Verlorenvlei is a globally important RAMSAR wetland on the arid west coast of South Africa. A prolonged drought between 2016 and 2021 and increasing competition for water from the agricultural sector resulted in extremely low water levels. We used historical aerial and satellite imagery from 1942 and rainfall and water level data for the past 50 years, to assess habitat changes within the estuarine functional zone of the Verlorenvlei Estuarine Lake. Prior to the drought, lake water levels and water surface area remained stable (1113 ± 27 ha (SE)). Since then, there has been a 64% decrease in open water area, exposing 193 ha of sandbanks, of which 190.9 ha were hyper-sulfidic pyrite-rich. The water in the lower lake was hypersaline (>100), and in the middle, it was acidic (pH<3). The low water level plus sediment and nutrient input from surrounding agriculture resulted in a localised increase in reeds. Additional pressures, such as fires, have reduced the above-ground biomass of reeds and sedges, potentially altering surface morphology and reducing stored carbon. Despite flooding and filling up in June 2023, the lake remained in an acidic state (3.9-4.3). Similar low-lake level, hypersaline and acidic conditions are predicted to become more common under future climate change scenarios where aridity and extreme weather events are anticipated. Inflow of fresh water into the estuary and control of farming practices are required to keep the Verlorenvlei in a functional state, with long-term monitoring necessary to assess the ecological condition in response to restoration actions. SIGNIFICANCE: We assessed the habitat changes in Verlorenvlei, an estuarine lake on the arid west coast of South Africa. Estuarine lakes are scarce, and an extended drought greatly reduced the water surface area, exposing hyper-sulfidic pyrite-rich soils, leading to lake acidification and a negative response from biota. Competition for water from agribusiness and the burning of reeds are added pressures. Subsequent heavy rains have been slow to buffer lake acidity, and the impacts thereof serve as a warning for the management of similar ecosystems and their ecological water requirements, especially under climate change where extreme weather conditions, increased aridity and competition for water are realities.

The Groot Aub (GA) settlement depends entirely on groundwater for domestic purposes and other development activities. Development activities are mainly agriculture, such as animal husbandry, chicken farming and crop farming using irrigation. However, these activities have the potential to contaminate the groundwater system. A total of 87 groundwater samples were collected from the boreholes in the study area during the dry and wet season. Water quality parameters (pH, salinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC) and hydrochemistry (Na+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ > K+, and HCO3- > SO4(2-) > Cl-) of 5 boreholes and 1 reservoir tank were analysed. The dominant cations were attributed to cation exchange processes as a coupled exchange of Na+ + K+ replacing Ca2+; and Na+ replacing Mg²+ ions in the rock-water interactions. The HCO3- anion is attributed to underlying rich carbonate rocks in the study area and chemical reactions between groundwater and silicate minerals. TDS ranged from 639.01 to 1 998.96 mg/L. The microbial levels as indicated by heterotrophic plate count (HPC) values exceed the limits imposed by the local Namibian and WHO drinking water regulations. The Piper diagrams showed a mixed water type of mainly HCO3- and SO4(2-)anions and Na+ and Ca2+ > Mg2+ cations. The study shows that the elemental composition of the groundwater is impacted significantly by primarily anthropogenic activities and secondarily geogenic processes. Based on the results of this study it is recommended that a buffer zone be created between human activities and production boreholes to avoid further groundwater contamination.

Resumen Esta es una investigación base en la que se planteó el objetivo de estimar el Índice Aproximado de Sostenibilidad (IAS) en La Paz, San Ramón, Costa Rica. Para recopilar datos se aplicó un censo habitacional entre agosto de 2016 y marzo de 2017. El resultado del IAS fue 0,7856. los resultados reflejaron que en ocho indicadores poseen condición como muy aceptable, tres indicadores resultaron aceptable, dos indicadores en condición regular y uno de los indicadores se encuentra en condición totalmente inaceptable. El parámetro social obtuvo el índice parcial más bajo con 0,583, los parámetros ambiental y económico comparten un valor de 0,875, mientras el parámetro institucional alcanzó 0,75. La investigación marca un parámetro de partida para futuros estudios que permitan monitorear la sostenibilidad en la zona.

Abstract This is a base investigation in which the objective of estimating the Approximate Sustainability Index (IAS) in La Paz, San Ramón, Costa Rica was set. To collect data, a housing census was applied between August 2016 and March 2017. The IAS result was 0.7856. The results reflected that eight indicators have a very acceptable condition, three indicators were acceptable, two indicators in a regular condition and one of the indicators is in a totally unacceptable condition. The social parameter obtained the lowest partial index with 0.583, the environmental and economic parameters share a value of 0.875, while the institutional parameter reached 0.75. The research marks a starting parameter for future studies that allow monitoring sustainability in the area.

