DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e186665

Authors: Marco Donat, Iman Bajalan, Ralf Bloch

Abstract: Agroforestry systems and especially alley cropping in temperate regions, are widely recognised as multifunctional land-use systems. In addition, understory vegetation strips (UVS), as a key structural component of agroforestry systems, strongly influence ecological processes, crop performance and management requirements. Despite the various environmental benefits of UVS, they can provide habitat for pests, pathogens and weeds. Managing UVS is challenging due to several factors, including suitable mechanization, different management strategies, physical and geomorphological complexity and labour demands. Therefore, this short communication addresses current knowledge on the ecological functions, risks and management challenges associated with UVS in alley cropping systems. Automated methods, such as field robots equipped with vision systems, offer opportunities to optimise management strategies and strike a balance between biodiversity conservation and agricultural productivity. Thus, smart management of UVS has the potential to act as a critical factor for improving the feasibility, efficiency and broader adoption of agroforestry systems in temperate agricultural landscapes.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e206925

Authors: Christos Zoumides, Emily Bank, Salwa Aabid, Berit Balfors, Filipe Bernardo, Luke Brander, Panayotis Dimopoulos, Davide Geneletti, Elias Giannakis, Mateja Šmid Hribar, Miguel Inácio, Jarumi Kato-Huerta, Ioannis Kokkoris, Conor Kretsch, Alessandra Longo, Ulla Mörtberg, Paulo Pereira, Daniela Ribeiro, Charalambos Theodorou, Benjamin Burkhard

Abstract: Ecosystem Services (ES), or Nature’s Contributions to People (NCP), are increasingly understood as products of interactions between natural and anthropogenic inputs. However, co-production remains unevenly implemented in ecosystem assessments. Rather than seeking to measure or causally decompose co-production across all contexts, this study develops a decision-oriented process for determining when and where explicit co-production assessment is warranted and for guiding the selection of appropriate assessment approaches for realised ES flows. It combines a structured narrative synthesis of conceptual and methodological literature with an expert-elicited Ecosystem Type (ET) × ES co-production relevance matrix and five European case-study examples across different ET and decision contexts. Sixteen experts assessed the relevance of anthropogenic inputs for realised ES flows across 231 ET × ES combinations in different European contexts, using scores to derive relevance verdicts, with confidence, expertise and inter-expert agreement used to assign five trust tiers. The results showed that, across the assessed ET × ES combinations, anthropogenic inputs received a Not relevant verdict in relatively few cases, but a detailed assessment of natural and anthropogenic contributions was not warranted for all ET × ES combinations. Most ET × ES combinations received an Intermediate relevance verdict, while relevance was highest in Urban, Cropland and Woodland and Forest ETs and for cultural services and ecosystem and species appreciation. Lower relevance was found for Open Ocean, Shelf and Sparsely Vegetated ETs and for broad-scale atmospheric regulating ES. The case study examples illustrated how natural and anthropogenic capitals enter the ES flow assessment chain at different stages, from ecosystem condition and potential/capacity to mobilisation, realised flows, benefits, values and distribution. These findings support a proportional approach, i.e. explicit co-production assessment should be prioritised where anthropogenic inputs materially shape ES flows (e.g. urban and cropland ETs), where attribution to ecosystem potential alone would be misleading and where decision-making needs justify the analytical effort within complex integrated ecosystem assessments.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e196087

Authors: Cengiz Arslan, Fabienne Horneman, Alice Stocco, Elisa Furlan, Elitsa Hineva, Nataliya Andreeva, Grzegorz Różyński, Jantsje van Loon-Steensma

Abstract: Effective large-scale coastal restoration requires moving beyond successful yet isolated pilot projects towards integrated, landscape-scale implementation of Nature-based Solutions (NbS). Achieving this transition depends on systemic approaches that translate local knowledge into spatial planning and broader environmental objectives across connected ecosystems, while addressing entangled challenges driven by, for example, climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution. Within the EU H2020 REST-COAST project, we developed the Nature-based Building Blocks (NB3) Framework to support the participatory upscaling of NbS across European coastal restoration pilots. This data paper presents a spatially-explicit dataset generated through the participatory application of the framework at pilot sites. Using the Interactive Web Map tool that implements the Participatory Downscaling Approach of the framework, stakeholders mapped Coastal Units representing context-specific spatial entities for restoration planning. Each Coastal Unit is coupled to a structured data sheet derived from the Input-Process-Output Model of the NB3 Framework, capturing locally relevant biophysical, ecological and socio-economic information. The resulting dataset provides a standardised, yet flexible representation of pilots’ coastal restoration contexts, enabling comparative analysis, fostering cross-site learning and providing information for decision-making strategies in NbS upscaling. By making these data openly available, the dataset provides a benchmark for comparative reuse in future restoration strategies and promotes broader application of participatory, transdisciplinary approaches to upscaling coastal restoration.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e193276

Authors: Fathan Muharraran, Wei Jack Tan, Ryan Foo, Wan Faridah Akmal Jusoh

Abstract: Artificial lights at night (ALAN) is a growing phenomenon that poses a significant threat to fireflies, which depend on natural darkness for bioluminescent communication. Yet, firefly populations persist near brightly lit urban areas, suggesting that certain environmental features may buffer the impact of ALAN. This study investigates how firefly populations respond to artificial lighting and whether canopy cover supports higher firefly occurrence in urban parks. We conducted field surveys at Bukit Kiara, an urban park in Kuala Lumpur, by recording firefly occurrences and measuring canopy cover, streetlight density and distance to the nearest streetlight. Using a negative binomial generalised mixed model (GLMM), we found that each additional streetlight was associated with a 36.7% reduction in expected firefly count, while a moderate positive correlation was observed between firefly occurrences and distance from streetlights. Conversely, the expected firefly count increased by 75.1% for every 18.7% increase in canopy cover. These findings suggest that canopy cover plays a key role in mediating the impact of artificial light on fireflies, potentially by providing localised shading that maintains low ambient light conditions. Urban park strategies that prioritise tree retention and connectivity of canopy cover may, therefore, support firefly persistence in light-polluted areas, though future research should account for species-specific responses and additional microhabitat and environmental variables.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e191980

