Visual Surveys Research Articles

Estructura comunitaria de peces, asteroideos y equinoideos en el Farallón de San Ignacio, arrecife situado en la “brecha faunística de Sinaloa”, México

Even though there is extensive research on the rocky reefs in the Gulf of California, some areas still have scarce information, such as the Farallón de San Ignacio, which is well known for its high biodiversity and its location in the biogeographic transition zone known as the "Sinaloa gap." Due to the limited information available for this site, the present study aimed to describe the composition and structure of asteroid and echinoid fish assemblages at the Farallón de San Ignacio. For this purpose, visual surveys were conducted in November 2016 using belt transects of 25 m long by 4 m wide for fish and 25 m long by 2 m wide for invertebrates, to estimate species abundance, richness, diversity, and evenness indices, and to compare them with other rocky reefs located at the same latitude on the western coast of the Gulf of California that were visited the same year. A total of 34 species were recorded, including two asteroids and four echinoids. The most abundant species were the fish Azurina atrilobata, the starfish Phataria unifacialis, and the sea urchin Diadema mexicanum. Despite the Farallón’s isolation, the complexity of its community structure is similar to that of other islands in the Gulf of California, although there were differences in species composition due to the high abundance of herbivorous species at this site.

Assessment of Relationship between Asphalt Concrete Pavement Performance Indicators: Pavement Condition Index and RoadRoid based International Roughness Index

Pavement condition assessment is one of the important tasks to be carried out to prioritize maintenance needs of the road. The Pavement Condition Index and International Roughness Index are some of the most widely used and comprehensive indices for the assessment of pavement condition. The maintenance planning is generally carried out in terms of SDI in Nepal which is only a subjective measure so PCI can be used as a more objective indicator than SDI. The PCI is more representative of the overall condition of the pavement surface by considering all forms of distresses. Whereas, IRI, which is a measure of perceived road roughness is mainly concerned with the ride quality and is based on the distresses occurring on the wheel path. The research aimed to develop the correlation between the two indices to look for usability of either of the indices whenever required. For the determination of PCI, visual inspection survey was carried out based on which the distress type, density and severity were quantified. The IRI data was collected with the help of RoadRoid application after calibration and validation using Laser Profiler. The data matching in respective sections was carried out and relationships between the two indices are determined in terms of linear, logarithmic and polynomial models of different degree. The coefficient of determination for polynomial relationship model was found to be the highest with coefficient of determination of 0.7858. All the models presented with negative correlation between the indices indicating the increase in IRI would cause the decrease in PCI value and vice versa.

Characterising a potential nearshore nursery ground for the blackchin guitarfish (Glaucostegus cemiculus) in Ma’agan Michael, Israel

The blackchin guitarfish Glaucostegus cemiculus has suffered severe declines and regional extirpation throughout its known distributions. While this species and its relative, the common guitarfish Rhinobatos rhinobatos, have been described in the Mediterranean Sea with co-occurring habitat ranges, no research has recorded the existence or extent of these two separate populations along the Israeli coastal waters. Along a particular coast in Israel, Ma’agan Michael, fishermen have reported annual observations of juvenile guitarfish between June to November for the last forty years. Based on these citizen-based observations the main research objective is to establish whether Ma’agan Michael fulfils all three criteria from the literature by Dr Michelle Heupel, allowing it to be acknowledged as a nursery ground for G. cemiculus. The methodology built for this objective integrates biological characteristics data with the identification of a recurrent seasonal distribution. Visual surveys exhibited a significantly higher abundance in Ma’agan Michael when compared to an adjacent area (Caesarea), with 2,096 recorded observations overall. Additionally, using a species-specific modified Catch and Release protocol, a total of 492 juveniles were captured with a beach seine net. During these capturing events, individuals were morphometrically measured and sampled for future genetic analyses. Out of these, 327 specimens were also fitted for PIT tags to track recaptures in subsequent captures. The highest abundance of neonates was caught from August to September each year (2017–2019), and all individuals captured during this study were identified in the field as G. cemiculus, ranging from 20–35 cm in length (85% of captures). Many specimens had an umbilical cord scar (n = 88), with a large percentage possessing visual remains of the yolk sac. For the first time, this study provides an inter-year description of the species Glaucostegus cemiculus present along the Israeli shoreline.

