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The paper identifies the links between transnational municipal networks and international agreements in the environmental arena. It is taken for granted that transnational municipal networks support global environmental action and the process of sustainable development, in particular giving access to resources, with technical support and knowledge, but to what extent international agreements such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Paris Agreement, or the Convention on Biological Diversity guide the action of these networks? The research resorts to content analysis to examine the goals, mission, and published documents of two networks in particular, ICLEI and Mercosur, in the search for clear connections with the intergovernmental level. The paper contributes to the understanding of the role of transnational municipal networks in environmental governance, identifying through abductive reasoning the diffusion of norm from the international to the local level and underlining the importance of the role of international, national and local actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Since the beginning of its republican life, the development of biological sciences in Costa Rica has been strongly influenced by hundreds of foreign naturalists and scientists who have carried out exploration, research, and publication activities in relation to its biodiversity. Objective: To better understand their contributions, in this paper we take an historical tour, with emphasis on the last century and a half, regarding the motivations that attracted these people to Costa Rica, as well as their specific scientific contributions. Methods: Six criteria were followed to address this issue: a) whether they were residents or itinerants; b) if they had a frequent relationship with Costa Rica; c) if they collected specimens; d) the type of publication; and e) whether to implement teaching or institutional management. Results: Therefore, the information is organized into six large sections, structured chronologically as follows: the first inventories of the biodiversity of Costa Rica (1513-1842), the recognition of biological sciences in Costa Rican culture (1839-1848), the insertion of biological sciences in Costa Rican culture (1854-1886), the institutionalization of the biological sciences in Costa Rica (1886-1900), Costa Rica as a mecca for biological explorations (1900-1957), and the training of professionals in biological sciences (1940-2021). Conclusion: This periodization allows us to contextualize the contributions of those naturalists or scientists in time, as well as to better visualize the economic, social and political events and circumstances that conditioned their scientific work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The persistently high rate of failure in development projects involving local communities in the Peruvian Amazon over recent decades has not prevented the recurrence of these same mistakes year after year, resulting in significant social, environmental, and economic impacts, despite claims of 'sustainability' and 'inclusivity' by many. This paper analyses the factors contributing to this failure, with a particular focus on the lack of understanding of the Amazonian reality and the absence of environmental and cultural relevance in development models imported from other regions. As an alternative approach, we propose the promotion of bio-entrepreneurship initiatives led by families and community interest groups in the Amazonian communities. These initiatives should preferably involve non-timber forest resources, in alignment with the 'forest-oriented' profile of traditional Amazonian societies. Additionally, the application of culturally pertinent technologies and other solutions is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orchard is the place where a colossal diversity of food, medicinal plants, condiment, flowers, and wood are cultivated. Based on the orographic conditions, climates, and cultural dynamics of each region, related, farming knowledge is objectified. This paper analyzes the orchard territorial scale in Figueroa, Cauca, social scenario in which agricultural praxis is carried out, which articulates conservation and resistance practices, carried out day-to-day. The method of research is ethnographic, based on the role of ethnographer as assistant-companion in the orchard, and the use of techniques such as participant observation, direct interviews, and ethnographic interviews. Based on the field work, the orchard is identified as a biodiverse place, where there is a complex network of actions and thoughts, whose core axis is the defense of nature and territory, that is, life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural activity increases productivity and profitability while increasing environmental costs. However, if the sustainability of ecosystems is altered, they will become degraded systems and will eventually stop providing services. This insufficiency will generate a reduction in the inherent capacity of ecosystems to sustain not only economic activity but also other human activities. The aim of this paper is to assess the incidence of agriculturization on the provision of ecosystem services in the Environmental Units of Tandil, for the periods 1989-2004 and 2004-2019. Sustainability indicators adapted from the AgroEcoIndex Software were used to determine which are the landscape areas where the application of criteria related to environmental management is crucial. In particular, the state of provision of biodiversity conservation services and the quality of soil and water is assessed. The indicators used show a worsening in the provision of these services by 29% and 11.48% accordingly in the period under study. It is essential to determine priority conservation areas, to incorporate good agricultural practices and to diversify control techniques beyond exclusively chemical control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Laportea aestuans (Urticaceae) is an herb possibly native to Madagascar (Africa) and widely distributed in the tropics and subtropics of