Field Observations Research Articles

How does the newly-formed drainage divide migrate after a river capture event?

Tectonic and climatic perturbations can drive drainage adjustment. A river capture event is usually a landmark shift in drainage evolution, which significantly changes the river network topology. Although these events can be identified through field observations and provenance analysis, reconstructing this evolution and pinpointing the capture timing remain challenging. Here, we provide a new way of determining capture timing via drainage divides, based on theory, numerical simulations, and two natural cases. Our theoretical studies show that the steady-state elevation of the captor and beheaded rivers will decrease and increase following a capture event, respectively. The newly-formed drainage divide that emerged between the beheaded river and capture point will have large cross-divide differences in steady-state elevation and erosion rate and thus migrates towards the beheaded-river side until reaching a new steady state (no cross-divide difference in steady-state elevation). Numerical simulations reproduce the characteristic phenomena of drainage-divide migration following capture events. We find that (1) the migration of newly-formed drainage divides after capture events may last for tens of millions of years, with the migration rate decreasing exponentially over time; (2) a larger captured area, higher uplift rate, or lower erosion coefficient may cause higher migration rate of the newly-formed drainage divide in the other same conditions. These insights from theoretical analysis and numerical simulations are further applied to the Dadu-Anning and Yarlung-Yigong capture events in the southeastern Tibet. We predict that the present Dadu-Anning drainage divide would further migrate ∼94–123 km southward to reach a steady state in tens of millions of years. The Yarlung-Yigong capture event occurred earlier, in the early-middle Cenozoic, because the newly-formed drainage divide has already reached a steady state.

Identifying the pollution sources of River Yamuna through field observations and participatory approach

Identifying the pollution sources of River Yamuna through field observations and participatory approach

Assessment of runoff generation capacity and total runoff contribution for different landscapes in alpine and permafrost watershed

Alpine vegetation, cold deserts, and glacial landscapes significantly impact runoff generation and convergence in cold and alpine regions. The presence of existing mountain permafrost complicates these impacts further. To better understand the specific regulation of runoff by alpine landscapes, we analyzed the spatiotemporal capacity for runoff generation and the contributions of water from different landscape types within a typical alpine permafrost watershed: the upper reaches of the Shule River (USR) basin in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The analysis was informed by both field observations and simulations using the VIC model, which incorporated a new glacier module. We identified that glaciers, alpine meadows, cold deserts, and barren landscape zones as the four major runoff generation regions, collectively accounting for approximately 95 % of the USR runoff. The runoff depth in each landscape zone was calculated to express its “runoff generation capacity,” with an order of: glacier > cold desert > barren > alpine grassland > alpine meadow > shrub > swamp meadow. The alpine regions above 4000 m in altitude are the primary runoff generation areas, and the “runoff generation capacity” gradually decreases from high to low altitudes in the alpine basin. Due to seasonal variations in rainfall distribution, glacier melting, and permafrost thawing-freezing, the dominant landscape types contributing to runoff varied monthly. The simulated results indicate that permafrost plays an important role in runoff generation. Although permafrost degradation had a slight impact on the annual total runoff generated from each landscape zone (not taking into account of ground ice), seasonal runoff generated in each landscape exhibited significant changes in response to permafrost thawing. After permafrost completely thawed in each landscape zone, generated flood flow decreased, while low flow conversely increased, implying an enhanced water retention capacity of alpine landscapes following permafrost degradation. Additionally, the responses of runoff to permafrost changes varied across different alpine landscapes. These findings enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying runoff generation and convergence in cold and alpine watersheds of the Northern Hemisphere.