ABSTRACT Objective Evaluate the consumer’s food environment in food retailers around public schools in the municipality of Governador Celso Ramos, state of Santa Catarina, in southern Brazil. Methods A survey was carried out in the surroundings of three public schools, from March to May 2022. Food retailers located in a pre-established 800m buffer zone were identified. A location system device recorded latitude and longitude. An audit of the establishments was performed using a specific validated instrument for auditing the consumer food environment (AUDITNOVA). These establishments were grouped into: Group 1 - predominantly selling fresh foods, Group 2 - mixed establishments, and Group 3 - predominantly selling ultra-processed foods. These establishments were assessed using a Consumer Food Environment Healthiness Score evaluation system. The data were analyzed using the statistical software Stata version 16.0. Results The study audited 21 establishments, 47.6% of which were small neighborhood food markets, 23.8% bakeries, 14.3% butchers/fishmongers, 9.5% grocery stores and 4.8% supermarkets. It was found that privately-owned vegetable markets had a higher availability of fresh and minimally processed food categories, while the lowest scores for this category were found in bakeries. Regarding ultra-processed foods, the most commonly found items were sugary beverages and candies, chocolates, and filled cookies. Conclusion More audit studies ought to be carried out in the surroundings of schools to broaden the understanding of the relationship between access, availability, prices and food advertisement in order to support the construction of strategies aimed at preventing obesity in the population. consumers s Ramos Catarina Brazil 2022 preestablished pre established m identified longitude AUDITNOVA. AUDITNOVA . (AUDITNOVA) into foods ultraprocessed ultra 160 16 0 16.0 476 47 6 47.6 238 23 8 23.8 bakeries 143 14 14.3 butchersfishmongers butchers fishmongers butchers/fishmongers 95 9 5 9.5 48 4 4.8 supermarkets privatelyowned privately owned categories candies chocolates cookies access population 202 (AUDITNOVA 16. 47. 23. 14. 9. 4. 20

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar o ambiente alimentar do consumidor em estabelecimentos de comercialização de alimentos no entorno de escolas públicas no município de Governador Celso Ramos, estado de Santa Catarina, no Sul do Brasil. Métodos Foi realizada, entre março e maio de 2022, no entorno de três escolas públicas, auditoria nos comércios varejistas localizados em uma zona pré-estabelecida de 800m. Um equipamento com sistema de localização realizou o registro da latitude e longitude. Esta auditoria foi realizada utilizando um instrumento validado próprio para auditoria do ambiente alimentar do consumidor (AUDITNOVA). Estes foram agrupados em Grupo 1 - com venda predominante de alimentos in natura; Grupo 2 - estabelecimentos mistos; Grupo 3 - com venda predominante de alimentos ultraprocessados. Os estabelecimentos foram avaliados por um sistema de avaliação de saudabilidade do ambiente alimentar do consumidor. Os dados foram analisados no programa estatístico Stata versão 16.0. Resultados O estudo auditou 21 estabelecimentos, sendo 47,6% mercados de bairro, 23,8% padarias, 14,3% açougues/peixarias, 9,5% sacolões/hortifrutis privados e 4,8% supermercados. Foi identificado que sacolões/hortifrutis privados apresentaram maior oferta de alimentos da categoria in natura e minimamente processados, enquanto os menores scores desta categoria de alimentos foram encontrados em padarias. Em relação aos alimentos ultraprocessados, os alimentos mais presentes foram bebidas açucaradas e balas, chocolates e biscoito recheado. Conclusão Sugere-se a realização de mais estudos de auditoria em comércios varejistas no entorno de escolas para ampliar a compreensão da relação entre o acesso, disponibilidade, preços e propagandas dos alimentos de modo a subsidiar a construção de estratégias que visem a prevenção da obesidade na população. Ramos Catarina Brasil 2022 préestabelecida pré estabelecida 800m m longitude AUDITNOVA. AUDITNOVA . (AUDITNOVA) mistos ultraprocessados 160 16 0 16.0 476 47 6 47,6 bairro 238 23 8 23,8 padarias 143 14 14,3 açouguespeixarias açougues peixarias açougues/peixarias 95 9 5 9,5 sacolõeshortifrutis sacolões hortifrutis 48 4 4,8 supermercados processados balas recheado Sugerese Sugere se acesso disponibilidade população 202 (AUDITNOVA 16. 47, 23, 14, 9, 4, 20