Short Communication: A rapid survey of herpetofauna diversity in Bama coastal forest at Baluran National Park, Indonesia

Abstract. Siddiq AM, Wimbaningrum R, Sulistiyowati H, Setiawan R, Setiawan A, Wahono ND. 2024. Short Communication: A rapid survey of herpetofauna diversity in Bama coastal forest at Baluran National Park, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 2323-2329. Scientific reports on herpetofauna in Baluran National Park (BNP) are still limited. Meanwhile, several geographical areas, such as the Bama Baluran National Park coastal forest, have potential herpetofauna diversity within this conservation area yet to be reported. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the diversity of herpetofauna species in BNP's Bama coastal forest (BCF). The method was conducted using the Visual Encounter Survey (VES) in three tracks, conducted by combining Time Restricted Search (TRS) or using observation time for five hours during the mid-afternoon (06.00 AM-11.00 AM) and four hours at night (07.00 PM-11.00 PM) on each track. This study recorded 17 herpetofauna species, comprising 6 amphibian and 11 reptile species, in the BCF of Baluran National Park. The diversity index of herpetofauna species in this area was moderate category (H’=2.25). Species Fejervarya limnocharis Gravenhorst 1829 (38 individuals) has the highest abundance in the BCF and was found in track 1 (swamp area). Meanwhile, three species have the lowest abundance, such as Kaloula baleata Müller 1836, Microhyla palmipes Boulenger 1897, and Cryptoblepharus balinensis Barbour 1911, with 1 individual in each species.

Re-appearance of the gregarious gastropod Dendropoma anguliferum (Vermetidae) on abrasion platforms in the Carmel coast (Northern Israel)

After three decades of sharp decline in the Dendropoma populations in Israel and genuine concern for their extinction, we affirm the re-appearance of the gregarious gastropod Dendropoma anguliferum on abrasion platforms in the Carmel coast (Northern Israel). A visual survey conducted during December 2020 and February 2021 along the rims of abrasion platforms in the Carmel coast area revealed 195 living clusters of live D. anguliferum. DNA sequences from tissue samples unambiguously supported the identity of our material as the Levantine Sea member D. anguliferum of the Dendropoma petraeum species complex, with 99- 100% identity to sequences obtained from D. anguliferum from Southern Lebanon.

Natural disturbance allows multiple anuran taxa to persist in a dynamic wetland complex

AbstractThe maintenance of biological diversity is frequently enhanced in a heterogenous landscape by some level of disturbance. Thus, when a landscape becomes stabilized and homogenized through the spread of an invasive plant species, there may be consequences for native biodiversity, particularly for those biotas that depend on the pre‐existing, natural disturbance regime of that landscape. At Long Point, Ontario, Canada, a sandspit in Lake Erie, the community of anuran amphibians experienced the co‐incidence of 2 major disturbance events, 1 anthropogenic and 1 natural: an intervention to remove the invasive form of the common reed (Phragmites australis australis) and a spate of extensive dune washouts caused by high water levels and storms. As a result of the unequal distribution of disturbance in the landscape, different areas were affected by only the dune washouts, only the common reed treatment, both disturbances, or neither disturbance. From May to August 2021, we explored how the disturbances affected the resident frog and toad species habitat associations in the 4 different disturbance conditions in the landscape. By means of minnow traps, acoustic surveys, and visual surveys, we determined that the dune washouts had a greater influence on resident anurans than the common reed treatment. Ranid frogs (Ranidae) tended to inhabit non‐washout sites, whereas Fowler's toads (Anaxyrus fowleri) congregated in the newly formed, sand flats and shallow, de‐vegetated pools resulting from the washouts. Neither ranid frogs nor Fowler's toads demonstrated avoidance of the sites affected by the herbicide treatment and mechanical rollover of the common reed. This evidence of species sorting, which enables multiple species to persist in a dynamic and heterogeneous landscape, suggests that wildlife management in aid of threatened species recovery may find success by encouraging natural disturbance regimes in dynamic landscapes. Future management endeavors should consider refraining from complete dune stabilization in these landscapes to allow the natural washouts to occur at a higher frequency, while ensuring the continued effectiveness of the invasive common reed eradication.

