Conservation MDPI

🌿Evaluation of High Andean Plant Species in the Absorption and Translocation of Heavy Metals in the Moorlands of Reten IchuBamba, Ecuador

https://www.mdpi.com/2673-7159/5/3/34

Keywords: ; ; ; hyperaccumulative;

🧐Abstract: Phytoremediation is based on the use of plants to decontaminate water and soil. In this work, the capacity of high Andean vegetation in the absorption and translocation of heavy metals was analyzed. Species were identified to analyze the presence of metals in roots, stems, and leaves by spectrometry. The translocation factor was determined and analyzed by means of pattern clusters. Based on the floristic inventory, the dominance of the Poaceae and Asteraceae families was determined, and 12 plant species with a high importance value were selected. According to the ICP-AES, mercury (951.07 mg/kg) was determined in the roots of Lachemilla orbiculata, and chromium (21.88 mg/kg) in Carex bonplandii. Arsenic (2.79 mg/kg) was detected as being significantly higher than the values recorded in lowland plants. Cadmium mobility was high in all species, reaching higher values in Baccharis salicifolia (86.28%) and Calamagrostis intermedia (37.16%). Rumex acetocella accumulated lead in leaves (9.27%), while Taraxacum officinale (1.20%) and Calamagrostis intermedia (1.20%) accumulated silicon. Stabilization of chromium, mercury, and sodium was determined in the roots without translocation to higher organs. Finally, cluster analysis showed physiological interactions between metals as a toxicity mitigation mechanism affecting mobility. These findings suggest that they are hyperaccumulator species.

Evaluation of High Andean Plant Species in the Absorption and Translocation of Heavy Metals in the Moorlands of Reten IchuBamba, Ecuador Phytoremediation is based on the use of plants to decontaminate water and soil. In this work, the capacity of high Andean vegetation in the absorption and translocation of heavy metals was analyzed. Species were identified to analyze the presence of metals in roots, stems, and leaves by spectrometry...

🎉 We are pleased to announce that Dr. David Pastor Escuredo, PhD will join us as a Committee Member for Session 5. Natural Hazards and Risk.

🎉 We are pleased to announce that Dr. David Pastor Escuredo, PhD will join us as a Committee Member for Session 5. Natural Hazards and Risk.

⏭️ Dr. David Pastor-Escuredo is a Ph.D. from UPM in Artificial Intelligence and Complex Systems working with CNRS and UCSD. He did his postdoc at CNRS. He was a data-driven sustainability pioneer working with several United Nations agencies and BID. He has worked as an advisor for UN Global Pulse Jakarta and also as lead data scientist for UNICEF and UNHCR. He led the digital innovation ecosystem at UPM for itdUPM, working with Climate-KIC and MIT. Currently, he leads Digital Innovation and AI projects at UCL and UPM. He is an expert on the ITU’s Early Warning for All and U4SSC initiatives.

👉 Free Registration at: https://sciforum.net/event/IOCEA2026?subscribe§ion=

🔥Mapping Research Trends on Fire and Invasive Plant Species in Grassland Restoration: A Bibliometric Review

https://reurl.cc/DxVlVR

Keywords: fire ecology; invasive plant species; fire-invasion dynamics; species traits; post-fire recovery; ecological resilience; interdisciplinary research

🧐Abstract: Fire and invasive plant species interactions are critical drivers of biodiversity loss and ecological change in grassland ecosystems worldwide. However, research efforts on this topic are often fragmented, regionally based, and lack synthesis across disciplines. This study aims to map the intellectual structure, collaboration networks, thematic focus, and knowledge gaps in research on fire-invasive species interactions in grassland restoration. A systematic bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Web of Science Core Collection, focusing on peer-reviewed English-language articles published between 1990 and 2024. The search strategy targeted studies addressing fire regimes and invasive plant species in grassland ecosystems, using co-authorship, co-occurrence and thematic clustering analyses to reveal collaboration patterns and research trends. The results highlight a concentration of publications in key ecological journals, with a dominant contribution from institutions in the Global North, through growing representation from the Global South, particularly South Africa, is evident. Thematic clusters are centred on biological invasions, fire regimes, species traits and ecosystem resilience, while long-term post-fire recovery and studies from underrepresented regions remain critical knowledge gaps. This synthesis emphasises the need for interdisciplinary, regionally inclusive and policy-aligned research to inform effective grassland restoration strategies in the context of fire and invasive species challenges.

Mapping Research Trends on Fire and Invasive Plant Species in Grassland Restoration: A Bibliometric Review Fire and invasive plant species interactions are critical drivers of biodiversity loss and ecological change in grassland ecosystems worldwide. However, research efforts on this topic are often fragmented, regionally based, and lack synthesis across disciplines. This study aims to map the intellectu...