Abstract Forests and farms are often replaced by counter-urbanization, in which people move from urban to rural areas, causing the progressive growth of rural areas beyond cities. This article delves into the counterurbanization process in the peri-urban forest of Guadalajara, Mexico known as “Bosque La Primavera'' (BLP), discussing three key elements: (1) the absence of a forest buffer zone, (2) the shift from agricultural to industrial and tertiary activities, and (3) green tourism and neo-ruralism moving to the countryside. A mixed methodological approach based on the Theory of Change (ToC) was used. Data was collected from an organization implementing a forest conservation program in 2020 and 2021. Twelve interviews were conducted with brigade members and academics. From the counterurbanization perspective, this study illustrates how unregulated urbanization, land use changes, and green tourism have all contributed to the progressive degradation of forest reserves in the BLP. Due to the growing links between urban and rural areas, rural economies in peri-urban forests are gradually being replaced by industrial and tertiary practices, whereas tourist amenities require new services that alter rural living patterns. counterurbanization, counter urbanization counter-urbanization cities periurban peri Guadalajara Bosque Primavera Primavera' BLP, BLP , (BLP) elements 1 (1 zone 2 (2 activities 3 (3 neoruralism neo ruralism countryside ToC (ToC used 202 2021 academics perspective changes practices patterns (BLP ( 20

Resumo As florestas e as quintas são frequentemente substituídas pela contra-urbanização, em que as pessoas se deslocam das zonas urbanas para as zonas rurais, provocando o crescimento progressivo das zonas rurais para além das cidades. Este artigo analisa o processo de contra-urbanização na floresta periurbana de Guadalajara, México, conhecida como "Bosque La primavera'' (BLP), discutindo três elementos-chave: (1) a ausência de uma zona tampão florestal, (2) a mudança de actividades agrícolas para actividades industriais e terciárias, e (3) o turismo verde e o neo-ruralismo a deslocarem-se para o campo. Foi utilizada uma abordagem metodológica mista baseada na Teoria da Mudança (ToC). Os dados foram recolhidos numa organização que está a implementar um programa de conservação florestal em 2020 e 2021. Foram realizadas doze entrevistas com membros da brigada e académicos. Na perspetiva da contra-urbanização, este estudo ilustra como a urbanização desregulada, as mudanças no uso da terra e o turismo verde contribuíram para a degradação progressiva das reservas florestais na BLP. Devido às ligações crescentes entre as zonas urbanas e rurais, as economias rurais nas florestas periurbanas estão a ser gradualmente substituídas por práticas industriais e terciárias, enquanto as comodidades turísticas exigem novos serviços que alteram os padrões de vida rurais. contraurbanização, contraurbanização contra urbanização, cidades Guadalajara México Bosque primavera primavera' BLP, BLP , (BLP) elementoschave elementos chave elementos-chave 1 (1 2 (2 terciárias 3 (3 neoruralismo neo ruralismo deslocaremse deslocarem campo ToC. ToC . (ToC) 202 2021 académicos desregulada (BLP ( (ToC 20

Abstract Threats must be eliminated from the tropical mountain forest habitat of Dolok Sipirok Natural Reserve, which is home to the Tapanuli Orangutan (Pongo tapanuliensis). The threat arises from human-orangutan conflict resulting from the occupation of agricultural land and the opening of accessibility. The aim of this research is to identify areas and patterns of conflict between orangutans and humans in the vicinity of the Dolok Sipirok Nature Reserve. Data was gathered through community interviews and direct observation of the Tapanuli orangutan. The magnitude of community losses was determined by analyzing economic losses and crop destruction. The majority of conflicts were discovered in community fields that were about to be harvested. The main attraction for orangutans is fruit plants in those areas. These fruit trees are located in a roaming area and animal corridor. A buffer zone must be managed effectively to provide for the orangutan’s sustenance and nesting requirements. Reserve Pongo tapanuliensis. tapanuliensis . tapanuliensis) humanorangutan human orangutan accessibility destruction harvested corridor s requirements