the world. In the Americas, it have been reported as a weed from southern United States of America and throughout Central America to South America in Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Colombia, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil. The aim of this paper was to report the presence of L. aestuans in Argentina for the first time. M&M: For the morphological description and illustrations, live plants from our collections were studied in addition to other herbarium specimens. Our specimens were deposited in the Herbarium LIL. Type and non-type specimens preserved in BR, COL, K, LINN and the original description were analyzed. Results: A morphological description of the species is provided together with illustrations, photographs and a key to differentiate Laportea from the other genera of Urticaceae present in Argentina. Conclusions: The presence of L. aestuans in Argentina is recorded for the first time. According to previous research, it is a species that exhibits a potentially invasive behavior, so there is the possibility that it may establish itself as a weed in natural environments and cause detrimental impacts on biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illegal wildlife trafficking has negative effects on biodiversity conservation at both global and local scale. Therefore, the establishment of appropriate conservation measures requires local studies that quantify this problem. The aim of this paper is to quantify and characterize the species of birds and mammals in the period 2016-2017, at Valle Alto Wildlife Rescue Center and Wildlife Refuge (Manabí, Ecuador). The study showed that 212 specimens belonging to 41 different species were confiscated. More birds than mammals were confiscated, and a greater proportion of birds were included in a national and international threat category. A clear preference for primates, parrots and squirrels was found. Furthermore, the presence of species with a distribution range outside the study area revealed the existence of the transportation of species from other parts of the country. Although these data are only a sample of what is actually trafficked in the country, they provide an approach of the type of species that are illegally trafficked in this biodiversity hotspot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Environmental compensation is a technical-legal instrument of environmental management used to offset damage due to non-reversible and unavoidable impacts. Usually, offset regulations are included in national environmental legislations. This paper summarizes environmental compensation legislation in Costa Rica, a country with a recognized conservation tradition and environmental awareness. Our goal is to describe how compensation is formulated in that country and identify possible regulations gaps. Methods: We carried out a systematic review of environmental legislation through the Costa Rican Legal Information System (http://www.pgrweb.go.cr/scij/avanzada_pgr.aspx), considering both regulations and pronouncements on compensation measures and mitigation. Results: The Political Constitution of Costa Rica recognizes a healthy environment as a fundamental right for all citizens. At least seven laws dealing with environmental issues and their respective regulations are currently enforced. This bulky legislation aims to protect natural resources by regulating their use and creating an assemblage of protected wild areas. However, the legislation is somewhat repetitive and open to interpretation, facilitating confusion. Actions requiring compensation are regulated in a general way, making it difficult to establish when and how to apply them. In addition, compensation is considered based on when the damage is identified and not on its level of environmental impact. Furthermore, the regulations do not make explicit the principles and goals that support the compensatory measures or how they should be carried out, briefly mentioning some actions that do not ensure that the net environmental loss is zero. Conclusions: This review reveals the need to standardize the mechanisms to determine compensatory measures at the regulatory level, also analyzing the strategies that will be followed to ensure proportionality and ecological equivalence. The legislation must emphasize the importance of compensation as a positive practice, which must be incorporated within the guidelines of the Environmental Impact Study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Coffee is a highly mycotrophic plant, its interaction with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi has been studied among different tropical countries. The majority of the published works indicates that coffee is benefited from the mycorrhizal association, where the AMF confers protection against pathogens and diseases, increases water absorption, as well as it increases the adaptation of the plant at transplant from nurseries to the main plantation. Objective: A review was made where we summarized and analyze the research reports of AMF with coffee from at least the past 10 years, focused on AMF global species distribution, nutritional benefits of the association and interaction with pathogens. Methods: We retrieved available bibliographic data from coffee producer countries in public databases. We considered published works from 2000 to 2019, nevertheless, we included classic papers on the topic, outside that period, mainly the ones performed in Brazil since 1986. We organized the number of reported species per country, we look for synonyms, grouped them by family, genera and species. The reports that only reported genera or where ambiguous were used as reference but not considered for the final analysis. We summarized the reports of the benefits of the AMF interaction in coffee, as well as pathogen tolerance. Results: The collected data shows that there are more than 100 AMF species associated with coffee, which represents more than a third part of the total of reported species worldwide. We found that Colombia has the highest richness, but it also has the highest number of published reports. Conclusions: This information shows the benefits