Authors: Neema Mtenga, Ng'winamila Kasongi, Jan Lehmann, Tillmann Buttschardt

Abstract: Invasive alien plant species pose significant ecological and socio-economic risks across East Africa, yet invasion risk assessments in Tanzania have largely relied on single-species and climate-only projections. Such approaches may overestimate invasion potential by neglecting land-use constraints and inter-model uncertainty. This study evaluates the current and future habitat suitability of three invasive species: Chromolaena odorata and Lantana camara (terrestrial) and Pontederia crassipes in the Mara–Simiyu Region of northern Tanzania. Habitat suitability was modelled using MaxEnt and spatial block cross-validation. Projections were generated under three CMIP6 climate models (ACCESS-CM2, MIROC6 and MRI-ESM2-0) and four emission pathways (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0 and SSP5-8.5). We quantified suitable area using the 10th percentile training presence (P10) threshold and derived ensemble predictions by averaging across climate models. Climate-only projections indicate that terrestrial species retain moderate suitability under low-emission scenarios, but experience increasing fragmentation and contraction of highly suitable areas under higher-emission pathways. Niche overlap between L. camara and C. odorata was moderate to high across scenarios (Schoener’s D = 0.45–0.81), suggesting substantial climatic similarity and potential spatial convergence under future warming. In contrast, P. crassipes maintained broad climatic suitability across scenarios. When land-use projections were incorporated, suitable habitat estimates were substantially reduced and exhibited greater spatial uncertainty. For C. odorata, suitable habitat covered approximately 55–65% of the region under SSP1–2.6, but this uncertainty increased under high-emission scenarios (coefficient of variation ≈ 65–75% by 2090). L. camara showed even stronger contractions, with uncertainty exceeding 85–90% under SSP5–8.5. These findings suggest that climate-only models may overestimate potential niche space by ignoring land-use constraints. Therefore, integrating multiple environmental drivers provides a more realistic assessment of invasion risk and supports climate-adaptive management strategies.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e203494

Authors: Aleksandr Evsyukov, Evgeniya Kirichenko, Aleksandr Logvinov, Brer Al-Kinani

Abstract: Microplastics (MPs) are a growing threat to terrestrial ecosystems, yet the localisation of ingested MPs within the digestive tract of soil arthropods remains poorly understood. Here, we developed and validated a reliable fluorescence microscopy approach to visualise MP particles in different gut regions of millipedes (Diplopoda). MPs (LDPE and PLA, 3–5 mm) were pre-stained with Nile red and millipedes were exposed for five days. After gut isolation, cryosections were counterstained with Sytox Green for nuclei and examined under UV excitation, which provided optimal discrimination between blue‑white MP fluorescence and bright green cell nuclei. Whole‑body sectioning proved unsuitable due to fragmentation and autofluorescence of the cuticle, leading to false‑positive signals. In contrast, isolated gut preparations yielded clear images. We observed a region‑specific MP distribution: particles adhered closely to the cuticle‑lined wall of the foregut and hindgut but remained mostly in the lumen of the midgut, likely separated by the peritrophic membrane. This differential localisation may have functional implications for MP residence time, translocation risk and interaction with compartment‑specific gut microbiomes. Our protocol offers a practical and reproducible tool for future studies on MP ingestion, fragmentation and biodegradation by arthropods.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e186675

Authors: Tytti Jussila, Pekka Hurskainen, Marjo Neuvonen, Janne Artell, Marianne Laalo, Liisa Saikkonen

Abstract: The new EU regulation on ecosystem accounting requires Member States to report annually on the supply and use of seven ecosystem services. To support this process, Eurostat provides a voluntary INCA tool along with default datasets and methods. While these resources enable basic compliance with the reporting requirements, the top-down, centrally provided input data and assumptions are generic, not fully comprehensive and may lack accuracy in many national contexts. Integration of national data and context-specific assumptions is, therefore, recommended to improve reliability and national relevance of accounts.In this study, we assessed how input data choices affect nature-based tourism accounts in Finland. We compiled two sets of accounts with the INCA tool: one using the default dataset and one with nationally sourced input data. Improvements in the nationally adjusted dataset include high-resolution travel statistics, spatial information on accommodation locations and adjusted proxies for recreational attractiveness. The comparison of resulting accounts revealed substantial differences: the default approach underestimated domestic nature-based tourism volumes – mainly due to missing non-commercial accommodation use – and produced unrealistic spatial patterns that overlooked several key destinations. National data provided markedly higher and more plausible estimates, with a broader and more accurate distribution across the landscape and a shift in ecosystem-level supply from forest-dominated to a more balanced contribution of lakes, marine areas and other ecosystems.Our findings demonstrate that using more comprehensive inputs, with higher spatial accuracy and closer alignment with national realities, can substantially change the magnitude and spatial distribution of estimated ecosystem service supply. Incorporating national expertise and datasets is essential to go beyond minimum compliance and to produce ecosystem accounts that are robust enough to support informed policy-making.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e186107

Authors: Mariana Kluge, Agatha Shubeita, Anna Uchaikina, Cecilia Alonso, Bruna Herrman, Caroline Menegotto-Silva, Caroline Lopes, Danielle Pagani, David Marques, Eduardo Moreira-Silva, Erik Kristiansson, Isadora Quintana, José Cavalcanti, Juliane Fleck, Karine Ribeiro, Laleh Varghaei, Lucas Oliveira, Lucia Rodrigues, Luciana Ramilo, Luciane Crossetti, Maria Stockenreiter, Mariê Cabezudo, Marla Lima, Nátali Gonçalves, Néstor Mazzeo, Rafael Schneider, Laura Utz, Stefan Bertilsson, Christian Wurzbacher, Ng Haig They, Renata Medina-Silva

Abstract: The South American Coastal Shallow Subtropical Lakes (SA-CSSL) represent the largest continuous coastal shallow-lake system of its kind globally — a 1,000 km belt of over 100 wind-exposed polymictic lakes and lagoons - mostly freshwater due to high precipitation, groundwater inputs and large catchments — arrayed along southern Brazil into eastern Uruguay. The SA-CSSL lakes formed during the Quaternary as barrier–lagoon systems - lagoons impounded behind coastal sand barriers, a unique and peculiar feature in the context of shallow lakes. Despite their regional and global relevance, subtropical shallow lakes remain under-represented in limnology, making SA-CSSL a critical research target that goes beyond temperate-dominated research. The region spans strong climatic and anthropogenic gradients and is directly influenced by the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), creating a natural laboratory for comparative and replicated studies on ecosystem processes, biodiversity and resilience. Here, we synthesise the current knowledge on the system’s origin, structure, functioning and pressures and formulate a forward-looking plan for coordinated research and monitoring. Drawing on the strategic outcome from a 2025 workshop in Brazil, we delineate four representative aquatic subsystems with historical monitoring and active projects — the Tramandaí River System, Patos Lagoon System, Mangueira–Mirim System and Uruguayan Lagoon System — as sentinels for integrated observation and research. Key anthropogenic and climatic stressors comprehensively documented include eutrophication, urban and agricultural runoff and emerging contaminants (e.g. pharmaceuticals, pesticides, microplastics), alongside rapid landscape change and more frequently occurring extreme weather events due to climate change. We further outline priority research topics that leverage the system’s scale and gradients: (i) pollutant and “novel entity” surveillance combining analytical chemistry with microbial and molecular biomarkers; (ii) biodiversity and community-assembly studies across ecotones and salinity transitions; (iii) remote-sensing–enabled lake modelling and early-warning indicators; (iv) designs for extreme inflow events; and (v) transboundary governance cases. To align local action with global needs, we align a monitoring framework with planetary boundaries, propose indicators and highlight data-infrastructure needs. We position SA-CSSL as a globally unique large-scale model for subtropical shallow lakes and a collaborative nexus for testing ecological theory and managing freshwater under accelerating climate and societal change.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e172396