Postoperative Negative Pain Thoughts and Their Correlation With Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: An Observational Cohort Study

Background: Pain and pain perception are influenced by patients’ thoughts. The short form Negative Pain Thoughts Questionnaire (NPTQ-SF) can be used to quantify unhelpful negative cognitive biases about pain, but the relationship between NPTQ-SF scores and orthopaedic surgery outcomes is not known. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose was to assess the relationship between negative pain thoughts, as measured by the NPTQ-SF, and patient-reported outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair, as well as to compare NPTQ-SF scores and outcomes between patients with and without a history of chronic pain and psychiatric history. It was hypothesized that patients with worse negative pain thoughts would have worse patient-reported outcomes. Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Methods: In total, 109 patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were administered the 4-item NPTQ-SF, 12-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) Shoulder Evaluation Form, and visual analog scale pain survey preoperatively between July 2021 and August 2022. The same surveys were completed ≥6 months postoperatively by 74 patients confirmed to have undergone arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Results: Preoperative NPTQ-SF scores did not show any correlation with the postoperative patient-reported outcomes measured in this study. Postoperative NPTQ-SF scores were statistically significantly negatively correlated with postoperative SF-12 Physical Health Score, SF-12 Mental Health Score, ASES, and satisfaction scores (P < .05). Postoperative NPTQ-SF scores were statistically significantly positively correlated with postoperative visual analog scale scores (P < .001). Moreover, postoperative NPTQ-SF scores were statistically significantly negatively correlated with achieving a Patient Acceptable Symptom State and the minimal clinically important difference on the postoperative ASES form (P < .001 and P = .009, respectively). Conclusion: Postoperative patient thought patterns and their perception of pain are correlated with postoperative outcomes after rotator cuff repair. This correlation suggests a role for counseling and expectation management in the postoperative setting. Conversely, preoperative thought patterns regarding pain, as measured by the NPTQ-SF, do not correlate with postoperative patient-reported outcome measures. Therefore, the NPTQ-SF should not be used as a preoperative tool to aid the prediction of outcomes after rotator cuff repair.

Enhancing visual comfort in staircases: A comprehensive analysis and design recommendations

Abstract People should be walking towards the inside of the dwelling through an appropriate visual environment in transitional space; this environment is the staircase in the collective housing. The proper understanding of visual adaptation parameters in the staircase helps architects provide a suitable environment for inhabitants. This paper aims to specify design elements of the staircase in collective housing, to achieve a visual comfort in this transitional space. The work involved two approaches: field measurements and a visual comfort survey using a questionnaire; 144 questionnaires are collected, in four residential buildings with different staircases treatment in the city of Arris, Algeria, to examine the illuminance levels in different staircase positions along the path from outside the building to inside, in summer and winter where illuminance ratios were calculated and compared with CIBSE Code. The discomfort sensations ranged from "subtle” to "dramatic”. The results show that a staircase with the percentage of opening of 88% indicated "strong" and "dramatic" visual shock in many points and as this staircase is open, it is exposed to light conditions and so it does not ensure the necessary transition. This leads to advising against the open staircase. In the case of a staircase treated with transoms of clear glass with the percentage of opening of 11%, these transoms direct the light to specific areas creating "strong" visual shock in many points of the stair landings and hence it leads to advise against that. The staircases treated with vertical bays throughout the façade presenting a percentage of opening between 19% and 22%, these treatments allow the penetration of daylight in a diffused way which ensures a balanced distribution of daylight inside the staircases. The existence of a solid overhang at the entrance; the façade treated with vertical bays, where the percentage of opening of the façade is about 19% and 22%, provided adequate transition leading to reasonable visual comfort.