of the incorporation of AMF to coffee plantation programs, because these fungi are a key element in coffee plant nutrition, nevertheless, the coffee variety should be considered when introducing AMF, as not all associations has been efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reflects on the normative design, which regulates research in Colombia and the practices of researchers from an ethical approach, by addressing critical issues in the health sciences, social sciences, and environmental disciplines, to conclude that it is necessary to strengthen state control in these issues, the updating of the regulations and greater training of researchers and members of Ethics Committees in research, especially in the protection of participants, animal care, conflicts of interest, the management of communities, and vulnerable groups, community protocols, informed consent, prior consultation, biodiversity care, and access to genetic resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present paper is to introduce students to tree-thinking through a ludic activity. Phylogenetic trees are the appropriate way to explain biodiversity under the theoretical framework of current evolutionary hypothesis and they should take a central place in public understanding of evolution. Misinterpretation of phylogenies plus the unavailability of didactic material in Spanish for teachers ends up in the reproduction of misunderstandings on the evolutionary theory. The combination of these errors with epistemological problems of evolutionary theories learning generates even more confusion in these subjects. The ludic activity as a learning process provides powerful tools when it comes to acquiring concepts that require abstraction in contents. Educational natural science games, both classical and modern approaches as Game-based learning theory, provide a sense of achievement to players/apprentices and they improve knowledge acquisition. In this context, the activity proposed here invites students to think under the scientific method and it allows them to assimilate abstract concepts by the resolution of evolutionary riddles. This activity gives the concepts to introduce scholars to the study of evolutionary processes, and the diversity of life on Earth under the current educational paradigms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the New Rurality approach as conceptual framework, this paper analized the participative and deliberative process of developing a Proyecto Educativo Institucional (PEI) (Institutional Educative Plan) in a rural school in Tranapuente, Southern Chile. This research uses a qualitative design to study the relation between the school of Tranapuente and the rural communities where the school is located, describing the products of the process: Mission and vision of the school, main curricular areas (diversity, intercultural, relation school community and participative management of the schools). Finally, this paper analyzes how these products are conditions to rebuild the purpose and meanings of the school with the final purpose of improve curriculum and intercultural learning of the students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper summarizes a range of experiences that when applied allow the identification and analysis of definitions, structures, dimensions-scales and key processes for the design of agro-ecological with the objective to drive the analyzes towards understanding of process that promote an important ecological, social and economic functionality. The theoretical framework-methodological built is provenances from agro ecological experiences review of agroecosystems that conserve natural resource. From the experiences analysis, it suggests that, in the context of sustainable agriculture, the agro ecological practices have evolved as a result of the local experiences of individual farmers and farmer's associations, and territorial development projects, with different territorial scale and strategist to the implementation. Based on productive activities on the agro ecological approach, was summarized indicators of functionality as well as, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem services, productivity, and ecological net at landscape, to reach ecological, social and economic objectives, in scales as farm, watershed, and landscape. It is under this premise that, we conclude that at varying degrees, these systems serve to integrate different approaches on the conservation of nature and human development thanks to the fact that their dynamic is determined by natural and social elements with multiple contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although being one of the most elusive reptiles in Mexico, Beaded Lizards are also one of the most famous, due to some biological peculiarities as the presence of venom glands and its colorful aspect. In this paper we gathered scientific literature about one of the mythic species inhabiting our country to favor its protection through scientific knowledge divulgation. î‚Še literature show a significant amount of knowledge about this species, but also the need to investigate key aspects in order to ensure the conservation of beaded lizards; for example, habitat disturbances sensitivity and habitat requirements, beaded lizard-human interaction dynamics, medical applications and genetic variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "Parque Estadual Turístico do Alto Ribeira" is an important remnant of Atlantic Forest, because it harbor great biodiversity and form, with others Conservation Units of its surroundings, one of the largest massifs of this formation in the country. The Park is located in the southeastern portion of São Paulo State and is predominantly composed of Atlantic Forest, which is responsible for hosting a large number of species of ferns and lycophytes, conspicuous elements in the understory. Although many floristic surveys have been published for areas of Atlantic Forest in São Paulo, just a few provide means for the identification of its species. The goal in the present study is to present a key for the identification of the 251 species of ferns and lycophytes found in the Park. By comparing the species found in the park with similar species, this paper can be also useful for the identification of species from other areas nearby. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to present the Pucciniales found in paramos of Antioquia on the Cyperaceae family. Collections were made of parasitized plants by Pucciniales in páramos of Antioquia Department with altitudes from 2800 to 4050 masl.; of the 136 collected materials, a total of 18 belonged to the Cyperaceae family. The spore states were observed under the stereomicroscope to have information about sori and from there micropreparations were made in lactoglycerin through free-hand sections and scrapings, 40 measurements were made of each of the structures found under the microscope and images were taken with a digital camera coupled. Results obtained include the description of the new species Puccinia sonsonensis; the first registration for Colombia of Puccinia caricina, Puccinia dioicae and Puccinia cephalotes, and first time record of species of the genus Carex parasitized by rust in Colombia. The results provide a additional argument the urgency of preservation and continuous study for such areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main conclusion of this paper is that the Resolution 970 from March 10, 2010 of the Colombian Institute for Agriculture obeys a model of development that threatens the biodiversity conservation, particularly the seed diversity. In reaching this conclusion, this paper describes the situation of agrobiodiversity in Colombia and analyses the norms of that Resolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews what has been published in peer-reviewed journals about birds in Colombian cities, complementing an important Latin American review article that was recently published. This review identifies 55 papers dealing with 12 Colombian cities which exceeds by 50 the the number of studies previously considered. Species lists and Ecological Studies are the most frequent studies. Medellín is the city with the most studies (26 papers), whereas Bogotá (nine), Cali and Popayán (four each) had fewer publications. Although our review detects important publications not previously considered, we conclude that urban ornithology in Colombia is still in its infancy considering the duration, number, quality, impact and depth of studies so far published. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the treatment of the concept of ecosystem services in textbooks of middle and high schools from Spain. We reviewed scientific publications from a "community of experts" in order to define their conceptual frameworks, which act as epistemological referents along the didactic transposition. The majority of 50 analyzed textbooks mentioned some particular goods or ecosystem service examples, but only 10% of these defined their concept (especially earth and environmental science textbooks). These findings are related to the lack of conceptualization in the official curriculum. Direct services from ecosystems were treated more frequently than indirect ones. In addition, rainforests were found to be almost the sole providers of ecosystem goods, as there being an under-representation of the social, cultural and religious values of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isla del Coco (also known as Cocos Island), Pacific Costa Rica, has been visited and written about since the 16th Century, and since the late 1800's many expeditions and scientists have carried out research in the Island. Here I compiled publications on marine biological, geological, oceanographic and atmospheric research done at Isla del Coco. A list of 599 scientific papers and chapters were compiled, together with 41 books, reports, Special Issues, theses and web sites, and ten historic books with descriptions of marine animals or environments. A mayority of the publications (425 or 66.4%) are related to marine biodiversity topics (species descriptions and lists of species); the most published groups are gastropods (81 papers), decapods (67) and bony fishes (66). There are no publications of several groups of animals that have been observed in the Island, for example free-living flat worms, parasites and nemerteans among others. Other topics with a large number of publications are, biogeography with 65, ecology (61) and geology (48); the most studied ecosystem are coral reefs with 14 papers. More publications are needed on many topics, such as impact of illegal fishing and climate change on Isla del Coco National Park marine flora and fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the northwestern corner of Sonora, México, there exists an arid region covered by a volcanic shield that is close to both a singular sea of sand dunes and the Sea of Cortez. Temperature in this place may reach 56.7°C in the summer and -8.3°C during winter. In addition, with only 52 millime- ters of annual rain, one could assume that this is an uninhabited landscape. However, the Desert of Altar and the volcanic shield of El Pinacate has characterized since the Pleistocene Era because of the existence of a singular biodiversity of which many specimens of fauna and flora transcend the current times. For these characteristics of this area, the Mexican government declared it, in 1993, a protected natural area with the name of Biosphere Reserve El Pinacate and the Great Desert of Altar. Moreover, this region has been historically relevant not only because of its physiographic and environmental singularities, but also because of the long presence of man. This place was inhabited by human beings since the Paleoindian and the Late Prehistoric periods, and has repeatedly been explored since the 17th Century to present by missioners, colonizers, gold seekers, hunters, and on the top of all scientists. Among the most important visitors to this land should be mentioned Fray Eusebio Francisco Kino, Carl Lumholtz, William Hornaday and Julian Hayden. This paper presents these two histories, the natural and the cultural, and discusses geological, morphological and physiographic aspects of this reserve, as well as those about