Authors: Marie Pairon, Marc Dufrêne

Abstract: Understanding the ecological consequences of land-take requires moving beyond land-use and land-cover (LULC) data alone and considering ecosystem condition. This study quantifies land-take in Wallonia (Belgium) between 2007 and 2018 and characterises the affected areas using key abiotic soil and topographic properties, including soil wetness, texture, depth, hydromorphy, slope and aspect, in order to identify ecologically constrained soils affected by this process. We then assess how these land conversions influence the capacity of ecosystems to deliver services, applying an ecosystem service (ES) capacity matrix. The matrix combines LULC information with mapped soil and topographic properties to integrate ecosystem condition into the estimation of ES changes attributable to land-take. Our findings show an average annual land-take of 21.43 km² (5.87 ha per day), consistent with national statistics, but significantly higher than European estimates, mainly due to methodological differences between land-cover-based satellite imagery and cadastral land-use data. Conversions predominantly affect agricultural land, reflecting long-standing policy concerns about the protection of arable land. However, our study also highlights that ecologically constrained soils, often overlooked due to their limited agronomic value, are nonetheless significantly affected by land-take. These areas, including hydromorphic soil types, occupy relatively small surfaces, yet exhibit a high capacity to support regulating ES. Results indicate a significant decline in the capacity of ecosystems to supply regulating ES, especially water quality regulation and flood risk mitigation. These findings underscore the importance of integrating ecosystem condition data into ES assessments and land-use planning policies, not only to support the goal of preventing further soil degradation (e.g. under No Net Land-Take objectives), but also to move beyond a purely surface-based interpretation of land-take that overlooks the characteristics of the ecosystems affected.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e177863

Authors: Ria Rosdiana Hutagaol, Ambar Kusumandari, Hatma Suryatmojo, Dwiko Budi Permadi

Abstract: Degraded land in the Peninsung Catchment is currently a significant concern, necessitating rehabilitation efforts that involve local communities. This study aimed to determine the Important Value Index (IVI) and species diversity within the traditional Dayak agroforestry landscape, known as tembawang and to evaluate the potential of this landscape for rehabilitating the critical land. The research was conducted in Peninsung Catchment (8,111.36 ha), Sepauk Sub-Watershed, Kapuas Watershed, West Kalimantan. A line-nested sampling plot method with 30% sampling intensity was used to collect data on the structure and composition of vegetation, generating the Important Value Index (IVI) to determine species dominance and ecological importance within the vegetation community. PAST software (ver. 4.04) was used to analyse the diversity indices (Shannon and Simpson Index), evenness (E) and hierarchical cluster analysis. The results revealed a highly resilient, multi-layered canopy structure. At the tree stage, the ecosystem maintains a stable structural framework characterised by moderate diversity (H' up to 2.38) and high evenness (E > 0.80), validated by exceptionally robust cluster configurations (CCC = 0.9549). However, the pole stage has a lower diversity (H' < 1.0) as a result of rubber cultivation for economic cultivation. The multilayered vegetation structure of tembawang, consisting of seedlings, saplings, poles and mature trees, indicates strong ecological stability and continuous natural regeneration similar to that of natural forest ecosystems. Therefore, tembawang can be recommended as a locally adaptive agroforestry system that supports soil and water conservation and has potential for critical land rehabilitation in watershed areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e184595

Authors: Wilbert Aureo, Cristino Tiburan Jr., Eduardo Calzeta, Ireneo Lit Jr., Yingwei Yan, David Mark Taylor, Rico Ancog

Abstract: Identifying suitable habitats and High Conservation Value Areas (HCVAs) for threatened species is critical for informing site-based management in biodiversity-rich, but vulnerable landscapes. In this study, Species Distribution Modelling (SDM) and species richness analysis were applied to identify areas of high conservation value within Rajah Sikatuna Protected Landscape (RSPL). Using the MaxEnt algorithm, we modelled habitat suitability for thirteen threatened species across major taxonomic groups, incorporating topographic and bioclimatic variables. Models showed high performance (mean Area Under Curve (AUC) = 0.905, True Skill Statistic (TSS) = 0.717 and Variance Inflation Factor (VIF) < 4), with terrain ruggedness, slope, mean annual temperature and annual precipitation identified as primary drivers of model structure. While statistical performance was robust, model outputs were strictly framed as spatial hypotheses to account for the data-limited nature of the focal endemics and the use of bioclimatic layers as proxy gradients. The resulting potential suitability maps revealed heterogeneous, species-specific distributions, ranging from localised and fragmented habitats for Dipterocarpus grandiflorus, Gallicolumba crinigera and Shorea guiso, to broader ranges for Edolisoma mindanense, Platymantis guentheri and Voacanga megacarpa. Stacked binary models produced a species richness map that highlighted northern and north-western RSPL as biodiversity hotspots, while southern areas were relatively depauperate, reflecting probable degradation. Threshold-based analyses to delineate HCVAs showed that the CRFD (Cumulative Richness Frequency Distribution) inflection point (~ 6 species) best balanced spatial extent and ecological sensitivity, capturing 90% of species occurrences. In contrast, conservative thresholds (e.g. 95th percentile, Mean + 1 SD) isolated only a few core hotspots, but excluded moderately rich areas that may serve as corridors or buffer zones. This integrated modelling approach offers valuable insights, enabling the prioritisation of potential critical habitats and identification of targets for ecological restoration.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e186690

Authors: Priya Sharma, Amalia Krupandan, Jelena Stanivuk, Emese Békefi, Gergő Gyalog