🦜Soundscapes: Species Richness and Community Composition of Neotropical Atlantic Forest Avifauna

https://www.mdpi.com/2673-7159/5/3/48

Keywords: ; species richness; Atlantic Forest; monitoring

🧐Abstract: As tropical forests become increasingly vulnerable to land use changes, fragmentation, and climate shifts, efforts to minimise species loss are essential. Prevalent in most environments and having complex vocalisations, birds are key indicators of ecosystem health and a good model for acoustic monitoring. In Brazil, the Caparaó National Park (CNP) is a preserved remnant of the Atlantic Forest with great avian endemism. Despite having >600 species, limited research has utilised bioacoustics for species assessment. This study employed bioacoustics to examine soundscapes and community composition at two CNP locations—one with ombrophilous montane forest (OMF) and another with semi-deciduous seasonal forest (SSF). Four SongMeters were deployed, recording bird choruses from 08:00 to 11:00 a.m. for two months. Soundscape profiles and species composition were characterised using Raven Pro. Acoustic indices assessed correlations with avian species richness, and sites were compared using the Mann–Whitney U test. Ninety-eight species were detected, and species richness was greater within SSF. While acoustic indices had little impact on richness, they identified differing soundscapes: more ambient noise in OMF, and gunshots detected in SSF. The results indicate that bioacoustics can aid monitoring strategies. Given the presence of rare species and illegal activities, more studies are needed to support the conservation of birds in this critical environment.

Soundscapes: Species Richness and Community Composition of Neotropical Atlantic Forest Avifauna As tropical forests become increasingly vulnerable to land use changes, fragmentation, and climate shifts, efforts to minimise species loss are essential. Prevalent in most environments and having complex vocalisations, birds are key indicators of ecosystem health and a good model for acoustic monit...

🌼Species Conservation Dependence on a Reliable Taxonomy as Emphasized by the Extinction Risk Assessment of Grindelia atlantica (Asteraceae: Astereae)

https://www.mdpi.com/2673-7159/5/3/36

Keywords: ; compositae; ; endemic species; ; extinction; ; habitat loss; invasive species; pampa

🧐Abstract: Accurate taxonomy is fundamental for assessing extinction risks and implementing conservation strategies. We evaluated the extinction risk of Grindelia atlantica (Asteraceae), endemic to southern Brazil, using the IUCN criteria, and comparing three scenarios of taxonomic accuracy and data availability. Herbaria records and field surveys confirmed the historical existence of five records and currently only two remaining, isolated populations, totaling 633 individuals (513 in Pelotas and Rio Grande; 120 in Jaguarão). Habitat loss and invasive species are the primary threats. Analyses resulted in an Extent of Occurrence of 475.832 km2 and an Area of Occupancy of 36 km2. These findings, coupled with significant population decline, justify the classification as Critically Endangered. The results emphasize the critical role of reliable taxonomy in conservation biology. They demonstrate the impact of a few errors on extinction risk assessments, which can unfold in the misallocation of resources or insufficient protection. This is critical, particularly for endemic species like G. atlantica in the threatened Pampas, one of Brazil’s most degraded biomes and the least represented in preserves. The creation of a conservation unit is proposed as an urgent measure to ensure the survival of this species and its habitat, benefiting other endemic and rare threatened animal and plant species.

Species Conservation Dependence on a Reliable Taxonomy as Emphasized by the Extinction Risk Assessment of Grindelia atlantica (Asteraceae: Astereae) Accurate taxonomy is fundamental for assessing extinction risks and implementing conservation strategies. We evaluated the extinction risk of Grindelia atlantica (Asteraceae), endemic to southern Brazil, using the IUCN criteria, and comparing three scenarios of taxonomic accuracy and data availabili...

🌲Community Well-Being and Willingness as Key Drivers of Watershed Conservation in Mt. Magdiwata Watershed and Forest Reserve in Northeastern Mindanao, Philippines

https://reurl.cc/M2EbpL

Keywords: conservation; welfare; social participation; ecosystem service; integrated analysis

🧐Abstract: Social dimensions of environmental conservation are crucial for the long-term success of watershed conservation efforts. This study investigates the intricate relationship between community well-being, socioeconomic factors, and watershed conservation efforts in rural areas, particularly in the Mt. Magdiwata Watershed Forest Reserve (MMWFR) in the Philippines. Using the Structural Equation Model (SEM), the findings highlight that the Quality of Life (QoL, R2 = 0.55) is the most influential latent factor shaping local attitudes toward conservation, with the provision of safe evacuation areas and access to green spaces emerging as key priorities. Community willingness (R2 = 0.39) to participate in watershed conservation is significantly influenced by socio-economic demographics (R2 = 0.31), including civil status, household size, and agricultural dependence, highlighting the need for context-specific conservation strategies. The study also identifies water provisioning (R2 = 0.14) as a significant motivator for participation, with accessibility and convenience being more critical than cost in driving community involvement. While the influence of awareness of local environmental policies is relatively low (R2 = 0.08), it remains a crucial factor for fostering long-term behavioral change and policy support. The research highlights the importance of integrating socio-economic realities, improving service delivery, and increasing community awareness to develop effective and sustainable watershed conservation programs. Policy frameworks must integrate these relationships in ongoing advocacy for the efficient conservation of MMWFR as a protected area in the Philippine countryside.