biodiversity, early presence of man and ulterior explorations. This paper is the result of a wider project financed by the National Commission for the Protected Natural Areas (CONANP). The purpose of this research was to elaborate a museum exhibition in the Visitors Center of that place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arguments that support rural tourism (income, employment, environment, etc.) allow it to be considered as one of the main strategic assets for local development, especially in the most marginal regions. It appears indisputable that rural tourism, in particular farm tourism, is able to supplement farm income ensuring the perpetuation of externalities related to farm activities (landscape, biodiversity, tradition, etc.), especially when it is a form of agricultural diversification or re–positioning, consistent with the multifunctional (and post–productivist) paradigm adopted by the latest European policies. However, there are more cautious positions based on evidence, equally founded, revealing threats to the sustainability of the processes of growth of tourist presences. To this end, the paper proposes a comparison between seven southern Italian regions by applying the Index Decomposition Analysis (IDA) to variations in presences recorded during the 2001–2013 period, in order to evaluate several implications of critical reflections related to the sustainability of the growth of rural tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Salta, the puna vegetation studies are specific, sporadic, and often lack a complete picture of the floristic diversity. The objectives of this paper are to present the floristic diversity in Tocomar and Campo Amarillo, compare the biodiversity of the area of study with what is documented for Argentina, Bolivia and Chile, and analyze the indexes of similarities between the floristic vegas studied and those of other similar environments. The Non-wetlands include the grass steppes, shrub steppes and shrub hillside, and the wetlands include vegas. 30 families, 72 genera, 116 species, 19 infraspecific taxa and nine endemic species were recorded. The main families are Poaceae (26 species), Asteraceae (18) and Cyperaceae (9). 18 new records for the province of Salta are incorporated, of which four are Argentine endemisms. The floristic biodiversity of families, genera and species is higher than that documented for other floristically related sites, are concentrated in the analyzed vegas. The vegas had higher floristic similarity to the vegas of Northern Chile and Jujuy, while the lower affinity was recorded with the vegas of Catamarca, San Juan, Mendoza and Bolivia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colombia is the most diverse Neotropical country of Gesneriaceae. Nevertheless, there are gaps in knowledge of the distribution patterns and ecology of this family because of their taxonomic complexity. A list of the Gesneriaceae of the Quindío department with data for habitat and altitudinal distribution is presented in this paper. The herbarium collections of the Herbario Nacional Colombiano (COL) and the Herbario de la Universidad del Quindío (HUQ) were reviewed and fieldwork was carried out between 2009 and 2014 in 70 localities of Quindío. Forty three species and 11 genera were found, with a larger representation of Columnea, Besleria and Kohleria genera; nine species were new records for the Quindío; three were endemic and five species are new to science. The greatest richness was found in the montane forest between 1800 and 2400 masl, mainly in forested areas and streams. The results of this work constitute a baseline to conduct research in ecology, conservation and ornamental potential of Gesneriaceae occurring in Quindío. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compilation of data inventories regarding the distribution, composition, availability and structure of the variety of trees species in a certain urban area constitutes a necessary stage in urban forestry management. Havana's El Vedado has been historically characterized by its tree-lined streets. However, the current quantitative and qualitative deficiencies of its tree species affect significantly the urban image of the area and the well-being of its inhabitants, while also restricting the benefits provided by the trees and increasing their vulnerability. This paper presents a report of the first results of a spatial database of El Vedado's tree-lined streets, created through meticulous identification of tree species and the spaces where they belong. The data collected include information on basic aspects such as tree composition, density, size, growth performance and limitations. This type of study may prove very useful in helping to identify the characteristics that maybe used to select tree species better suited for landscape design in urban areas of Cuba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coral reef areas known as Oro Verde, Pantepec and Blake are located in northern Veracruz in the Gulf of Mexico. This paper presents for the first time a taxonomic list of reef fish belonging to the Oro Verde and Pantepec reefs. The inventory is the result of 54 visual fish census during March to August 2014. It includes 60 species belonging to 32 genera and 18 families. The species Haemulon striatum (located in Blake reef) is a new record for the Norveracruzano Reef System. The families found by number of species where the following: Pomacentridae (10 spp.), Haemulidae (10 spp.) and Scaridae (8 spp.). The results of this work continue to further enhance research on biological diversity in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colombian amazon has a wide biologic diversity, with silvester and cultured species which use potential and abundance identified them as an important bioactive compounds source. That represents a wide opportunity to innovate and develop processes and technologies in different engineering fields (chemical, mechanical and food engineering). This paper presents experiences when the problem of sustainable use of biodiversity is tackled from engineering in the Colombian amazonic region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a