Abstract: Artificial aquatic systems, such as aquaculture pondscapes, deliver several important ecosystem services (ES). However, it is challenging to assess their habitat‑maintenance and cultural values because they depend on multiple complex interactions amongst landscape structure, ecological processes, and human use patterns. In this context, we have developed and demonstrated a spatial, proxy-indicator framework that applies landscape‑based metrics (e.g., fractal dimension, shoreline/edge density, connectivity etc.) alongside indicators that capture cultural-recreational aspects (e.g., land‑cover diversity, perceived naturalness, accessibility, protected areas, and tourist attractions etc.). These indicators were calculated at the pond and landscape levels for 25 representative pondscapes in Hungary and were then normalised to enable comparison across different sites. Application of our framework revealed clear differences in landscape patterns and ecosystem services between regions and pond types. Barrage‑dam pondscapes - occurring in Transdanubian regions of Hungary - were found to exhibit higher structural complexity and habitat‑maintenance potential than the predominantly round‑dam ponds of the Great Plain in Hungary. The results also indicate which structural, accessibility and aesthetic factors most strongly influence the potential of ecosystem services across pondscapes. This scalable and reusable approach can be used to conduct ecosystem service assessments in other similar pondscapes, particularly in contexts where intensive field surveys are not feasible. It can further support decision‑making related to targeted restoration, agri‑environment scheme design and broader pondscape enhancement.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e189660

Authors: Bogdan Prodanov, Radoslava Bekova, Magdalena Valcheva, Rossen Tzonev, Ahinora Baltakova

Abstract: Coastal dune systems are dynamic and vulnerable landforms that provide key ecological, geomorphological and protective functions along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Despite their importance, their conservation status remains insufficiently quantified, particularly under the microtidal and fetch-limited conditions characteristic of the Black Sea.This study introduces the Eco-Geomorphological Dune Value Index (EGDVI), a multi-criteria assessment framework integrating 31 indicators across eight thematic categories, encompassing geomorphological, ecological, anthropogenic, legal and scientific dimensions. Unlike existing dune assessment approaches, the EGDVI combines these components within a single weighted and standardised scoring system, enabling a comprehensive and policy-relevant evaluation of dune systems. Indicator scores are derived from field surveys, high-resolution remote sensing data, GIS analysis and legislative sources and are weighted through structured expert elicitation.The EGDVI was applied to 16 dune systems along the Strandzha sector of the Bulgarian Black Sea coast. Total scores range from 154.0 to 364.5 (maximum 400), defining five classes of eco-geomorphological value. Four systems (25.0%) are classified as Very High Value (Class A), one (6.25%) as High Value (Class B), eight (50.0%) as Moderate Value (Class C), one (6.25%) as Low Value (Class D) and two (12.5%) as Degraded (Class E). At the regional scale, the mean EGDVI score (266.1) falls within the moderate-value class, indicating that transitional dune systems dominate along the Strandzha coast.The results demonstrate that the EGDVI provides a robust, transparent and reproducible framework for assessing both condition and conservation value. By explicitly incorporating governance and scientific dimensions alongside eco-geomorphological parameters, the index strengthens the science–policy interface and supports conservation prioritisation. The conceptual structure of the EGDVI is transferable to other microtidal and enclosed-sea coastal environments, provided that indicators are locally calibrated.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e192685

Authors: Sabine Lange, Joana Seguin, Emily Bank, Luke Brander, Martine van Weelden, Lisa Heine, Graeme Nicholls, Paula Rendon, Fernando Santos, Slavena Peneva, Raya Ganeva, Gabriela Popova, Davide Geneletti, Jarumi Kato-Huerta, Chiara Cortinovis, David Barton, Sylvie Clappe, Graciela Rusch, Inge Liekens, Claire Brown, Nicolas Grondard, Stoyan Nedkov, Vince van ‘t Hoff, Julia Wentworth, Benjamin Burkhard

Abstract: While numerous ecosystem assessment frameworks have been developed, they often provide valuable insights into and guidelines for assessments from siloed perspectives, addressing ecosystem assessments primarily through research, public-sector, private-sector or context-specific lenses. They lack the integrated approach necessary to address the multifaceted nature of ecosystem assessments across diverse domains and contexts. Others bring together perspectives from various sectors, but stay at a conceptual level, without specifying detailed steps and processes required for implementation. This fragmentation presents a barrier to achieving holistic and sustainable integrated ecosystem assessment outcomes that account for diverse user needs and relevant interdependencies amongst ecosystem components. The Framework for Integrated Ecosystem Assessment (FIEA) developed by the SELINA project (Science for Evidence-based and Sustainable Decisions about Natural Capital) offers a unified structure that builds upon and refines the existing assessment approaches to facilitate integrated ecosystem assessments and provide information for evidence-based decision-making across multiple sectors. Developed through an interactive co-creation process within the SELINA project, the FIEA engaged a wide range of partners, including scientists, policy-makers and private sector representatives and is designed to be modular and flexible, catering to diverse needs and contexts. The framework encompasses six interconnected phases – Frame, Scope, Design, Assess, Share and Act. It addresses present challenges that limit the uptake of ecosystem information in decision-making by enhancing transparency, stakeholder engagement and adaptability. Within the paper, the FIEA’s structure and development process will be addressed, underscoring its potential to bridge the gap between ecosystem science and practical decision-making.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e188496

Authors: Zishan Wani, Yashwant Rawat

Abstract: India is globally recognised as a megadiverse country, supporting a substantial proportion of the world’s biodiversity across a wide range of terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems, while simultaneously sustaining nearly one-fifth of the global human population. The present study synthesises evidence on the current state of biodiversity conservation in India and the apparent paradox between expanding conservation initiatives and continued ecological degradation. While protected areas and species-focused recovery programmes have contributed to the persistence of several threatened taxa, pressures on ecosystem integrity remain widespread, driven by habitat loss and fragmentation, biome-specific protection gaps, climate change and governance and development-related challenges. Recent policy and programmatic efforts, including the diversification of conservation categories, species recovery initiatives, expansion of wetland protection and improved use of monitoring technologies, signal a growing national commitment. However, weak environmental appraisal, sectoral decision-making and uneven implementation continue to constrain outcomes. In the context of the Global Biodiversity Framework, India’s experience underscores the need to move beyond a narrow focus on expanding protected area coverage towards climate-adaptive and landscape-scale conservation strategies that prioritise ecological quality, connectivity and inclusive governance.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e194694

Authors: Benjamin Burkhard, Joachim Maes, Davide Geneletti, Iva Boyadzhieva, Pavel Stoev, Lyubomir Penev

Abstract:

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e184431

Authors: Alexandra Evans, Marcel Buchhorn, Ján Černecký, Andrej Halabuk, Bruno Smets