Paleoenvironmental and sea level changes across the Paleocene-lower Eocene interval at the central and southwestern Sinai, Egypt

Detailed stratigraphic studies of the Paleocene-lower Eocene interval were conducted on four stratigraphic successions (Sudr-Alhitan, Thamad, Abu-Qada, and Nukhul) in central and southwestern Sinai. These sections are arranged along a North-South direction as: Sudr-Alhitan, Thamad, Abu-Qada, and Nukhul. The biostratigraphic framework was achieved by integrating data of calcareous nannofossils and planktonic foraminifera. The studied area experienced two major tectonic events, most likely related to the Syrian Arc System (SAS), which led to two distinct hiatuses of significant magnitude, evidenced from integrated biostratigraphic analysis and thorough field observations. Benthic foraminifera assemblages suggest a deposition in outer neritic to upper bathyal setting for investigated sites, except for the Tarawan and Thebes formations in Abu-Qada and Sudr-Alhitan sections, which were deposited in middle-outer neritic and outer neritic settings, respectively. Benthic foraminiferal indices indicate an oligo-mesotrophic environment associated with oxic/suboxic conditions at the bottom of the seawater for the studied interval. Low oxygen levels and mesotrophic conditions were seen to mark the Paleocene Eocene Thermal Maximum event, as evidenced by the organic-rich laminated sediment, low benthic foraminiferal indices, and the occurrence of agglutinated taxa Repmanina charoides and Ammobaculites spp., which reflects a major change in food supply. The obtained sequence stratigraphic framework shows that the depositional record of the studied area is significantly influenced by both the regional tectonics and eustatic sea level.

Field Data and Observations of Damaged Buildings 10 Weeks after the February 2023 Earthquake Sequence in Türkiye

Field Data and Observations of Damaged Buildings 10 Weeks after the February 2023 Earthquake Sequence in Türkiye

Bayesian inverse analysis with field observation for slope failure mechanism and reliability assessment under rainfall accounting for nonstationary characteristics of soil properties

Bayesian inverse analysis with field observation for slope failure mechanism and reliability assessment under rainfall accounting for nonstationary characteristics of soil properties

Rapid karstification process with evaporite-driven sinkholes in Southern Kohat Basin, NW Pakistan

Sinkholes are small karstic features in soluble rocks that play an essential role in karstification and cause severe environmental hazards. The Karak region of the Himalaya foothills showcases one of the best exposures of karstification landforms, given their highly soluble nature and salt dissolution activities. The well-developed sinkholes are unique worldwide, yet have not been investigated. Here, we apply Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), resistivity profiles, and field observations to study the karstification process in this region. InSAR detects numerous localized subsiding zones reflecting rates up to 29 mm/year from 2014 to 2023. Resistivity profiles and field observations catalog them as cover collapse, bedrock collapse, and bedrock sagging sinkholes, carrying distinctive evaporite-driven dissolution features controlled by faulting activity. The results enhance our understanding of the linkages between sinkhole development, subsidence, and subsurface structures, emphasizing the need for comprehensive planning to mitigate future hazards in this less-representative yet populated region.

Gharial acoustic signaling: Novel underwater pops are temporally based, context-dependent, seasonally stable, male-specific, and individually distinctive.