Aerial eDNA contributes vital information for fungal biodiversity assessment

Abstract Fungal diversity drives key processes in terrestrial ecosystems, but remains challenging to measure in the field and to monitor over time. In particular, we lack methods capable of describing both the regional biotas and fungal related conservation values, such as habitats for rare and threatened fungi. Environmental DNA (eDNA) could serve this purpose, once its validity to capture fungal assemblage properties is established. Using three approaches (full‐season eDNA sampling from air, snapshot visual surveys, and eDNA sampling from dead wood), we present the first comparative assessment of fungal diversity at forest stand scale. The focus was on two well‐known fungal groups (lichens and wood inhabiting basidiomycetes) in old hemiboreal forests. Aerial eDNA revealed regional‐scale cryptic diversity not detected in visual surveys, particularly among lichens and including species of conservation concern. However, at the local population scale, both aerial eDNA and eDNA sampled from dead wood often missed visually detected species. In particular, eDNA sampled from dead wood performed only as a supplementary source of species data. The methods differed in detecting the spatial covariance of wood fungal and lichen diversity, with the combined (most complete) dataset indicating the strongest congruence. Synthesis and applications. Neither eDNA approaches nor visual surveys were able to detect full diversity of local fungi and all species of specific conservation value. However, there is clear merit in combined use of these methods, particularly in pairing aerial eDNA with visual observation‐based surveys on selected taxon groups. This approach can be especially valuable in fungal groups that have challenging taxonomy, inhabit partly inaccessible microhabitats, or have overall high diversity (such as lichens).

Detection of environmental DNA of finless porpoise (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis) in Osaka Bay, Japan

Finless porpoises (Neophocaena asiaeorientalis) currently face population decline caused by significant human activities and are categorized as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List; however, information on their habitats is currently insufficient. Although conducting visual surveys to determine the distribution of cetaceans is common, visual observation of finless porpoises is challenging owing to their specific morphological and ecological characteristics. In this study, we developed an environmental DNA (eDNA) assay for species-specific detection of finless porpoises. To test the utility of the assay, we conducted a visual survey in parallel with an eDNA survey by collecting water samples from 50 sites throughout Osaka Bay. We visually found a finless porpoise at one location and detected eDNA at nine sites, including sites near the visual observation site and those with rare sightings of finless porpoises. Therefore, in this study, we suggest that the use of eDNA analysis for distribution surveys of finless porpoises will enable more efficient surveys. The proposed eDNA technique can not only be applied to the distribution surveys finless porpoises but also to those of other cetacean species.

Identifying villages and breeding habitats for dengue transmission in Thailand: insights from long-term larval surveys

BackgroundIn Thailand, the Department of Disease Control (DDC) regularly performs visual larval surveys throughout the country to monitor dengue fever outbreaks. Since 2016, the DDC switched from a paper-based to a digital-based larval survey process. The significant amount of larval survey data collected digitally presents a valuable opportunity to precisely identify the villages and breeding habitats that are vulnerable to dengue transmission.MethodsThe study used digitally collected larval survey data from 2017 to 2019. It employed larval indices to evaluate the risk of dengue transmission in villages based on seasonal, regional, and categorical perspectives. Furthermore, the study comprehensively scrutinized each container category by employing different measures to determine its breeding preference ratio.ResultsThe result showed that villages with a very high-risk of dengue transmission were present year-round in all regions, with the highest proportion during the rainy season. The Southern region had more high-risk villages during the winter season due to rainfall. Slums and residential communities were more vulnerable to dengue than commercial areas. All container categories could potentially serve as breeding habitats for dengue-carrying mosquitoes, with abandoned containers being the most significant breeding sites.ConclusionsThe risk of dengue transmission was present year-round throughout Thailand. This underscores the importance of community and government initiatives, along with sustained public awareness campaigns and active community engagement, to efficiently and permanently eradicate mosquito breeding habitats. It should be noted that larval indices may not strongly correlate with dengue cases, as indicated by the preliminary analysis. However, they offer valuable insights into potential breeding sites for targeted preventive measures.