ABSTRACT Geometric earthworks are evidence of ancient human activity in western Brazilian Amazonia. We used a review of existing and new data to map earthworks across 27,569 km2 of deforested areas in southwestern Amazonia using satellite imagery. We developed a conceptual basis for the classification of earthworks based on their structural characteristics using fuzzy sets. We recorded 1,279 structures with a distinctive core density zone. Most of the structures displayed geometric shapes, but they varied in construction accuracy. Geoglyphs accounted for 80% of all objects, with geographically variable shapes and enclosure areas. Other earthwork types included associated embankments, solitary embankments and mound sites. The abundance of earthworks provided evidence of strong pre-European human influence on the study area. A 10-km buffer around each earthwork included 75% of recent deforestation areas and 25.7% of standing forest, suggesting a significant potential for the presence of further earthworks in this ancient anthropogenic landscape and its possible far-reaching ecological legacy. The available radiocarbon data confirm a long-term anthropogenic impact in the study area, with ceremonial geoglyphs indicating activities over a thousand years old and other structures revealing more recent cultural transformations. 27569 27 569 27,56 km imagery sets 1279 1 279 1,27 zone accuracy 80 objects sites preEuropean pre European area 10km 10 75 257 25 7 25.7 forest farreaching far reaching legacy longterm long term transformations 2756 2 56 27,5 127 1,2 8 25. 275 5 27, 12 1,

RESUMO Obras de terra com formatos geométricos são antigas evidências de atividades humanas na Amazônia ocidental brasileira. Utilizamos uma revisão de dados já existentes e também dados novos para mapear obras de terra em 27.569 km2 de áreas desmatadas no sudoeste da Amazônia, usando imagens de satélite. Desenvolvemos uma base conceitual para a classificação dessas obras com base em suas características estruturais utilizando conjuntos fuzzy. Registramos 1.279 estruturas com uma zona de densidade central distinta. A maioria das estruturas apresenta formas geométricas, mas com níveis variáveis de precisão de construção. Os geoglifos representaram 80% de todas as estruturas, com formas e áreas delimitadas geograficamente variáveis. Outros tipos de obras incluíram aterros associados, aterros solitários e montículos. A abundância de terraplanagens forneceu evidências da forte influência humana pré-europeia na área de estudo. Uma zona tampão de 10 km em torno de cada obra de terra incluía 75% de áreas de desmatamento recente e 25,7% de floresta em pé, sugerindo um potencial significativo para a presença de mais terraplanagens nesta antiga paisagem antropogenica e no seu possível legado ecológico. Os dados radiocarbônicos disponíveis confirmam um impacto antropogênico de longo prazo na área de estudo, com geoglifos cerimoniais indicando atividades com mais de mil anos e outras estruturas revelando transformações culturais mais recentes. brasileira 27569 27 569 27.56 satélite fuzzy 1279 1 279 1.27 distinta geométricas construção 80 associados montículos préeuropeia pré europeia estudo 75 257 25 7 25,7 pé ecológico recentes 2756 2 56 27.5 127 1.2 8 25, 275 5 27. 12 1.

Resumen (Introducción): Los estudios de antropización de áreas naturales protegidas generalmente se realizan utilizando estudios de fauna, parcelas y otros indicadores. (Objetivo): Determinar el grado de antropización de un área natural protegida usando el índice de antropización de la cobertura vegetal, que toma como unidad de evaluación el paisaje físico-geográfico. (Metodología): La antropización se calculó a partir del índice de antropización de la cobertura vegetal, que evalúa cuantitativa y cualitativamente la modificación antrópica de los paisajes de un territorio, tomando como caso el área natural protegida Pico Azul-La Escalera, con el soporte de los paisajes físico-geográficos, lo que permite establecer su diferenciación en el territorio. (Resultados): Los paisajes altamente antropizados representan el 2.45% del territorio, son los más planos, y muestran un predominio de la antropización por actividades agrícolas; los paisajes categorizados como antropizados ocupan el 22.36% del territorio, están relacionados con relieves de baja pendiente y suelos óptimos para la agricultura; los paisajes con calificación media cubren el 24.46% del área y sirven de zona de amortiguamiento entre los paisajes más y menos antropizados; los paisajes de valores bajos de antropización representan el 42.13% y los no modificados el 8.60% del área y representan los paisajes menos accesibles con pendientes más pronunciadas y suelos menos fértiles. (Conclusiones): Esta propuesta es una opción confiable para diferenciar el grado de antropización de los paisajes y, en particular, para evaluar la modificación de la cobertura vegetal en un área natural protegida.