Gharials (Gavialis gangeticus) produce a sudden, high amplitude, pulsatile, underwater soundcalled a POP. In this study, gharial POPs ranged from 9 to 55 ms, and were clearly audible on land and water, at ≥500 m. POPs were only performed underwater by adult males possessing a sex-specific, cartilaginous narial excrescence, termed the ghara. We recorded 130 POP events of seven wild adult males in 115 km stretch of the Chambal River during 2017-2019, using hydrophones and aerial mics. A POP event occurs when a male produces a single or double or triple POP, each with a specific duration and timing. A POP event was incorporated into a complex, multi-modal breathing display, typically performed by each male during the breeding season. Key features of this novel gharial POP signal are documented here for the first time. These include its incorporation into a complex breathing display, its reliance on temporal rather than spectral elements, its dependence on a specific social context, its stability within an individual, and its individually distinctive patterning specific to a particular male. The breathing display consisted of sub-audible vibrations (SAV) preceding each POP, then a stereotyped exhalation-inhalation-exhalation sequence, concluding with bubbling and submergence. In our study, 96% of the variation in POP signal parameters was explained by POP signal timings (92%) and number of POPs (4%), and only 2% was related to spectral features. Each POP event was performed in a specific social setting. Two behavioral contexts were examined: ALERT and PATROL. In each context, male identities were examined using Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA). Within each context, each of the seven males exhibited distinctive POP patterns that were context-specific and denoted a male's identity and his location. POP signal features were stable for individual males, from 1 year to the next. Overall, the seven males showed POP patterns that were individually specific, with minimal overlap amongst males, yet these were remarkably diverse. The stereotypy of POP patterns, based on temporal versus frequency difference was best characterized statistically using DFA metrics, rather than Beecher's Information Statistic, MANOVA, or Discriminant Score computations. Our field observations indicated that audiences of gharial, located nearby, and/or in the distance, responded immediately to POPs by orienting in the signal direction. Extensive auditory studies of crocodylians indicate that their capacity for auditory temporal discrimination and neural processing in relation to locating a sound target is on par with that of birds. How the POP sound is produced and broadcast loudly in both water and air has received little study to date. We briefly summarize existing reports on ghara anatomy, ontogeny, and paleontology. Finally, preliminary observations made in a clear underwater zoo enclosure indicate that jaw claps performed entirely underwater produce POP sounds. Simultaneous bubble clouds emanating from the base of the ghara are suggestive of cavitation phenomena associated with loud high volume sounds such as shrimp snaps and seal/walrus claps. We discuss the likelihood that the adult male's ghara plays an essential role in the production of the non-vocal underwater POP, a sexually dimorphic acoustic signal unique to gharial.

Phenology and voltinism of the Asian longhorned beetle (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) in South Carolina, United States.

A new population of the Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis Motschulsky), an invasive species in North America since 1996, was discovered in Charleston County, South Carolina, in 2020. This population is the furthest south Asian longhorned beetle has established in North America. Previous models only estimate development time at this latitude; as such, we examined Asian longhorned beetle phenology in this novel climate. Over 24 consecutive months, we collected 153 eggs, 878 larvae, 37 pupae, and 1 unemerged adult (1,009 total specimens) from the federal quarantine zone in South Carolina and used larval head capsule width to determine development rate and voltinism. The presence of Asian longhorned beetle adults was determined via visual field observations. Asian longhorned beetle in South Carolina appears to have a synchronous univoltine life cycle, in contrast to populations in the northern United States and Canada that typically develop in 2-3 yr. This information will be useful for future model development to determine Asian longhorned beetle life cycles, for implementing novel management methods, and will aid in predictions to benefit visual survey efficacy.

Stimulasi Motorik Kasar Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun melalui Permainan Karet di Taman Kanak-kanak Thoyyibah Kota Sawahlunto

The development of gross motor skills is related to children's ability to move larger body parts, such as their hands and feet. Good gross motor skills in children also influence their self-confidence when interacting and socializing with their surroundings and peers. One effort to improve children's gross motor skills at Thoyyibah Kindergarten in Sawahlunto City is through rubber band games. This study is a Classroom Action Research (CAR) conducted on 10 children, consisting of 5 boys and 5 girls, in December 2024 and January 2025. The research refers to the model developed by Suharsimi Arikunto, which includes four main steps: planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The study was conducted in two cycles, with Cycle I consisting of three meetings and Cycle II consisting of two meetings. Research data were collected through observation and documentation techniques. The data analysis technique used in this study is qualitative data analysis. The results of the study show an overall improvement in children's gross motor skills across all measured variables and indicators based on field observations.