list of the aquatic insects collected from Urugua-i Provincial Park. This study aims to Improve the knowledge of this protected area located in Misiones Province. One hundred and thirty-six species of aquatic insects in 75 genera, 26 families and seven orders were recorded. New records for the province and for Argentina are listed, and the records of new species are mentioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to understand more accurately the contradictions, agreements and challenges of the conservation models of maize biodiversity through the analysis of the technological paradigm applied in the Programa Maiz Solidario in Los Altos de Chiapas. Using concepts from the Actor-Network-Theory, we used a focus group with the stakeholders involved in the Program's implementation whose speeches were grouped in seven controversies. The main conclusions value the notion of sociotechnical network for this kind of analysis and the need to establish epistemological agreements into the network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows the main findings regarding the climate change perspective in the department of Antioquia. For measuring it, means such as surveys, interviews, and a focus group were used with parties related to academia, the government, and the authorities of Antioquia. The results show that, in Antioquia, there are still gaps to be filled, and few, or little known, commitments for prevention; deficient institutional presence, and little interest from the local government for actions derived from the issue of regulations, and tools for adaptation to climate change to be implemented effectively. Likewise, there is little planning and connection between initiatives and the means for management in the territory. The parties surveyed agree that the most vulnerable sectors in the face of climate change, from an economic viewpoint, are the production units in the livestock, agricultural and energetic fields. From a social point of view, the main problem is what geomorphologic conditions generate, and, from an environmental point of view, the loss of biodiversity. Finally, education is viewed as the main instrument and tool for knowing and approaching the essence of climate change, as well as the implications that it can have for society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legal protection of accumulated and transgenerational developed knowledge by indigenous peoples and local communities, especially those associated with the properties, uses and characteristics of biological diversity, raises some issues and uncertainties. The Intellectual Property Legal Regimen in force, which establishes the basis for the protection of an individual author's work, and the Patent System are not able to protect collective traditional knowledge. The aim of this paper is to discuss not only the limitations that exist in the Argentine legal system to protect them adequately, but also the challenges involved, including from practical problems of registration to deeper issues related to the nature of traditional knowledge and the difficulties to design effective mechanisms to respect the worldview, culture and customary law of the peoples involved and able to prevent their use for commercial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is an update to the knowledge on the diversity of this department's herpetofauna and an analysis of the distribution of species richness according to Holdridge's ecological life zone system, altitudinal ranges and ecoregions. To meet this aims, records were taken by researchers from the available literature, biological collections, observations and field recordings. Based on the obtained data, analyzes of eta richness and diversity were performed. There were a total of 333 species recorded (187 amphibians and 146 reptiles). We found that the greatest species richness of herpetofauna is concentrated in the Pacific region. Species richness of both reptiles and amphibians decreased with increasing altitude range. Furthermore, the life zone with the highest species richness was the Premontane rain forest with warm transition. The areas that presented the highest species richness have features that enable a high diversity of species; however, it must also be taken into account that these areas are the ones with the biggest land extension within Valle del Cauca (Colombia), and that they are where most studies have been focused. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyze, from a historical perspective, organizational processes and how local institutions use their natural resources in the context of regional dynamics and environmental policies that seek to conserve biodiversity, and also stress the importance of protected natural areas. We refer to the relationship between the protected area, The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve and local fishing and forestry. The results show that in Sian Ka'an Biosphere organizational processes occurred prior to the establishment of the reserve. These processes helped to support established local institutions that had properly managed their natural resources. Therefore, a successful application of environmental conservation policies in protected natural areas should keep in mind historical and cultural processes of local players. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was carried out in October, 2011 and March, 2012. Follow image satellite analyses 41 sites were selected in Ana Maria gulf, south region of Cuba. At these sites an inventory of the corals, gorgonians and sponges were carried out. Health status was analysed for corals. Inventories were carried out in mangrove, seagrass and coral reefs (patch reefs and sand-rocky bottom biotopes) ecosystems. Species richness for corals was 41, 23 for gorgonians and 41 for sponges. More abundant corals species were Porites astreoides, Millepora alcicornis, Siderastrea siderea, Siderastrea radians, Agaricia agaricites and higher diversity was detected in patch reefs (41 species). More abundant gorgonians were Gorgonia ventalina, Erythropodium caribaeorum, Briareum asbestinum and the sponges were Mycale laevis, Cliona aprica, Iotrochota birotulata. Main affectation to coral health was bleaching (21 species experienced bleaching in some degree and only in 51% of sites). In Rabihorcado key and Algodón Grande key, were detected higher recruit abundance. Higher corals species richness was observed in: Algodón Grande key, Manuel Gómez key, Bergantines and Palomo keys. Having these results as base, this paper proposes research corals priorities relate to growth of colonies, connectivity among populations and health status of such populations in Ana Maria gulf-Jardines de la Reina ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fish community of the southern Gulf of Mexico is abundant and diverse, and its components are affected by the bycatch of the seabob shrimp fishery. The spatial and temporal abundance and diversity patterns of the fish community are described and analyzed in this paper, and the ecologically dominant species are identified. Monthly sampling was carried out from February 2006 to January 2007, at 37 sites located between the mouth of the Grijalva-Usumacinta system to the mouth of the Chumpan-Balchacah system inside the Terminos Lagoon, in the state of Campeche, southern Gulf of Mexico. Using an experimental trawl net, 444 experimental hauls were done, and 26,386 individuals were caught with a joint weight of 407.1 kg. In total, 94 species were identified, grouped in 65 genera and 38 families. The abundance and diversity of the fish community was analyzed on spatial and temporal scales in terms of density (ind m²), biomass (g m²), average weight (g ind-1), diversity index (H'n), species richness (Dmg), and evenness (J'). The abundance was high in August and September at sites near the mouths of the Grijalva-Usumacinta and Palizada-Del Este systems. The most important species in terms of abundance was the catfish, Cathorops melanopus. The intervals of variation of the diversity range on a spatial scale were H'n = 0.5 to 2.8 bits; Dmg = 2.6 to 5.3 sp ind-1, and J' = 0.1 to 0.8 bits. On a temporal scale, the intervals were: H'n = 1.8 to 2.6 bits; Dmg = 5.1 to 6.7 sp ind-1, and J' = 0.4 to 0.6 bits. Nine dominant species were identified, with 16,840 individuals and a joint weight of 278.5 kg, equivalent to 63.8% of the total capture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the archaeofaunal analysis from the archaeological site Agua de la Cueva (south sector), between ca. 11,000 and 5000 BP. The results show scant taxonomic diversity with a strong predominance of Lama guanicoe in every analyzed component. The main differences between the human occupations belonging to the Terminal Pleistocene-Early Holocene and those from the Mid Holocene are related to the significant diminution of the deposition rate of bone specimens trough lime and the absence of Vicugna vicugna from ca.9000 B.P. With respect to this last point, the morphometric analysis argues strongly against the possibility that the bone specimens belong to the extinct sub species Lama(Vicugna) gracilis. On the contrary, these specimens appear to correspond to the extant Vicugna vicugna, whose modern southern distribution is located about 600 km. north of the site under study, finally, the data presented allow us to discuss aspects of human subsistence in the west-central portion of the south American continent during the first stages of human occupation in the region and how humans reacted to the main environmental changes that occurred during the first half of the Holocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Mexico and in other parts of Latin America, a large overlap can be observed between indigenous territories and regions of high biological value. In this paper, we ask if the same overlap can be observed in the state of Jalisco, in western Mexico. To answer this question, we start with a succinct analysis of the two main indigenous regions in rural Jalisco: the Huichol Sierra in the northern part of the state and the Sierra of Manantlán, in the southern part. Then, we extend our analysis to the state in its entirety in order to measure the overlap between indigenous territories that have been "desindianized" and regions of high biological value. This is done by comparing the municipalities that contain agrarian centers designated as "indigenous communities" and the municipalities that areas officially recognized for their ecological importance. A high correlation between these two variables is observed, leading to the question "why". A series of hypotheses is developed and these are contrasted with empirical evidence through a case study of the ejido of Ayotitlán, in the Sierra of Manantlán. Although different forms of environmental degradation can be observed in Ayotitlán, it continues to be one of the best conserved territories in the state of Jalisco, with high levels of biodiversity. This is due, not only to its isolation, but also to the way in which the indigenous inhabitants have interacted with the environment and because of their activism in defense of their territory and natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chilean flounder (Paralichthys adspersus) are endemic to the Chilean coast and have been the subject of several studies on the possible diversification of marine aquaculture. This paper reviews the diverse results obtained from studies of this species' biology and cultivation techniques. The biological and technical knowledge available is sufficient for developing the entire life cycle of this species, producing commercial-sized individuals, in captivity. However, this knowledge is disperse and the results, as compared with those for other harvested species, still show moderately reproducible results, impliying the need to continue efforts to optimize some aspects of Chilean flounder cultivation, thereby promoting the species' development definitely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bolivia is regarded as the probable place of origin of the domesticated peanut, and an important world center of unique peanut diversity. As the first published study of its kind on peanut, this paper documents the infraspecific diversity of the crop in its country of origin and center of diverstity. 