Abstract (Introduction): Anthropization studies of protected natural areas are generally carried out using fauna studies, grids, and other indicators. (Objective): To determine the degree of anthropization of a protected natural area using the vegetation cover anthropization index, which takes the physical-geographic landscape as the evaluation unit. (Methodology): Anthropization was calculated using the vegetation cover anthropization index, which quantitatively and qualitatively evaluates the anthropic modification of the landscapes of a territory, taking as a case the natural protected area Pico Azul-La Escalera, with the support of physical-geographic landscapes, which allows establishing their differentiation in the territory. (Results): Highly anthropized landscapes represent 2.45% of the territory, are the flattest, and show a predominance of anthropization by agricultural activities; landscapes categorized as anthropized occupy 22.36% of the territory, are related to low-sloping reliefs and optimal soils for agriculture; landscapes with a medium-level index rating cover 24.46% of the area and serve as a buffer zone between the most and least anthropized landscapes; landscapes showing low anthropization values represent 42.13% of the area, and unmodified landscapes represent 8.60% of the area and are the least accessible landscapes with steeper slopes and less fertile soils. (Conclusions): This proposal is a reliable option for differentiating the degree of anthropization of landscapes and, in particular, for assessing the modification of vegetation cover in a protected natural area.

Summary: The Reserve for Park San Rafael (Itapúa and Caazapá Departments) is one of the last large remnants of BAAPA and is the biggest conservation priority at the national level since it contains the country’s highest bird species richness. The objective was to analyze the richness and composition of birds in forest fragments and its areas of influence of soy agricultural areas at Reserve for Park San Rafael, utilizing the methods of MacKinnon 10 species list, during 8 periods between November 2017 and February 2020. 177 bird species, belonging to 47 families and 19 orders were registered. Of these, 114 have been registered in 27 lists for forest environments and 134 species in 69 lists in productive zones. 31 of these species are endemic to the Atlantic Forest of Alto Parana, including the vinaceous-breasted parrot Amazona vinacea (endangered at the international level) and the southern bristle tyrant Phylloscartes eximius (Near-Threatened). At the national level, 28 endemic species are threatened with extinction at the national level. Bird species exclusive to the forest zone and species exclusive to the productive zone were recorded, resulting in a 63.27% complementarity. Despite the changes in land use to which the study area is subjected, a great diversity of birds was recorded, highlighting the high number of endemic and threatened species at the national and international level, both in the sites sampled within the reserve. and its buffer zone. These data contribute to knowledge and highlight the importance of these remnants for the conservation of birds.

Resumen: La Reserva para Parque Nacional San Rafael (Departamento de Itapúa y Caazapá) es uno de los últimos remanentes grandes de BAAPA, y la mayor prioridad de conservación a nivel nacional, ya que contiene la mayor riqueza de aves del país. El objetivo fue analizar la riqueza y composición de aves en los fragmentos boscosos y sus áreas de influencia de los sitios con agricultura de soja de la Reserva para Parque Nacional San Rafael, utilizando la metodología de Listas de 10 especies de MacKinnon, en ocho períodos entre noviembre 2017 y febrero de 2020. Se identificaron 177 especies de aves pertenecientes a 47 Familias, y 19 Órdenes, de las cuales 114 han sido registradas en 27 listas en ambientes de bosques y 134 especies en 69 listas en la zona productiva. Del total de las especies, 31 son endémicas del Bosque Atlántico del Alto Paraná, incluyendo al Loro vinoso Amazona vinacea (en peligro de extinción a nivel mundial) y la Mosqueta Media Luna Phylloscartes eximius (Casi-Amenazada). A nivel nacional, 28 especies endémicas están amenazadas de extinción a nivel nacional. Se registraron especies de aves exclusivas para la zona de bosque, y especies exclusivas para la zona productiva, dando como resultado un 63,27 % de complementariedad. A pesar de los cambios de uso de tierra al cual se encuentra sometido el área de estudio, se registraron una gran diversidad de aves destacando el elevado número de especies endémicas y amenazadas a nivel nacional e internacional, tanto en los sitios muestreados dentro de la reserva y su zona de amortiguamiento. Estos datos contribuyen al conocimiento y realzan la importancia de estos remanentes para la conservación de las aves.