Abstract: Quantifying and mapping the wood provisioning ecosystem service presents significant challenges to countries compiling ecosystem accounts because gathering data for large forested areas involves considerable resource investment. Modelling the growth and distribution of forests with Earth Observation (EO) data offers a scalable approach to estimating the Net Annual Increment of forests remotely in a consistent manner and mapping it at high resolution for large extents on a yearly basis.In this study, we introduce and assess a bottom-up approach to calculating Net Annual Increment (NAI) to generate high resolution (10 m) wood provisioning ecosystem accounts. We describe the theoretical reasoning and technical specifications of a novel method involving the identification of areas of living trees and forest available for wood supply, conversion to Dry Matter Productivity and calculation of total green biomass increment, accounting for multiple wood densities and fractional tree cover. We demonstrate the method by generating NAI maps for Slovakia and evaluate the results with comparisons to a reference dataset generated from public forestry measurements as well as to the ecosystem account output of the INCA tool.The maps generated by the Earth Observation (EO) approach captured a higher level of detail in forest and NAI distribution than INCA. NAI per NUTS region for the EO approach were more similar to the reference approach than were the INCA estimates. The INCA approach significantly overestimated NAI for beech and underestimated for spruce stands, although the greater range of values detected by the EO method meant that it had a marginally weaker correlation with the reference than INCA.The results indicate that the innovative EO method improves on existing top-down approaches while remaining scalable and flexible. It is an effective method for compiling wood provisioning ecosystem accounts with the potential for greater temporal resolution and spatial extent than would be possible with field measurements, producing realistic values and high-resolution maps. Its innovative bottom-up approach and foundation in open EO data give this method the potential for continental or global application (where input data are available), providing an accessible way for countries to compile ecosystem accounts to meet reporting obligations.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e182524

Authors: Radoslava Bekova, Bogdan Prodanov, Todor Lambev, Chavdar Gussev

Abstract: This study provides an integrated geomorphological, hydrological, physico-chemical, ecological and macrolitter assessment of the Shabla–Ezerets coastal lake system. High-resolution LiDAR and bathymetric data reveal a shallow, low-energy basin with strong hydrological confinement, extensive littoral development and fine-sediment accumulation. Contemporary water-column profiles (2019–2024), compared with historical measurements (1950–1963), show a stable summer thermocline at 2–4 m depth and an increase of approximately 3–4 °C in summer surface temperatures. Near-bottom oxygen saturation frequently declines to 20–40% during summer, extending the spatial expression of historically observed low-oxygen conditions. Salinity remains uniformly oligohaline (0.1–2.1 ‰), contrasting with the more variable historical range. Ecological data indicate long-term shifts towards freshwater-tolerant ichthyofaunal assemblages and expanded reedbed dominance. Macrolitter surveys document moderate plastic-dominated accumulation across shoreline, surface-water and benthic compartments, reflecting limited flushing and efficient retention. The combined evidence shows that hydrological confinement, gradual climate-related warming and restricted water renewal jointly structure present-day ecosystem functioning. Controlled seasonal freshwater outflow is identified as an appropriate restoration measure for improving water-column renewal, reducing stagnation and decreasing litter retention while preserving the system’s freshwater character.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e146607

Authors: Karthika Gopi, Taoufik Ksiksi, Aaron C. Henderson

Abstract: In mangrove ecosystems, the significance of litterfall as a key contributor to ecosystem productivity and soil nutrient dynamics is well established. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of litterfall patterns within a hyper-arid saline mangrove ecosystem in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), revealing substantial monthly fluctuations. The annual litterfall ranged from 0.107 to 0.768 Mg/ha (± 0.093 Mg/ha), with the lowest values observed in February and the highest in August. The investigation further examined the relationship between litterfall and ten distinct remotely sensed vegetation indices, utilising multispectral imagery from the Sentinel-2 satellite mission. The findings indicated a weak correlation between litterfall and several vegetation indices. Nevertheless, exemplary predictive performance was achieved through a random forest regression model (RF), yielding an R² value of 0.81 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 6.71. The analysis identified the Normalised Difference Moisture Index (NDMI), Plant Senescence Reflectance Index (PSRI) and Transformed Vegetation Index (TVI) as the most significant variables influencing litterfall dynamics. The study underscores the critical importance of comprehending monthly litterfall patterns and leveraging remote sensing methodologies for effectively monitoring and managing mangrove ecosystems amid shifting climatic conditions.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e167875

Authors: Nina Arhangelova, Seniha Salim, Kiril Valkanov, Nikolay Kolev, Pavlina Marinova, Lyubomira Veleva, Nikolay Natchev

Abstract: In the present study, we used the Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) technique to analyse the element composition of Zebra mussel shells (Dreissena polymorpha) across the different ontogenetic stages. Our investigation also covered water and sediment sample collection from the mussel’s habitat. The use of the PIXE method allowed for accurate quantitative measurement and the detection of trace elements. To gain insight into the changes in metal concentrations in the shells, we calculated the coefficients of variation for each of the chemical elements present in the samples and the correlation between all possible pairs of metal concentrations in the shells. The calculated Metal Pollution Indexes (MPI) demonstrated a strong relationship between the growth of the mussels and the accumulation of chemical elements from the environment. We conducted quantitative analysis of metals in the water and the sediments from the Ticha Dam and established correlations, proving that the elements K, Mn, Fe, Ti and Cr accumulate in the shells of the Zebra mussels.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e164014

Authors: Nady Mahmoud, Mohamed Kamar, Ana Maria Perez Arredondo, Philipo Mtweve, Lisa Biber-Freudenberger

Abstract: Nature-based solutions (NbS) are considered a promising approach to addressing the climate-health nexus by mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts. They also serve as a bridging concept that delivers multiple benefits for climate, biodiversity and human well-being, including health. However, evidence on how NbS affect people’s health and well-being remains scattered and has not been systematically reviewed. In this study, we explore synergies and trade-offs associated with NbS in the context of climate change and public health, based on a literature review. To explore the specific mechanisms through which NbS influence different public health dimensions, we utilise the UN climate change vulnerability framework. Our results show strong evidence that NbS can effectively mitigate climate change impacts, promote ecosystem resilience and improve human well-being by providing multiple benefits, such as enhanced biodiversity, improved air and water quality, increased food security and reduced urban heat island effects. However, trade-offs also exist, such as disruptions to local biodiversity and increased resource demands, which can lead to unintended negative consequences, like water scarcity and competition for land. We emphasise the importance of integrating NbS into policy frameworks with careful planning and considering their benefits and trade-offs to maximise gains for all communities. In conclusion, research on NbS provides strong evidence that they can be essential for addressing climate and health challenges, but implementation must consider local context and potential trade-offs to ensure long-term sustainability. Future research should examine long-term impacts and strengthen monitoring to better manage these trade-offs.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e183254

Authors: Silvia Pulina, Lyudmila Kamburska, Jessica Titocci, Bachisio Mario Padedda, Roberta Piscia, Ilaria Rosati, Raffaella Sabatino, Andrea Di Cesare