Impact of Obesity With Chronic Hypertension In Pregnancy Age 35 Years

Background: The incidence of pregnancy with obesity in Indonesia reaches 21.8%. This can be more serious, if the pregnant woman is too old (≥ 35 years) then there will be more complications for the mother and fetus. Method: data collection by interviews and field observations. This case study was written based on objective documentation, analysis, and management. Results: Based on a case study conducted on two pregnant women aged 36 and 38 weeks, 35 years old with obesity and old age. The impact of obesity found is chronic hypertension which will reduce the supply of oxygen and food from the mother to the baby so that the fetus is diagnosed with suspected Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR) and Low Birth Weight (BBLR). The mother is categorized as level II obese so the fetus's weight does not match the gestational age. To prevent complications for the mother and baby, delivery is carried out by cesarean section (SC). The mother's baby is a High Social Value Baby (HSVB). Contraception The IUD is inserted directly after delivery. Conclusion: Care provided by midwives is appropriate during pregnancy. So that early detection of risk factors can be minimized to prevent possible complications. Keywords : Obesity, Pregnancy, Old age, Chronic Hypertension

OUTBREAK OF TOBAMOVIRUSES AND POTEXVIRUSES ASSOCIATED WITH DISEASE EPIDEMICS IN TOMATO PRODUCTION AREA OF IRAQ

This study was initiated to examine the tomato-infecting viruses belonging to the Tobamovirus and Potexvirus genera in Iraq. Field observations and surveys were carried out for three successive cropping seasons (2020/21 to 2022/23) in selected tomato production areas. The purpose was to identify the main viruses associated with tomato epidemics and assess the impact of different tomato cultivars on disease occurrence. A total of 700 tomato leaf samples were collected from seven governorates (Baghdad, Diyala, Babylon, Najaf, Kerbala, Nasiriya, and Basrah) and tested using pathogen-specific immunostrip kits. The survey showed a presence of Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV), Cymbidium mosaic virus (CymMV), Odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV), Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV), Pepino mosaic virus (PepMV) and Potato virus X (PVX) in tomato fields in Iraq. ToBRFV secured the highest relative incidence in tomato fields (7 governorates) followed by PepMV and CymMV and PMMoV (6 out of 7 governorates) and CGMMV, TMV (5 governorates), and PVX (3 governorates). The least was ORSV (only in Basrah). To our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive survey investigating Tobamovirus and Potexvirus on tomato fields in Iraq and the first report of ToBRFV, PMMoV, CymMV, ORSV, CGMMV and PepMV infecting tomato crops in Iraq.

202. Targeting Clostridioides difficile Infection Prevention Efforts with Artificial Intelligence

Abstract Background Infections with Clostridioides difficile are associated with prolonged hospital stays, higher costs, and significant morbidity. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools can accurately predict which hospitalized patients are most likely to acquire C. difficile infection (CDI). However, to date, such tools have not been used in clinical practice. We investigated how AI tools for CDI risk stratification could be integrated into clinical workflows to promote targeted infection prevention efforts. Details of the infection prevention bundle (a) Screenshot of the BPA for enhanced handwashing precautions. This BPA instructs the receiving provider to place an order for putting up the “Enhanced Handwashing Precautions” sign, depicted in Figure 2. (b) Screenshot of the BPA for antimicrobial stewardship. This BPA is educational and provides a list of recommendations for reducing risk of CDI, including discontinuing unnecessary acid suppressants, minimizing unnecessary antibiotics, consulting the beta-lactam allergy evaluation service, and encouraging patient to eat yogurt if appropriate. Methods A previously validated AI model for predicting CDI risk from routinely collected data in electronic health records was used to generate daily risk scores for adult inpatients presenting to Michigan Medicine between January 1, 2023 and December 31, 2023. These scores were used to focus infection prevention efforts on high-risk patients in 10 selected hospital units with the greatest concentration of CDI cases. The infection prevention bundle, aimed at reducing both susceptibility and exposure, included provider-facing best practice alerts (BPAs) for enhanced handwashing precautions and antimicrobial stewardship (Figure 1). Using retrospective data, we determined a risk threshold that targets 5 alerts/unit/week on average. Clinical staff on selected units were educated about the AI tool by the study team. Picture of the “Enhanced Handwashing Precautions” sign This sign is placed on the door of the rooms for high-risk patients in selected hospital units and instructs all persons to wash their hands with soap and water upon room entry. Results During the study, 12,983 hospitalizations corresponding to 10,815 patients were assessed daily by the model, totaling 109,068 CDI risk scores. Among this population, 2,151 (16.6%) high-risk hospitalizations exceeded the risk threshold and triggered BPAs (an average of 4.1 alerts/unit/week). Among the high-risk population, 1,647 (76.6%) and 117 (5.4%) hospitalizations received an order for enhanced handwashing precautions and an order for a β-lactam allergy evaluation consultation, respectively. Field observations and interviews with clinical staff revealed challenges associated with behavior changes such as compliance with handwashing using soap and water to remove spores. Conclusion AI tools can be integrated into clinical workflows to promote targeted infection prevention efforts. However, continuous monitoring of how such tools interact with existing workflows and education on novel infection prevention strategies are key to success. Disclosures Krishna Rao, MD, MS, Merck and Company, Inc.: Grant/Research Support|Rebiotix Inc.: Advisor/Consultant|Seres Therapeutics: Advisor/Consultant|Summit pharmaceuticals: Advisor/Consultant