Resumen Introducción: Actualmente, la biodiversidad está administrada principalmente por áreas protegidas, pero la proximidad con las actividades humanas genera conflictos, los cuales están poco estudiados en los trópicos. Objetivo: Estimar el conflicto entre humanos y vida silvestre en la zona de amortiguamiento de la Reserva Biológica Alberto Manuel Brenes, San Ramón, Costa Rica. Métodos: Entrevistamos a los propietarios o administradores de 59 fincas. Resultados: Registramos 540 incidentes, en su mayoría con mamíferos (N=479); los coyotes (Canis latrans) mataron 1 074 animales en 183 ataques en 12 granjas. También registramos conflictos con jaguar, Panthera onca, puma, Puma concolor, ocelote, Leopardus pardalis y tigrillo, Leopardus wiedii, que depredaron 261 animales domésticos. También se reportaron otros mamíferos y serpientes, especialmente la terciopelo, Bothrops asper. En seis ocasiones, los hechos se produjeron a más de 500m de una vivienda; sin embargo, la mayoría estaban a 0-25m de una casa (media 398m). Los campesinos han sacrificado pumas, coyotes, mapaches y serpientes y no hubo un control coordinado de instituciones, ONG y comunidades. Conclusión: Los coyotes son los animales salvajes más comúnmente involucrados y se necesita un esfuerzo coordinado que incluya tanto a las organizaciones como a las comunidades.

Abstract Introduction: Currently, biodiversity is mainly managed by protected areas, but proximity with human activities results in conflicts, which are poorly studied in the tropics. Objective: To estimate human-wildlife conflict in the buffer zone of the Alberto Manuel Brenes Biological Reserve, San Ramón, Costa Rica. Methods: We interviewed the owners or managers of 59 farms. Results: We recorded 540 incidents, mostly with mammals (N=479); coyotes (Canis latrans) killed 1 074 animals in 183 attacks at 12 farms. We also recorded conflicts with jaguar, Panthera onca, puma, Puma concolor, ocelot, Leopardus pardalis, and margay, Leopardus wiedii, which preyed on 261 domestic animals. Other mammals and snakes were also reported, especially the Fer-de-lance, Bothrops asper. In six occasions, the incidents took place over 500m from a house; however, most were 0-25m from a house (mean 398m). The farmers have sacrificed pumas, coyotes, raccoons and snakes and there was not a coordinated control effort from institutions, NGOs and communities. Conclusion: Coyotes are the most common wild animals involved and there is need for a coordinated effort that includes both organizations and communities.

Resumo Os cães ferozes são caçadores bem organizados de ungulados em muitas partes do mundo, causando grandes danos à população de animais selvagens e, em última instância, ao ecossistema. No Paquistão, os impactos dos cães selvagens na vida selvagem ainda não foram documentados. Em um período de 15 anos (2006-2020), cães selvagens mataram centenas de markhor ameaçados no parque nacional Chitral gol (CGNP), Paquistão. Apesar da predação direta, outros impactos, incluindo distúrbios e competições com outros predadores naturais podem comprometer os esforços de conservação e manejo. A população de cães selvagens parece ter aumentado com o aumento dos locais de despejo pelas comunidades. Nossas descobertas sugerem que há necessidades urgentes para controlar a população de cães selvagens e erradicá-los da zona central do CGNP e das comunidades-tampão vizinhas. O abate convencional de cães deve ser combinado com técnicas modernas como castração e esterilização. As comunidades devem ser educadas sobre o meio ambiente limpo, o descarte adequado de resíduos domésticos e a conservação da biodiversidade.

Abstract Feral dogs are well-organized hunters of ungulates in many parts of the world, causing great damage to wildlife populations and ultimately to the ecosystem. In Pakistan, the impacts of feral dogs on the wildlife have not been documented yet. In a period of fifteen years (2006-2020), feral dogs have killed hundreds of threatened markhor in Chitral gol national park (CGNP), Pakistan. Despite direct predation other impacts including disturbance and competition with other natural predators, could compromise conservation and management efforts. The population of feral dogs seems to have been increased with the increase of dumping sites by communities. Our findings suggest that there are pressing needs of controlling the feral dogs population and eradicating them from the core zone of CGNP and surrounding buffer communities. Conventional culling of dogs should be coupled with modern techniques like castration and sterilization. Communities should be educated regarding the clean environment, proper disposal of home wastes and, biodiversity conservation.