Community Well-Being and Willingness as Key Drivers of Watershed Conservation in Mt. Magdiwata Watershed and Forest Reserve in Northeastern Mindanao, Philippines Social dimensions of environmental conservation are crucial for the long-term success of watershed conservation efforts. This study investigates the intricate relationship between community well-being, socioeconomic factors, and watershed conservation efforts in rural areas, particularly in the Mt.....

💥NEW CiteScore in 2025 is 3.5💥

Conservation INCREASED its CiteScore in 2025

🤛We appreciate the scholars' continued support. We look forward to future cooperation and to making new history together!

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🌱Assessment of the Impact of Climate Change on the Potential Distributions of Melliferous Plant Species on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Implications for Conservation Planning

https://www.mdpi.com/2673-7159/5/3/44

Keywords: ; potential distribution; ; species distribution model; species loss

🧐Abstract: Climate change is altering environmental conditions, which can, in turn, change the geographic distribution and flowering patterns of plant species, affecting both the plants themselves and their pollinators. The responses of melliferous plant species to climate change in southeastern Mexico are poorly understood, which hinders an accurate assessment of their vulnerability and the resulting ecological impacts. As understanding the mechanisms that influence the distribution and susceptibility of these species is essential, the present study examined how climate change affects their potential distribution areas and spatial distribution patterns. This information will serve as reference data for the implementation of conservation strategies and inform the selection of species for reforestation. Ecological niche models were used to estimate the potential distributions of 92 melliferous species under both current environmental conditions and two climate change scenarios projected for the 2041–2060 period (SSP245 and SSP585). Changes in distribution patterns were then assessed by evaluating the range size of each species and analyzing the spatio–temporal trends in species richness. The results revealed that suitable habitats shifted for approximately 80% of melliferous species, with more significant habitat loss observed under the SSP585 scenario than under SSP245. Although a significant decrease in melliferous plant species richness was expected in future scenarios, richness was slightly higher (by 10% for SSP245 and 5% for SSP585) than that observed under current environmental conditions. Under SSP245 conditions, species richness areas expanded to encompass almost the entire region, although this contrasted drastically with the SSP585 scenario, where areas with the highest concentration of species richness contracted significantly and areas with low species richness expanded. These projections are of potential use for conservationists and environmental management authorities, providing crucial insights into the future distributions of several melliferous plant species in the region, the potential impacts of climate change on their habitats, and the vulnerability of threatened species to changing climatic conditions.

Assessment of the Impact of Climate Change on the Potential Distributions of Melliferous Plant Species on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico: Implications for Conservation Planning Climate change is altering environmental conditions, which can, in turn, change the geographic distribution and flowering patterns of plant species, affecting both the plants themselves and their pollinators. The responses of melliferous plant species to climate change in southeastern Mexico are poo...

🫒Prediction of Potential Habitat Distributions and Climate Change Impacts on Six Carex L. Species of Conservation Concern in Canada

https://reurl.cc/9WkvZO

Keywords: Carex; species distribution; MaxEnt modeling; habitat suitability; climate change; biodiversity conservation

Abstract: Climate change is increasingly altering ecosystems around the world and threatening biodiversity, especially species with narrow distribution ranges and a dependency on dedicated conservation practices. In Saskatchewan, Canada, the ecological significance of the genus sedge (Carex L.) from the Cyperaceae family is well recognized, yet spatially explicit forecasts of its habitats under future climate scenarios remain absent, creating a major obstacle to forward-looking conservation strategies. This study assesses the current and future habitat suitability of six sedges, including three nationally at-risk species (C. assiniboinensis, C. saximontana, C. tetanica) and three provincially rare species (C. glacialis, C. granularis, C. supina subsp. spaniocarpa). We applied the MaxEnt algorithm to model the distributions of those Carex species of conservation concern using 20 environmental predictors (19 bioclimatic variables and elevation) under baseline climate (1970–2000) and projected future scenarios for the 2030s and 2050s using SSP245 and SSP585 emission pathways. We optimized and validated models with the ENMeval package to enhance predictive reliability. Model accuracy was high (AUC = 0.88–0.99) and the results revealed a diversity of species responses: C. assiniboinensis and C. tetanica are projected to expand their suitable habitat, while C. saximontana is expected to lose high suitability areas. The distributions of C. glacialis and C. supina subsp. spaniocarpa remain restricted and relatively stable across scenarios. C. granularis is projected to have dynamic range shifts, particularly under the high-emission SSP585 scenario. Temperature-related variables were consistently the most influential predictors. These results provide critical insights into the potential impacts of climate change on Carex species of conservation concern in Canada and offer valuable guidance for prioritizing adaptive conservation planning and proactive habitat management. The diversity of species responses emphasizes the necessity of tailored conservation approaches rather than a one-size-fits-all strategy.

Prediction of Potential Habitat Distributions and Climate Change Impacts on Six Carex L. Species of Conservation Concern in Canada Climate change is increasingly altering ecosystems around the world and threatening biodiversity, especially species with narrow distribution ranges and a dependency on dedicated conservation practices. In Saskatchewan, Canada, the ecological significance of the genus sedge (Carex L.) from the Cyper...

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