation and reduced consumption within heat pump systems. An experimental investigation was conducted to analyze the impact of discharge pressure and outlet water temperature on the performance of the transcritical CO2 single-stage heat pump system and vapor injection heat pump system. The experimental results show that the heating capacity first increases and then tends to be constant or even slightly decreases with the increase of discharge pressure in single-stage heat pump system. When subjected to the same operating conditions, the coefficient of performance of vapor injection heat pump system exceeds that of single-stage heat pump system. Compared with single-stage heat pump system, the performance coefficient of vapor injection heat pump system has increased by an average of 6.21% and the heating capacity has increased by an average of 9.54%. Additionally, the volumetric efficiency of the compressor substantially decreases when producing high-temperature hot water. Semi-empirical models for evaluating the compressor performance in both single-stage heat pump system and vapor injection pump system are established through the parameterization of the volumetric efficiency with respect to the pressure ratio and compressor speed. These models effectively forecast compressor performance.

Traditional harvesting practices employed for freshwater turtles by the indigenous communities along Shilabati River, West Bengal, India

A survey was conducted through semi-structured interviews, involving 38 local fishermen of three villages in the Gangani region along Shilabati River in West Bengal, India. The survey revealed that three threatened species of turtles—Nilssonia gangetica, Nilssonia hurum, and Lissemys punctata—were clandestinely harvested by the riverine communities. These species are also being documented for the first time from this area, popularly called Jangal Mahal. N. gangetica was the most commonly harvested species, followed by L. punctata and N. hurum, mostly for consumption, local sale, and as traditional medicine. The most frequently used method for capturing turtles was the ‘multiple hook bait’; exclusively practiced by adult males of the fisher community, usually belonging to the age group 21–40 years, between February and June. The study indicated that the respondents knew that harvesting of turtles was clandestine, yet they continued to do so as their traditional right, as they believed minor catches will not harm local turtle populations. It is assumed that N. hurum, which is an endangered species, is already rare and on the brink of local extinction, whereas other two species are coping with the harvest in the specialized riparian habitat and adjacent ponds. In this study the harvesting of threatened turtle species was ardently associated with the socio-cultural customs rather than an economic compulsion but to check rising threat to these species, the uncontrolled harvest needs to be addressed urgently as a high priority conservation issue. This requires further explorations on the ecology of turtles, initiatives by enforcement agencies, and utilizing the inherent knowledge of indigenous people.

Rapid and complete prediction of alizarin in solution by combining experimental data with computational methods

In the field of cultural heritage, understanding the nature of pigments and dyes is of great importance for conservation issues. Among the many natural dyes used in paintings or textiles, madder was one of the most important sources of red color at the time and was present in a wide variety of objects. However, due to extraction challenges, impurities, and high costs, a lot of information are not easily available. In this publication we designed a computational protocol able to reproduce the spectroscopic properties of two dyes, alizarin and alizarin red S. This framework allows us to compute both Ultraviolet–Visible absorption spectra and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) with good accuracy as well as reproduce with precision the CIELAB color. We have also explored different types of interactions that impact these properties, notably the solvation effect. We found that microsolvation is sufficient to reproduce the experimental measurements made in water. The high accuracy of the computation method makes this technique particularly promising for a non-destructive study of dyes on works of art and the preservation of cultural heritage.

Human-Induced Range Expansions Result in a Recent Hybrid Zone between Sister Species of Ducks.

Landscapes are consistently under pressure from human-induced ecological change, often resulting in shifting species distributions. For some species, changing the geographical breadth of their niche space results in matching range shifts to regions other than those in which they are formally found. In this study, we employ a population genomics approach to assess potential conservation issues arising from purported range expansions into the south Texas Brush Country of two sister species of ducks: mottled (Anas fulvigula) and Mexican (Anas diazi) ducks. Specifically, despite being non-migratory, both species are increasingly being recorded outside their formal ranges, with the northeastward and westward expansions of Mexican and mottled ducks, respectively, perhaps resulting in secondary contact today. We assessed genetic ancestry using thousands of autosomal loci across the ranges of both species, as well as sampled Mexican- and mottled-like ducks from across overlapping regions of south Texas. First, we confirm that both species are indeed expanding their ranges, with genetically pure Western Gulf Coast mottled ducks confirmed as far west as La Salle county, Texas, while Mexican ducks recorded across Texas counties near the USA-Mexico border. Importantly, the first confirmed Mexican × mottled duck hybrids were found in between these regions, which likely represents a recently established contact zone that is, on average, ~100 km wide. We posit that climate- and land use-associated changes, including coastal habitat degradation coupled with increases in artificial habitats in the interior regions of Texas, are facilitating these range expansions. Consequently, continued monitoring of this recent contact event can serve to understand species' responses in the Anthropocene, but it can also be used to revise operational survey areas for mottled ducks.

Effective ecological monitoring using passive acoustic sensors: Recommendations for conservation practitioners

AbstractPassive acoustic recorders have emerged as powerful tools for ecological monitoring. However, effective monitoring is not simply an act of recording sounds. To have meaning for conservation and management, acoustic monitoring needs to be properly planned and analyzed to yield high quality information. Here, we provide a set of considerations for the design of an effective acoustic monitoring program. We argue that such a program, has the following attributes: (1) has established appropriate partnerships with landowners, Traditional Owners, researchers, or other relevant stakeholders, (2) is based on clear objectives and questions, (3) is explicit in its target sound signals, (4) has considered in‐field sensor placement for a range of factors, including experimental design, statistical power, background noise, and potential impacts on human privacy and animal disturbance, (5) has a justified recording schedule and periodicity, (6) has methods to process sound data in line with objectives, and (7) has protocols for permanent data storage and access. Acoustic monitoring is increasingly used in large‐scale programs and will be important in addressing global biodiversity targets and new biodiversity markets. It is critical that new monitoring programs are designed to effectively and efficiently capture data that address pertinent and emerging issues in conservation.

Conflict Governance between Protected Areas and Surrounding Communities: Willingness and Behaviors of Communities—Empirical Evidence from Tanzania

Under the dual pressures of climate change and human activities, the restrictions imposed by conservation policies, along with the increasing overlap between wildlife protected areas (PAs) and community living areas, have intensified the contradictions and conflicts between PAs and surrounding communities. Effective governance of such conflicts is particularly crucial to reconciling the contradictions between conservation and development. This study takes the Mikumi–Selous areas in Tanzania, Africa, as a case study. Through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, it explores the current state of conflicts between PAs and communities in the study area and summarizes conflict governance measures. Moreover, this research focuses on identifying various factors that influence the conservation willingness and action of community residents, further validating the relationships between residents’ household characteristics, conservation costs and benefits, conservation cognition, willingness, and behaviors through empirical analysis methods. The results indicate that residents’ conservation cognition significantly positively impacts their conservation willingness and behaviors, while conservation willingness also positively affects their conservation behaviors. Additionally, it was found that conservation costs inhibit residents’ conservation willingness and behaviors. This study primarily explores, from a community governance perspective, the participation willingness and behaviors of core stakeholders in conflict governance, emphasizing the critical role of community involvement in achieving biodiversity conservation and coordinated community development and providing a new perspective for alleviating conservation and development issues.