Stamens enclosed by petals in Berchemia (Rhamnaceae): a unique mechanism for pollen presentation

IntroductionPollen is usually presented by the anthers after maturity. However, in some plants, pollen is presented to pollinators on other floral structures (other than the anthers), or via particular expulsion mechanisms, resulting in secondary pollen presentation. The unusual petal morphology in Berchemia mediates pollen presentation, characterised by a combination of secondary pollen presentation and primary pollen presentation. However, the function, the role in reproduction, and the evolutionary significance of the unusual petals remain unclear.MethodsIn this study, we took Berchemia flavescens and Berchemia polyphylla var. leioclada as examples, and used field observations, semi-thin sections technology, scanning electron microscopy, and pollination ecology detection methods to explore the unique pollen presentation strategies, petal functions, and reproductive strategies in Berchemia.ResultsThis is a unique pollen presentation process mediated by petals. In the advanced bud stage, petals curl inward, enclosing the stamens. Following anther dehiscence, pollen is released into the petal tube, where the filament and cone-shaped anthers act as pistons, extruding pollen or pollen clumps through gaps at the petal tube apex (secondary pollen presentation). Subsequently, as the anthers emerge from the petal tube, residual pollen is directly presented to pollinators (primary pollen presentation).DiscussionIn Berchemia, the petals enclosing the stamens, effectively shield the pollen from extreme environmental conditions. The petal-stamen complex slow movement (first centrifugal, later centripetal) and pollen presentation in Berchemia suggest a unique reproductive strategy. This mechanism promotes outcrossing, minimizing interference between the pistil and stamens, and offers reproductive assurance by delayed self-pollination.

A Stronger Kuroshio Intrusion Leads to Higher Chlorophyll a Concentration in the Northern South China Sea

AbstractThe Kuroshio intrusion from the Luzon Strait significantly affects ecosystems in the South China Sea (SCS), especially during the Northeast Monsoon, a time when field observations are notably sparse and where vertical mixing induced by strong winds can obscure the effects of the Kuroshio intrusion. In this study, we address these gaps by reanalyzing data from 20 cruises (5,067 samples) in the SCS between 2004 and 2015. We also carried out two dedicated field cruises during the Northeast and the Southwest Monsoon in 2018. Field observations from both cruises revealed a consistent unimodal relationship between total chlorophyll a (Chla) concentrations in the upper 50 m of the water column and the index of the Kuroshio intrusion. Specifically, a strong Kuroshio intrusion during the Northeast Monsoon significantly enhanced Chla concentrations in the northern SCS. This enhanced Chla concentration during the Northeast Monsoon was primarily driven by increases of Synechococcus and nanophytoplankton that contrasted with the dominance of Prochlorococcus during the Southeast Monsoon. Long‐term remote sensing data corroborated these findings and demonstrated a consistent pattern wherein intrusion by the Kuroshio led to elevated Chla concentrations, particularly during the Northeast Monsoon. There was a significant positive correlation between the intensity of the Kuroshio intrusion and the magnitude of the Chla increase. Furthermore, these findings suggested a concerning possibility: weakening of the Kuroshio intrusion intensity over time might diminish future biogeochemical effects on SCS ecosystems. Continued monitoring and research will be crucial to understanding and responding to these changes.