A Visual Survey of Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Performance in Tunneling Excavation: Mainstream Direction, Brief Review and Future Prospects

This study employs scientometric analysis to investigate the current trajectory of research on tunnel boring machine (TBM) performance and collaborative efforts. Utilizing software tools like Pajek 5.16 and VOSviewer 1.6.18, it scrutinizes literature from 2000 to 2021 sourced from the Web of Science (WOS). The findings illuminate TBM research as an interdisciplinary and intersectoral field attracting increasing national and institutional attention. Notable contributions from China, Iran, the United States, Turkey, and Australia underscore the global significance of TBM research. The recent upsurge in annual publications, primarily driven by Chinese research initiatives, reflects a renewed vigor in TBM exploration. Additionally, the paper presents a succinct evaluation of TBM advantages and drawbacks compared to conventional drill and blast methods, discussing key considerations in excavation methodology selection. Moreover, the study comprehensively reviews TBM performance prediction models, categorizing them into theoretical, empirical, and artificial intelligence-driven approaches. Finally, rooted in metaverse theory, the discourse delves into the immersive learning model and the architecture of a TBM metaverse. In the future, the immersive training and learning model diagram can be employed in scenarios such as employee training and the promotion of safety knowledge. Additionally, the TBM metaverse architecture can simulate, monitor, diagnose, predict, and control the organization, management, and service processes and behaviors of TBMs. This will enhance efficient collaboration across various aspects of the project production cycle. This forward-looking perspective anticipates future trends in TBM technology, emphasizing societal impact and enhancement of economic benefits.

Distance models reveal biases associated with passive trapping methods for measuring wild bee abundance

IntroductionThere is overwhelming evidence of declines in native bee populations and therefore a need for increased monitoring to track these declines and assist in conservation and restoration efforts. Bees can be sampled non-lethally through visual surveys (e.g., distance transects) or lethally through active (e.g., hand netting) or passive (e.g., traps that lure insects from afar) methods. These lethal methods suffer from imperfect detection that is difficult to account for and can confound inferences about habitat characteristics. Additionally, evidence suggests that lethal sampling methods can even invert habitat quality patterns such that high-quality sites yield fewer individuals and low-quality sites yield more individuals.MethodsTo study potential biases associated with imperfect detection, we used hierarchical density estimation with visual surveys to estimate density of bees within 40 young forest patches across Pennsylvania, USA. We surveyed bee communities non-lethally using visual surveys and lethally using blue-vane traps and bee bowls every two weeks between May and September 2019. We collected data on blooming flowers, vegetation structure, and weather during times of survey.ResultsWe found that bee densities estimated from distance transects had a positive relationship with floral resource availability. In contrast, abundance measured via bee bowls and blue-vane traps had no relationship, or sometimes even negative trends with habitat quality, including floral resource availability. Raw bee counts within 2-m of the transect always correlated with modeled densities, showing that some methods do not share the biases of attractive traps.DiscussionOur study demonstrates that failing to account for imperfect detection can impact the interpretation of pollinator surveys and adds to a growing body of literature that acknowledges the value of distance sampling for insects like bees to better understand species’ habitat needs and to monitor populations for conservation.

Rapid survey for assessing effective cataract surgical coverage (eCSC) and effective refractive error coverage (eREC)-Novel indicators of universal eye health.