Abstract: The Mediterranean Region is considered one of the areas most exposed to climate warming, with artificial lakes and coastal lagoons representing particularly vulnerable ecosystems, that provide essential goods and services. Amongst the extreme events linked to warming, heatwaves are of growing concern, yet their ecological effects on the functioning of Mediterranean aquatic systems remain poorly investigated. We present a methodological framework designed by the Project “a warmer Future world: effects on plankton commUnities and paThogens in Mediterranean vUlneRable Ecosystems (FUTURE)“ to study how natural plankton communities respond to abrupt and sustained thermal stress. The approach targets on entire plankton communities, from bacteria to zooplankton, integrates laboratory experiments and field monitoring activities and combines classical techniques with molecular tools to capture changes in biodiversity, food web size-structure and the occurrence of potentially pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. We selected two diverse aquatic ecosystems in the western Mediterranean as case studies: an artificial lake, an important source for drinking water and a coastal lagoon vital for fishery, both of high ecological and economic importance. By applying controlled experimental simulations with ecological relevance, the framework provides a replicable approach to investigate plankton community-level responses to heatwaves. This methodological contribution provides a comparative framework for vulnerable Mediterranean ecosystems and promotes standardised approaches to assess the impacts of extreme climate-driven events. The scalable and reproducible protocol presented here fills a critical regional knowledge gap and will support the effective management of climate-sensitive aquatic ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e174192

Authors: Ágnes Vári, Diána Berecz, Bence Fülöp, Márk Honti, Tibor Erős

Abstract: Knowing people’s perceptions on the importance and value of ecosystem services (ES) is an important step towards sustainable management and recognised as essential for successful conservation. We assessed societal preferences, i.e. value perceptions for ecosystem services (ES), recreational activities, shore types and acceptance of shore modifications for Lake Balaton along with socio-demographic factors and environmental awareness. We surveyed 1500 respondents (tourists, vacation homeowners and lake shore residents) online and in person. Survey results show that the greatest importance was assigned to regulating and cultural ES, in line with the prevailing use as a place of recreation. Greatest differences were between residents and tourists, with environmental awareness as the strongest explanatory factor. The most frequent activities were close-to-nature (e.g. swimming, walking), but high-profile activities like sailing, yachting were less common, just as well as angling. This pattern aligned well with the preference for more natural shore types (24% of respondents preferred ‘close to natural’ type). More pressure in terms of development of tourism infrastructure, specifically of hotels and marinas, were disliked by 58% and 61% of the respondents, respectively. Preferences were most strongly influenced by participants' environmental awareness. We identified trade-offs between cultural ES as different recreational uses, linked to shore types with differing built and natural features. Some of these trade-offs can be solved with targeted spatial planning, but mass recreation might nevertheless impact conservation. We discuss the results of this survey in relation to present trends in investments to tourism at the Lake.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e141552

Authors: Pham Nhat, Claire Armstrong, Maria Tuomi, Kari Anne Bråthen

Abstract: Encroachment of a native invasive species – Empetrum nigrum (crowberry) – has impacted Arctic ecosystems and the indigenous Sámi people. To understand comprehensively the impacts of this native invader, we adopted three concepts, ecosystem services (ES), ecosystem disservices (EDS) and nature’s contributions to people (NCP), to identify and classify systematically crowberry’s beneficial and detrimental impacts on the Arctic ecosystem. Through a systematic literature review of 116 articles, we show that, amongst 12 positive and negative impacts of E. nigrum, the species only provide detriments to humans indirectly. Specifically, the detriments are the negative impacts on the local ecosystems and biodiversity, which indirectly affect locals’ way of life. We identify one additional beneficial impact of crowberry – carbon fixation – which was not included in previous review studies. The analysis reveals that the CICES framework, despite its detailed categorisation capabilities, lacks specific differentiation for certain services (e.g. food vs. medicinal) and neglects ecosystem disservices. We propose integrating EDS into the MAES/CICES and IPBES frameworks, classified in a manner parallel to its existing ES categories, for a more holistic assessment. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the NCP concept, contrary to IPBES claims, does not consistently offer a more inclusive lens for assessing multifaceted impacts, due to the lack of elements equivalent to disservices. Consequently, we suggest improving the neutrality of NCP subcategories and adopting an endogenous perspective in assessing nature's contributions. Ultimately, the choice of concept may depend on specific research objectives.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e162336

Authors: Alexian Cheminal, Fotini Lamari, Ioannis Kokkoris, Athanasios Kallimanis, Panayotis Dimopoulos

Abstract: The interest in new natural products and herbal raw materials increases in a variety of scientific and industrial fields, but many plant taxa of restricted distribution tend to be overlooked as potential assets. Their large number precludes their study and valorisation. Therefore, there is a dire need to develop tools for assessing the plant taxa potential as ecosystem service providers, to prioritise the research efforts and to enhance conservation priorities. With the aim of identifying taxa of interest as potential medicinal and aromatic plants (MAP), amongst the taxa of a given flora, we developed a set of indicators. These indicators are based on the available scientific literature and are formulated even for taxa of restricted distribution, based on their closely-related species in terms of phylogeny, taxonomy (same species or same genus within the flora) or in use as approved herbal medicine or edible crops. The developed indicators are herein applied to the endemic flora of the Peloponnese, a floristic region of Greece with high total - and endemic - species diversity. Even though only 12.5% of the endemic taxa have previously been documented as MAP, the use of indicators suggests 58.3% of the flora as of non-null MAP potential (Indicator I1), while 74.1% of the taxa obtained a non-null value of Study Interest Index (Indicator I2). The results suggest 25 taxa as of high MAP potential, whereas 24 taxa are emphasised as of high-priority for further studies. This is, to our knowledge, the first attempt to establish a systematic literature-based method to assess potentially significant edible, medicinal and/or aromatic taxa.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e184299

Authors: Joana Seguin, Isabel Nicholson Thomas, Paula Rendón, Chiara Cortinovis, Ildikó Arany, Bálint Czúcz, Helena Duchková, Davide Geneletti, Nicolas Grondard, Victoria Guisado Goñi, Miguel Inácio, Jarumi Kato-Huerta, Ioannis Kokkoris, Solen Le Clec'h, Piotr Lupa, Mark Mansoldo, Paulo Pereira, Daniela Ribeiro, Mateja Šmid Hribar, Małgorzata Stępniewska, Eliška Tichopádová, Vince van ‘t Hoff, Joana Vincente, Iwona Zwierzchowska, Sabine Lange