ABSTRACT The institution of biological value areas through the creation of Natural Protected Areas is an essential tool for protecting the country’s environmental resources to face advanced anthropic development in natural areas, either to increase agriculture production or for economic growth. Environmental vulnerability studies combined with geotechnological tools have been vital to identifying the most vulnerable areas and consequently help Conservation Units protection. This study aimed to analyze environmental vulnerability at the buffer zone of Itabira Natural Monument (MONAI) in Cachoeiro de Itapemirim, Brazil. The necessary methodological steps for this study were as follows: a) Photointerpretation of land use; b) Anthropic variables selection; c) Application of Euclidean distance function in variables vector images; d) Application of fuzzy membership function in variables raster images; e) Application of Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP); and f) Spatial classification of environmental vulnerability around MONAI. Land use conflicts reveal a relevant presence of pasture areas, representing 49.80% of the buffer zone. This fact corroborates with its Euclidean distance value, which showed the lowest linear value, 836 meters. Eight anthropic variables have been incorporated, highlighting crops, urban areas, exposed soil and pasture. Jenks natural breaks defined five vulnerability classes. According to the results, 57.14% of the entire MONAI buffer zone is represented by the high and very high classes. The outdated law creation of MONAI and the need for a management plan result in a vulnerable buffer zone. The present study can support management plan formulation and assist MONAI’s buffer zone delimitation. countrys country s growth protection (MONAI Itapemirim Brazil follows b selection c images d e AHP (AHP) f 4980 49 80 49.80 83 meters incorporated crops classes results 5714 57 14 57.14 MONAIs delimitation (AHP 498 4 8 49.8 571 5 1 57.1 49. 57.

RESUMO A instituição de áreas de elevado valor biológico por meio da criação Unidades de Conservação (UC’s) tem se tornado importante instrumento de proteção aos recursos ambientais no país, frente ao desenfreado avanço antrópico sobre ambientes naturais. Os estudos de vulnerabilidade ambiental aliados à geotecnologia têm se mostrado uma relevante ferramenta na identificação de áreas mais vulneráveis, e, consequentemente, no gerenciamento e proteção das UC’s. Este trabalho objetivou analisar a vulnerabilidade ambiental no entorno do Monumento Natural do Itabira (MONAI), localizado no município de Cachoeiro de Itapemirim/ES, por meio de ferramentas geotecnológicas e inteligência artificial. As etapas metodológicas necessárias para este estudo foram: a) fotointerpretação do uso e ocupação da terra; b) seleção das variáveis antrópicas; c) aplicação da distância euclidiana nos vetores representativos das variáveis; d) aplicação da lógica Fuzzy nas matrizes das variáveis de distância euclidiana; e) aplicação do método Hierárquico Analítico (AHP); e f) espacialização das áreas de vulnerabilidade ambiental no entorno do MONAI. Os conflitos de uso e ocupação da terra demonstraram presença majoritária de pastagens, representando 49,80% da área de estudo, corroborando com o cálculo da distância euclidiana que atribuiu a esta variável o menor valor linear em relação à UC, 836 metros. Dentre as 5 classes de vulnerabilidade definidas pelas quebras naturais de Jenks, observou-se que 57,14% do entorno do MONAI é representado pelas classes alta e muito alta. A desatualização da lei de criação do MONAI e a inexistência de plano de manejo implicam no mapeamento de uma zona de amortecimento majoritariamente vulnerável ambientalmente. O presente estudo pode subsidiar a elaboração do plano de manejo e a demarcação da zona de amortecimento do MONAI. UCs UC s (UC’s país vulneráveis consequentemente UCs. s. UC’s MONAI, , (MONAI) ItapemirimES Itapemirim ES Itapemirim/ES artificial foram b antrópicas c d AHP (AHP) f pastagens 4980 49 80 49,80 83 metros Jenks observouse observou 5714 57 14 57,14 ambientalmente (MONAI (AHP 498 4 8 49,8 571 1 57,1 49, 57,

Abstract Conservation units are specially protected territorial spaces whose primary goals are to preserve biodiversity and natural resources. Thus, this paper aims to investigate the spatial-temporal dynamics of land-use and land-cover classes and hotspots in a conservation unit in the Caatinga region. We assessed land-use and land-cover classes based on Mapbiomas’s data from 2002 to 2021. Then, we analyzed the hot spots made available by Programa Queimadas database, for the rainy and dry seasons, as well as data recorded on a yearly basis between 2002 and 2021. The class of agricultural activities in the buffer zone has increased; changes in the hotspots’ distribution pattern were observed, such as displacement from the Park’s central area towards the buffer zone’s. Furthermore, 12 hotspots tended to increase in the dry season, over the 20-year assessment process. Insights into the growth of agriculture and changing hotspot patterns assist in creating more effective conservation strategies. resources Thus spatialtemporal spatial temporal landuse land use landcover cover region Mapbiomass Mapbiomas s 200 2021 Then database seasons increased observed Parks Park zones. zones s. zone’s Furthermore 1 season 20year year 20 process strategies 202 2