Morphological and DNA analysis of pollen grains on butterfly individuals reveal their flower visitation history.

Many butterfly species are conspicuous flower visitors. However, understanding their flower visitation patterns in natural habitats remains challenging due to the difficulty of tracking individual butterflies. Therefore, we aimed at establishing a protocol to solve the problem using the Common five-ring butterfly, Ypthima argus (Nymphalidae: Satyrinae). Focusing on the pollen grains attached the butterfly's body surface, we examined validities of two pollen analyses based on pollen morphology and DNA markers (ITS1 and ITS2), in addition to the classical route census method. We captured thirty-nine butterflies from mid-April to early July and collected pollen grains from each individual. Morphological and DNA analyses of collected pollens identified eighteen and thirty-four taxa of insect pollinated plants respectively, including woody plants such as Castanopsis. The DNA analysis detected as many as thirteen plant taxa from a single butterfly, indicating its high sensitivity for detecting flower visitation. We detected more plant taxa in May when many individuals were flying. This is assumingly related to the post emergence days of the butterflies with more foraging experience. We also found that fluctuations of pollen grain numbers of Leucanthemum vulgare and Erigeron philadelphicus on individual butterflies depend on their flowering periods overlapping partly. Consequently, we conclude that pollen morphology and DNA barcoding analysis, and field observations are mutually complementary techniques, providing an integrated pollen analysis method to study the pollination ecology of butterflies.

Tourism Object Development Pattern in Sungai Raja Village, Jelai District, Sukamara District, Central Kalimantan

Desa Sungai Raja Village, Jelai District, Sukamara Regency, Central Kalimantan, has natural and cultural potential that has the opportunity to be developed into a leading tourist destination. This research aims to formulate a model for developing tourism objects based on sustainable local potential using a quantitative approach through surveys, field observations and structured interviews. The research results show the potential for ecotourism in rivers, mangrove forests and local cultural diversity. However, obstacles such as limited infrastructure, lack of promotion and community participation are the main challenges. The proposed model emphasizes synergy between government, society, and the private sector through increasing human resource capacity, improving infrastructure, and effective promotional strategies. Apart from that, the integration of digital technology for tourism promotion and destination management is also proposed as an innovative step. Training and community empowerment programs in the tourism sector are also part of this model to create professional destination management. It is hoped that this model can increase tourist visits, strengthen the local economy, and preserve the local environment and culture, making Sungai Raja Village a leading destination in Central Kalimantan that contributes to the development of sustainable tourism. Keywords: Development Model, Tourist Attractions, Sungai Raja Village, Sustainable Tourism, Central Kalimantan.

Nitrogen and Water Additions Affect N2O Dynamics in Temperate Steppe by Regulating Soil Matrix and Microbial Abundance