Abstract: Ecosystem services (ES) fundamentally depend on ecosystem condition (EC), yet many ES assessments still rely on land-cover proxies, risking biased assessment results as well as weak uptake, meaning limited application of results in decision-making contexts. This review provides a comprehensive overview of how EC indicators are used in ES assessments published between 2018 and 2022.In total, 128 publications have been included in the review, from which 929 EC indicators with a direct or implicit link to one or more ES and 707 ES indicators have been documented. The recorded EC indicators were reclassified according to the Ecosystem Condition Typology (ECT) provided by the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting - Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA EA) and supplementary classes (ECT+). Our analysis identified a focus on terrestrial ecosystems, with under-representation of marine and less intensively managed ecosystems. Within the reclassified ECT and ECT+ indicators, chemical state EC indicators were prevalent, while landscape state and functional state metrics remained under-operationalised. Besides, the share of spatially explicit indicators was limited. Moreover, we found that a significant share of indicators, labelled as EC, were not EC indicators in the strict sense, but instead related to ecosystem extent, ES or stable environmental characteristics, leading to a conceptual blurring between condition, pressure, extent and service indicators. Analysing the link between EC and ES revealed that EC indicators were: (1) primarily quantitatively compared to ES or integrated into ES assessments and (2) most frequently linked to regulating ES. The reviewed literature showed a predominance of positive EC–ES relationships, confirming that ecosystems in better condition tend to support a higher supply of ES. In summary, our review identified progress towards integrated ES assessments, highlighted persistent gaps and stressed the importance of continued efforts to achieve the widespread implementation of EC-enabled ES assessments.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e177766

Authors: Roberto Pizzolotto

Abstract: Entomology encompasses a broad spectrum of disciplines, from taxonomy and ecology to molecular biology and applied environmental studies. Yet, despite its diversity, entomological research often remains fragmented, constrained by discipline-specific methods and separate datasets. This paper introduces Systems Entomology, a conceptual and methodological framework grounded in systems thinking and data integration. Systems Entomology seeks to understand insect-related phenomena through the web of interactions that link species, environments and processes, rather than by focusing on fragmented isolated components. Two main challenges were identified for developing this field: the data challenge, concerning the collection, standardisation and interoperability of entomological data; and the systems thinking challenge, concerning the analysis of interactions and emergent properties in complex ecological systems. A worked example, based on the trophic network of Nebria germari, demonstrates how standardised data, analysed through network theory, can reveal emergent patterns that contribute to understanding ecological and evolutionary processes. It is expected that Systems Entomology will enhance interdisciplinary collaboration, improve data-driven discovery and foster new ways of interpreting insect diversity in the context of global change.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e174196

Authors: Hideyuki Doi

Abstract: Global livestock production represents a primary driver of planetary change, yet its full ecological and public health impacts remain poorly quantified potentially due to a deep-seated data divide. While biodiversity platforms like the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) have excelled at aggregating data on wild organisms, crucial data on livestock systems are usually siloed within disparate agricultural and public health sectors. This Forum paper posits that this division is a primary barrier to implementing a true One Health approach, obscuring our understanding of zoonotic diseases and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). We propose a practical solution: a federated data network. This framework leverages modern data science and Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to link existing databases, rendering large-scale integrated analysis technically feasible. This Forum paper addresses the fragmentation of data regarding livestock's environmental impact. In this Forum paper, I propose a shift from centralised data collection to a federated data network. By utilizing API-based parallel integration and AI-driven harmonisation, I argue that we can achieve real-time, predictive insights while keeping data within its source systems. I argue that historical barriers to integrating heterogeneous data are rapidly diminishing due to advances in AI, which can harmonise formats, extract features and model complex interactions. This enables a system that supports both holistic analysis and targeted filtering, offering a path towards a more comprehensive, evidence-based approach to managing our planet's interconnected agricultural and natural ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e161148

Authors: Álvaro Rubio-Cuadrado, María Menéndez-Miguélez, Isabel Cañellas, Sergio de-Miguel, Maitane Erdozain, Johanna Hoffmann, Katharina Lapin, Leland K. Werden, Iciar Alberdi

Abstract: Anthropogenic pressure has led to the degradation of most natural areas in Europe. However, there is growing concern amongst both citizens and public administrations regarding the need to improve the conservation status of natural spaces through ecological restoration projects. The greatest challenge faced by ecological restoration managers is determining the most appropriate measures to ensure successful restoration, given the highly variable case-specific conditions, differing interests and objectives amongst stakeholders and limited knowledge of which measures have succeeded or failed in past restoration projects. The objective of this study is to address this issue by compiling an exhaustive database of European ecological restoration initiatives through surveys targeting stakeholders (including managers, landowners, workers, researchers and interested citizens) in relation to restoration projects already implemented, in progress or planned. The questionnaire was designed to cover all aspects related to restoration projects: general characteristics (e.g. geographic scope, duration, funding sources), ecological restoration approaches (e.g. techniques applied, target species), socio-economic and governance dimensions (e.g. stakeholder engagement, policy frameworks) and standardised success indicators for quantifying project outcomes. The published database includes responses from a total of 404 participants. This database contains extensive information on ecological restoration practices across Europe, including the reported causes of success or failure and captures the diverse perspectives associated with respondents’ different roles in restoration. It is, therefore, of interest to researchers, policy-makers and other stakeholders involved in ecological restoration.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.11.e159884

Authors: Zhuofan Huang, Zhenglei He, Zelin Xing

Abstract: Understanding the intricate link between global food trade and ongoing biodiversity loss is critical, yet comprehensive datasets visualising this relationship remain scarce. To address this, we developed a novel global staple food trade biodiversity loss network dataset spanning 1995-2022. This dataset uniquely integrates global trade data with agricultural production metrics to quantify the embodied biodiversity loss associated with the trade of four major crops: wheat, soybean, rice and maize, across 157 countries and encompassing up to 91414 trade relationships. By constructing this dynamic network framework, our work provides a comprehensive resource for analysing the complex interplay between food trade and biodiversity loss. This dataset offers crucial insights for identifying key countries, trade relations and risk transfer mechanisms, thereby serving as a foundational tool for providing information for the development of sustainable food trade policies and fostering interdisciplinary research in this vital area.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e175875

Authors: Buke Chen, Chiara Cortinovis, Shizuka Hashimoto, Xiaodi Zheng

Abstract: Under rapid urbanisation and climate change, cities urgently need strategies to enhance resilience and sustainability. Transforming brownfields into green spaces has been widely recognised as a nature-based solution (NbS), yet how to integrate this transformation into urban planning to maximise benefits remains unclear. To address the gap, our study proposes a cross-scale approach for brownfield greening (BG) that links urban-scale prioritisation with site-specific greening interventions. By integrating spatially explicit assessments of ecosystem service (ES) supply, demand and supply-demand balance, the approach identifies not only where BG should occur (where to green), but also how tailored interventions can be implemented within sites (how to green). The proposed approach was tested in Tangshan, a typical resource-exhausted city in China, demonstrating how ES assessments can guide both strategic planning and detailed planning of BG. The findings advance the integration of NbS into spatial planning at multiple levels, offering actionable guidance for policy-makers, urban planners and landscape architects. Beyond the case study, the approach also provides insights into managing land abandonment in shrinking cities worldwide, contributing to more effective and transferable urban greening strategies.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e161208