As per the recent World Health Organization estimates, approximately 2.2 billion people have near and distance vision impairment (VI) globally, and out of this almost 50% is avoidable. The Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Visual Impairment survey was a cross-sectional study conducted in September 2021, using cluster random sampling in 42 clusters with a cluster size of 140, giving a total of 6000 participants. Two teams comprising of trained optometrists and social workers conducted the ocular examination which included unaided, pinhole, and aided visual acuity assessments followed by examination of the anterior segment and lens. Distance visual acuity was measured using simplified tumbling "E" charts of different sizes for VA of 6/12, 6/18, and 6/60. The lens assessment was done in an un-dilated pupil with torch light by the optometrist. Overall, 6520 individuals aged 6 years and above were enumerated, of whom 5440 (83.4%) were examined. The response rate for examination was better among females (93.1%) than males (73.9%), and it decreased from 93.8% in the age group 6-15 years to 77.1% in the 45+ age group. The prevalence of blindness and VI were 0.18% (95% CI: 0.06-0.29) and 4.19% (95%CI: 3.65-4.72), respectively. The major causes of VI in all age groups were uncorrected refractive error (65.4%), cataract (23.7%), cataract surgical complications (2.6%), corneal opacity (0.4%), and other posterior segment diseases (7.5%). The effective cataract surgical coverage (eCSC) was 61.8%, effective refractive error coverage (eREC) for distance vision was 59.8%, and eREC for near vision was 47.0%. The RAAVI methodology is suitable to measure effective coverage in the general population, both for baseline measurement and periodic monitoring. The 2030 targets for the surveyed district are 90% eCSC and 100% eREC. Such exercises need to be conducted in each district of the country to determine the baseline and target values of effective coverage.

Endangered giant kelp forests support similar fish and macroinvertebrate communities to sympatric stipitate kelp forests

Kelp forests provide habitat for many species, but it remains uncertain whether specific kelp forest types support distinct biodiversity. Surface canopy-forming giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) forests in Tasmania, Australia, have declined significantly due to climate change, and have been widely replaced by forests dominated by smaller stipitate kelps like Ecklonia radiata. However, there is limited knowledge of the community composition of Macrocystis forests and how this may differ from the stipitate kelp forest community. Underwater visual census surveys were conducted of the fishes and macroinvertebrates (> 2.5 cm length) in remnant Macrocystis forests in south-eastern Tasmania, and in adjacent stipitate kelp forests. 18 sites (9 of each forest type) were surveyed across two regions during the period of peak growth and canopy cover (i.e. winter-spring). Faunal community composition varied little between forest types, although Macrocystis forests supported more than double the abundance and biomass of mobile fishes, while cryptic fishes differed by forest type depending on region. Macroinvertebrate assemblages did not differ between forest types nor regions. Thus, for the taxa and time period examined, Tasmanian Macrocystis and stipitate kelp forests supported mostly similar faunal communities. Kelp forest communities showed spatial variation and were also likely influenced by a variety of other habitat characteristics, such as the relatively small patch sizes and/or ephemeral state of the remnant Macrocystis forests. Quantifying the community structure of these endangered communities informs the ecological changes that have occurred and will serve as an important reference for ongoing conservation and restoration activities.

Comparison of paired sex ratio estimates obtained from novel molecular assays and visual surveys in the sexually dimorphic Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus)

Comparison of paired sex ratio estimates obtained from novel molecular assays and visual surveys in the sexually dimorphic Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus)

Conservation Status of Reptilia in Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve, Western Ghats, India and its Environment

The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve is an important biogeographical hot spot and hosts diverse ecosystem in its habitat. The objectives of the present study are to assess conservation status of Reptilia in Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve and to know the role of habitat in harbouring and conserving/protecting wild fauna. Day time opportunistic visual encounter survey method was employed to study and site different species of Reptiles. There are about 78 species of reptiles inhabited in the reserve, out of which 15 species are threatened as per IUCN, 2023 The reserve harbors three species of turtle and tortoises, 31 species of lizards under five families and 44 species of snakes under six families. There are about 37 species of reptiles which are endemic in the region comprises one species of Geoemydidae, six species of Gekkonidae, eight species of Agamidae, two species of Scincidae, seven species of Uropeltidae, eight species of Colubridae, one species of Pareidae, one species of Elapidae and three species of Viperidae.