Elucidating the effects of nitrogen and water addition on N2O dynamics is critical, as N2O is a key driver of climate change (including nitrogen deposition and shifting precipitation patterns) and stratospheric ozone depletion. The temperate steppe is a notable natural source of this potent greenhouse gas. This study uses field observations and soil sampling to investigate the seasonal pattern of N2O emissions in the temperate steppe of Inner Mongolia and the mechanism by which nitrogen and water additions, as two different types of factors, alter this seasonal pattern. It explores the regulatory roles of environmental factors, soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure, and abundance of functional genes in influencing N2O emissions. These results indicate that the effects of nitrogen and water addition on N2O emission mechanisms vary throughout the growing season. Nitrogen application consistently increase N2O emissions. In contrast, water addition suppresses N2O emissions during the early growing season but promotes emissions during the peak and late growing seasons. In the early growing season, nitrogen addition primarily increased the dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) levels, which provided a matrix for nitrification and promoted N2O emissions. Meanwhile, water addition increased soil moisture, enhancing the abundance of the nosZ (nitrous oxide reductase) gene while reducing nitrate nitrogen (NO3−-N) levels, as well as AOA (ammonia-oxidizing archaea) amoA and AOB (ammonia-oxidizing bacteria) amoA gene expression, thereby lowering N2O emissions. During the peak growing season, nitrogen’s role in adjusting pH and ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N), along with amplifying AOB amoA, spiked N2O emissions. Water addition affects the balance between nitrification and denitrification by altering aerobic and anaerobic soil conditions, ultimately increasing N2O emissions by inhibiting nosZ. As the growing season waned and precipitation decreased, temperature also became a driver of N2O emissions. Structural equation modeling reveals that the impacts of nitrogen and water on N2O flux variations through nitrification and denitrification are more significant during the peak growing season. This research uncovers innovative insights into how nitrogen and water additions differently impact N2O dynamics across various stages of the growing season in the temperate steppe, providing a scientific basis for predicting and managing N2O emissions within these ecosystems.

The rural areas conservancy sites and ecotourism-climate change quandaries: an integrated rural initiative impact on environmental sustainability and livelihoods

Purpose This study aims to investigate issues of natural resource management (NRM), conservation and ecotourism leadership on rural livelihood in Musina Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa. It concentrated on the existing and probable effects of ecotourism and integrated rural activities and their environmental influences on climate change and vice versa, subsistence and sustainability. The study utilizes a broad literature review, focus group discussions and field observations to investigate the municipality’s biodiversity, holistic livelihoods and tourism resource and facility concerns with climate change implications in the study area, with data analyzed manually and also by means of cross tabulations and central tendencies. A harmful link between ecotourism-induced environmental impacts and integrated rural activities that retain potential climate change consequences is found to exist in the vicinity. Nevertheless, it is fathomed in line with the study findings that when tourism actions adhere to the justifications of sustainable and responsible tourism management, they can result in better ecotourism products that foster environmental sustainability and enhance rural livelihoods. Therefore, the study has identified a need for decent ecotourism facilities and activities and a managerial approach to diminish climate change hazards and spur subsistence for local communities in the municipality. Within its rationale and ability, the study presents an analysis of conservation, ecotourism management, environmental degradation and responsible tourism qualities regarding climate change consequences within the municipality.

Community-Based Ecotourism Management Model Supporting Sustainable Tourism in Desa Batu Jongjong, Kecamatan Bahorok, Kabupaten Langkat

The existence of ecotourism in Desa Batu Jongjong, Kecamatan Bahorok, can be an opportunity for the village community. However, the management of ecotourism, especially in Desa Batu Jongjong, Kabupaten Langkat, has not fully provided benefits in terms of economy, ecology, and socio-culture. The issues prompting this research include the lack of human resources in the tourism sector, unclear regulations, and management models for tourist attractions. This is evident from the limited active involvement of the community in tourism activities. The main goal of this study is to develop a community-based ecotourism management model. This research uses a qualitative method with descriptive analysis, SWOT matrix, and the formulation of IFAS, EFAS, and internal and external matrices. Data collection was carried out through interviews, surveys, and field observations, involving selected stakeholders as informants. The SWOT analysis shows that ecotourism management in Desa Batu Jongjong has a total internal factor score of 3.34 and an external factor score of 3.31, placing Desa Batu Jongjong in cell 1, which means it is very strong. In this position, strategies such as market penetration, market development, management, and product development can be applied. Therefore, the model to be implemented includes enhancing promotional content, establishing and strengthening ecotourism institutions, actively involving visitors in management, increasing community involvement, developing integrated tourism packages, improving facilities and infrastructure, creating new tourist attractions, and enhancing community empowerment. By implementing these strategic measures, community-based ecotourism management in Desa Batu Jongjong can be further optimized, supporting sustainable tourism, and providing significant economic, social, and environmental benefits for the local community.