62 distinct landraces of Bolivian peanut were identified and systematically described. 42 landraces belong to Arachis hypogaea L. ssp. hypogaea var. hypogaea; 17 to A. hypogaea ssp. fastigiata var. fastigiata; one to A. hypogaea ssp. fastigiata var. vulgaris; and two to A. hypogaea ssp. fastigiata var. peruviana. With very few exceptions, the landraces encountered in Bolivia are almost entirely endemic to that country. The most typical peanuts from Bolivia pertain to the landraces "Crema", "Colorado San Simón", "Bayo americano", "Overo", and "Overo carenado", which are widely cultivated throughout the country. A few regions of unusually high peanut diversity can be identified. In the Yungas region of La Paz, 11 landraces were collected, of which three are endemic. In the mountainous regions of Santa Cruz and Cochabamba, 18 landraces were collected, of which six are endemic. The Department of Tarija yielded 14 landraces, of which two are endemic. All of the aforementioned landraces pertain to the botanical variety hypogaea. In contrast, the subspecies fastigiata has a remarkable center or diversity in the watershed of the Rio Beni, where 10 landraces were collected in a fairly small area, nine of which are endemic to that region. This monograph is intended to enhance the knowledge and appreciation of peanut diversity, and facilitate the conservation and use of peanut landraces by scientistis, plant breeders, and farmers [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the Zea mays racial variability and their relationship with the greater emphasis put on agricultural practices in the Southern Argentine "Puna" during ca. 1300-700 years BP, taking in account the archaeobotanical record of the sites "Cueva Cacao 1A" and "Bajo del Coypar II" ("Antofagasta de la Sierra", Catamarca, Argentina). Eight maize races were identified: Pisincho, Morocho, Morocho amarillo, Marrón, Harinoso Amarillo, Capia, Culli and Chullpi. This high biodiversity is a clear exponent about the introduction process of multiple maize races in the region. This process would have begun between the end of Formative Period in any moment among 1300 and 1000 years BP and becoming stronger in later moments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows some reflexions about tourist potentials and possibilities for a better management of the existing natural and cultural patrimonies along the Pantanal Pacific Route and its surroundings. The approach to the topic brings together some concepts of tourism, in terms of economic activity that is most spread in the world; that has most contributed to the preservation of natural and cultural biodiversity; that is least polluting; that contributes to a better social inclusion and rising the quality of life of the poorest. Nowadays social responsibility is one of the most important requirements to the positioning of business, institutions and professionals in a market. Thus, we look for the possibilities of this activity to enhance the development of the Pantanal Pacific Route. We also look for the role of the academia which is responsible for generating knowledge. That project was born in the academia, in a Graduate Program, Master in Geography. We hope governments will participate in this process by elaborating policies and support strategies to private initiatives for investment, nothing more. From the private sector, supported by the governments and the information given by the academies, to foment investments and the construction of support infrastructure, and the touristic products of the route, giving way to the so hoped development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The arguments presented by Espinoza et al. In their paper "Relationship of genetically modified crops with the environment and health of the Costa Rican human population" published in this journal (Rev. Biol. Trop. 52: 727-732, 2004) are questioned and refuted. The arguments are confronted with evidence offered by scientists and national and international independent organizations around the world (e.g. World Health Organization, Consumers International, Physicians and Scientists for Responsible Application of Science and Technology, International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, the Council of the University of Costa Rica, and the Independent Science Panel) showing the current uncertainty and limitations of science in this area, as well as those of proposed and applied biosafety approaches. Environment, biodiversity and food security are so important and basic matters, that there is need of serious testing, particularly when promises seem to be based on environmentally dangerous ideas promoted half a century ago by the so called "green revolution". Debate should continue, based on a holistic analysis of facts and with ethical reasoning, avoiding emotional positions that can confuse virtual reality with reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Qualitative evaluation of the coral reef betewen Punta del Diablo and the mouth of the river Río San Juan, Cienfuegos, southcentral part of Cuba was done in February 2003. This zone has been used for diving by the Touristic Center of Guajimico and has been proposed as Protected Natural Landscape. This paper describes for the first time coral reef significant biotopes in the area and makes considerations about their benthic communities biodiversity and health in its diving spots. The most representative biotopes varied from rocky plane to well developed spur and groove and walls between 5 and 25 m deep. Biological communities vary inside the diving spots and also among them. Dominant macroalgaes were Dictyota, Halimeda y Lobophora. Gorgonians and sponges were more diverse, abundant and bigger in the river mouths and in areas with sand. Callyspongia, Xestospongia, Ircinia, Cliona, Aplysina, Iotrochota and Niphates as sponges and Plexaura, Pseudoplexaura, Eunicia, Pterogorgia, Gorgonia y Briareum as gorgonians were the most frequent. Coral heads has the biggest coral cover and Montastraea, Diploria, Colpophyllia, Siderastraea, Porites y Agaricia were dominant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]