Diversity of Freshwater Turtles Melanochelys trijuga in and Around Sankarapuram Wetland Complex on Kallakurichi District, Tamil Nadu, India

India is one of the most species-rich regions of freshwater turtles in the world, also, they are being collected, for slaughter, eaten, and traded in huge numbers. The scope of this study on Melanochelys trijuga, also known as the Indian Black Turtle, focuses on collecting comprehensive information about the species in India, specifically in Tamil Nadu, with a special emphasis on Sankarapuram.The study aims to address the lack of current data about this turtle species and contribute to the understanding of its taxonomy, distribution, habitat, behavior, and conservation status. Various methods are employed in this study such as visual sighting of habitat to encounter the target animal, and, indirectly through interview-based survey information from local communities. Visual survey was conducted on 20 locations of the sankarapuram study area. On the surveyed 20 locations the tortoise was observed in five locations viz. two Coconut farm, two ordinary well which used for irrigation purpose and a lake side muddy shallow area. Totally 10 individuals were observed in this study period. We had an opportunity to examine the specimens very closely once it comes out behind the open well. The captured specimens were later examined by comparison with the standard key characteristics and manuals in order to identify the specimen and found as Melanochelys trijuga species. In this study we observed both male and female individuals. The individuals are found as adults. The characteristics and ecology information were compared with the existing data in previous record and publications and manuals. Obtained Melanochelys trijuga species was found as Nearly Threatened status in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) category.

A density surface model describing the habitat of the Critically Endangered Rice’s whale Balaenoptera ricei in the Gulf of Mexico

The newly recognized Rice’s whale Balaenoptera ricei is among the most endangered large whale species in the world and primarily occupies a region near the continental shelf break in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico (GoMex). We analyzed visual line-transect survey data collected throughout the northern GoMex from 2003-2019 and developed spatially explicit density maps using a density surface modeling approach to examine relationships between Rice’s whale density and bathymetric and oceanographic features. We identified water depth, surface chl a concentration, bottom temperature, and bottom salinity as key parameters that define the Rice’s whale habitat. This is consistent with upwelling of cold, high-salinity water along the continental shelf break and seasonal input of high-productivity surface water originating from coastal sources. The dominant circulation patterns in the GoMex, including the presence of Loop Current eddies, lead to increased productivity and likely play a role in maintaining high densities of forage species needed to support Rice’s whales. Extrapolation of the model suggests additional regions in Mexican waters of GoMex that may be suitable for Rice’s whales. This study informs the designation of critical habitat as defined by the US Endangered Species Act and will assist in marine spatial planning activities to avoid additional anthropogenic impacts to Rice’s whales associated with the development of wind energy and aquaculture.

Shark Fin City: transitional marine wildlife economies in Global Hong Kong

ABSTRACT Hong Kong has historically been the epicenter of the global shark fin trade. Despite this legacy, recent public outreach campaigns highlighting the effects of consumption on marine ecosystems have precipitated shifts in the market. Fish maw and sea cucumber have emerged as substitutes in wildlife markets, marking an understudied phenomenon from urban geographical perspectives. This article investigates the transitional nature of social value systems underpinning Hong Kong's marine wildlife market through interviews with retailers, conservation organizations, and government officials, as well as visual surveys of market displays. Hong Kong's marine wildlife market, this article contends, brings into sharp relief how transitions in social value systems that substitute one type of non-fungible wildlife commodity for others can amplify biodiversity loss and reproduce expressions of social difference in urban space. The article illuminates how social value systems embedded in urban wildlife markets are related to human health, aging, gifting, and relationship building. Furthermore, it analyzes how the possession, consumption, and display of high-value wildlife commodities in cities reflects classed and gendered forms of social difference. The article further examines the challenges of regulating the market and shaping public values and actions in the face of escalating global biodiversity loss.