Abstract The Atlantic Forest is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. The Pico do Marumbi State Park is home to an evergreen ombrophilous forest with areas of transition to the Araucaria moist forest. In spite of the high diversity of life forms in the area, there are few studies of understory herbaceous plants. The present study reports the rediscovery for Brazil and the first record for Paraná state of an extremely rare species of Thismiaceae, Thismia caudata. The only record so far has been for the Rio de Janeiro state. In February 2021, T. caudata was discovered with fruit and flower. We also present other records of achlorophyllous herbaceous species that were occasionally found near the rediscovered Thismiaceae. In total, eight species belonging to five families are reported with descriptions of the morphology and natural environment, as well as phenological aspects. These are T. caudata, T. cordata, and T. panamensis (Thismiaceae); Langsdorffia hypogaea (Balanophoraceae); Voyria aphylla (Gentianaceae); Apteria aphylla and Gymnosiphon tenellus (Burmanniaceae); Triuris hyalina (Triuridaceae). In addition, we present the very first photographs of T. caudata. worlds world s hotspots area plants Thismiaceae 2021 T flower total environment aspects cordata (Thismiaceae) Balanophoraceae (Balanophoraceae) Gentianaceae (Gentianaceae) Burmanniaceae (Burmanniaceae) Triuridaceae. Triuridaceae . (Triuridaceae) addition 202 (Thismiaceae (Balanophoraceae (Gentianaceae (Burmanniaceae (Triuridaceae 20 2

Resumo A floresta Atlântica costeira é um dos hotspot de biodiversidade no nível mundial. O Parque estadual Pico do Marumbi apresenta floresta ombrófila sempre verde com áreas de transição com a floresta com araucária. A alta diversidade de formas de vida na área apresenta poucos estudos das plantas herbáceas do sub-bosque. Este estudo reporta o redescobrimento para o Brasil e o primeiro registro para o estado do Paraná de uma espécie de Thismiaceae extremamente rara, Thismia caudata. O único registro até agora foi para o estado de Rio de Janeiro. Em fevereiro de 2021 T. caudata foi descoberta com fruto e flor. Também apresentamos outras espécies herbáceas aclorofiladas registradas e as vezes, acompanhantes da Thismiaceae redescoberta. No total oito espécies pertencentes a cinco famílias são reportadas com descrição da morfologia e do ambiente natural como de aspectos fenológicos. Essas foram: T.caudata, T. cordata e T. panamensis (Thismiaceae); Langsdorffia hypogaea (Balanophoraceae); Voyria aphylla (Gentianaceae); Apteria aphylla e Gymnosiphon tenellus (Burmanniaceae) e Triuris hyalina (Triuridaceae). Apresentamos as primeiríssimas fotografias de T. caudata. mundial araucária subbosque. subbosque sub bosque. bosque sub-bosque rara Janeiro 202 T flor vezes redescoberta fenológicos foram Tcaudata T.caudata (Thismiaceae) Balanophoraceae (Balanophoraceae) Gentianaceae (Gentianaceae) Burmanniaceae (Burmanniaceae Triuridaceae. Triuridaceae . (Triuridaceae) 20 (Thismiaceae (Balanophoraceae (Gentianaceae (Triuridaceae 2

Resumen: En este artículo se presentan los trabajos de campo arqueológico, realizados en el pozo de agua del sitio La Chacra, ubicado en la localidad de Santa Ana, departamento Candelaria, provincia de Misiones. Sus relictos están emplazados en la zona periférica de la antigua reducción jesuita de guaraníes de Santa Ana, inscripta en la Lista del Patrimonio Mundial de la UNESCO, por lo que forman parte de la zona de amortiguamiento. El trabajo fue ejecutado a comienzos de 2020 como paso previo a una intervención de arquitectura y restauración. En esta presentación se detallan los aspectos técnicos y metodológicos de la excavación, junto con los principales resultados. La ejecución de las tareas proyectadas aseguró la conservación de una estructura arqueológica inserta en un contexto de alto valor patrimonial. Al mismo tiempo, el estudio de sus características constituye un aporte al conocimiento del sistema constructivo y del manejo del agua implementado en las misiones jesuíticas.

Abstract: This paper describes the archaeological fieldworks carried out in a well of La Chacra site, placed in the village of Santa Ana, Candelaria department, province of Misiones. These remains are located in the suburbs of the Guarani-Jesuit mission of Santa Ana. Since the latter is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List, La Chacra is part of its buffer zone. The fieldwork was executed at the beginning of 2020 and it was the previous step of an architecture and restoration work. In this article, we describe the technical and methodological aspects of the excavation and the main results obtained. The activities ensured the conservation of an archaeological structure in a context of great value. Likewise, the study of the characteristics of the well contributes to the knowledge concerning the construction systems used in the Jesuit missions, as well as the water management systems.