Authors: Dung Ngo, Gioi Phung, Hoi Nguyen, Duong Hoang

Abstract: Coral reef ecosystems are crucial in coastal areas, providing valuable ecosystem services to humans. They are highly biodiverse and act as significant carbon sinks. Coral reef ecosystem conservation is a pressing issue for the world's most vulnerable ecosystems. Mapping coral reef ecosystems using satellite imagery enables informed decision-making for their restoration and protection, facilitating effective management strategies. With the help of machine-learning models and object-based image analysis (OBIA), this study constructed a map showing where coral reef ecosystems are found in Bai Tu Long National Park, Vietnam. The map was created using Sentinel-2 satellite images. The classification results revealed an overall accuracy (OA) of 91.70%, corresponding to a kappa coefficient of 0.89. The highest spectral reflection characteristic for coral reef ecosystems is in the blue spectral band and the lowest is in the SWIR2 spectral band. To understand the composition of these reefs, field surveys were conducted. The results of field surveys revealed that the coral reef ecosystem in Bai Tu Long National Park included nine families, 20 varieties and 32 species. Finally, this study has shown that a map of the distribution of coral reef ecosystems via satellite images and an object-based image analysis method combined with a machine-learning model is a valuable tool for the management and conservation of coral reef ecosystems. The findings of this study play an important role in providing data for the restoration and conservation of coral reef ecosystems in coastal areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e163691

Authors: Mateja Šmid Hribar, Anže Japelj, Ilona Rac, Suzana Vurunić, Daniela Ribeiro

Abstract: This study assesses the process of developing and testing a protocol that integrates a participatory approach for selecting, ranking and assessing ecosystem services (ES), to enhance their integration into the management of protected areas in Slovenia. Through five participatory workshops across ten pilot sites in both protected and non-protected areas, stakeholders have selected and ranked ES relevant to them. In parallel, we developed a typology of (sub)ecosystems and assessed the availability of their geospatial data with a panel of representatives from the participating protected areas and other nature conservation institutions. In assessing ES, we focused on three specific ES: forage provision, pollination and recreation and leisure, which we assessed using different methods. Our findings highlight the critical role of stakeholder involvement in the ES framework, particularly in accurate mapping and assessment processes facilitated by GIS technologies. A comparative analysis of three ES supply revealed generally higher capacities for pollination and recreation and leisure in protected areas, in contrast to provisioning services, such as forage provision, which did not show a similar pattern; however, exceptions were noted. A significant challenge identified was the scarcity of relevant geospatial data, which reduces the potential of generating precise and reliable assessments and maps necessary for uptake into concrete management of protected areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e159702

Authors: Mei Hua Yuan, Te-Hsiu Huang, Hoda Fakour, Moslem Imani, I Chou

Abstract: The interconnected nature of the food-energy-water (FEW) nexus underscores its significant impact on ecosystem services. Despite its importance, limited progress has been made in incorporating ecosystem service assessment tools into FEW nexus analysis and decision-making. This study examines how ecosystem service assessment tools incorporate interdisciplinarity and intradisciplinarity in the context of the FEW nexus, with the aim of informing future tool development and enhancing nexus governance. An integrated evaluation framework, based on interdisciplinary and intradisciplinary indicators, was developed. The framework was applied through expert elicitation to assess six ecosystem service assessment tools relevant to the FEW nexus. This study finds that, while ecosystem service assessment tools exhibit considerable variation in intradisciplinary performance, their interdisciplinary scores are consistently low and narrowly distributed. The study also finds that, while ecosystem service tools are widely applied across FEW systems, none provides a fully integrated nexus framework. Their strengths lie in connectivity and innovation within the assessment domain, whereas weak performance in empowerment under the accessibility domain. As a key contribution, this study introduces a decision tree to guide tool selection, based on FEW nexus needs. This study suggests that existing tools primarily support only basic integration of FEW systems and highlights the need for more comprehensive evaluation indicators.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e166980

Authors: Madan Lal, Ankeet Bhagat, Shakoor Ahmed, Arvinder Kaur

Abstract: The present study was undertaken to explore the earthworm diversity in the Bani Valley, situated at an elevation range of 1200-2000 m above sea level, in the western Himalayan Region. Over the course of two years (March 2021 to January 2023), eight earthworm species were documented in three distinct habitat-types (forest, orchard and crop field), characterised by varying levels of anthropogenic interference. Notably, the crop field habitat exhibited highest earthworm density as well as biomass, while the forest habitat was observed to exhibit least earthworm abundance despite negligible human interference. Year-wise comparison showed that Octolasion tyrtaeum exhibited the highest mean density during both the years [34.31± 2.54 m-² (2021-22) and 27.91 ± 1.88 m-² (2022-23)], while the least density was recorded for Amynthas corticis (2.84 ± 1.06 m-²) during 2021-22, but for Drawida nepalensis (1.60 ± 0.63 m-²) during 2022-23 period. Moreover, an aggressive dominance of exotic earthworm species was observed in the study area with the occurrence of only one native species i.e. Drawida nepalensis. Maximum Likelihood Phylogram analysis of different earthworm species revealed three major clades, largely consistent with classical taxonomy. However, intergeneric clustering between Drawida nepalensis and Octolasion tyrtaeum suggests a potential case of cryptic similarity warranting further investigation. Analysis of Variance followed by multivariate ordination through canonical correspondence analysis suggested that the earthworm community structure was governed by the interactive effects of different soil physico-chemical properties. Despite the valuable insights with regard to earthworm diversity of the Bani Valley, further investigations are required in other unexplored patches to develop a comprehensive inventory of the earthworm fauna of the Himalayan Region.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e163068

Authors: Paula Rendón, Michelle Watson, Bálint Czúcz, Karl Ruf, Stefan Kleeschulte, Fernando Santos-Martín

Abstract: This study presents an overview of the integration of national, European and global ecosystem typologies used in European countries to support ecosystem condition assessments and policy reporting obligations. The aim is to understand the development and integration of ecosystem typologies for assessing ecosystems at national level, both under obligatory EU reporting requirements and beyond, in support of the European Union (EU) implementation of the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting - Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA EA). Based on the review of literature and a comprehensive survey, the progress in ecosystem typologies development, condition assessment and data sources were identified for thirty-one countries (EU27 countries, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Norway and Israel). Additionally, the study provides an overview of European/global ecosystem typologies, habitat classifications and land-cover classification systems, tracing their evolution and highlighting their role in addressing global environmental challenges. National level typologies, constituting around 52% of the typologies identified, were found to be compatible with at least one international typology, such as the European Nature Information System (EUNIS) or the land-cover typology of Coordination of Information on the Environment (CORINE) and the ecosystem typology applied by the EU Mapping and Assessment of Ecosystems and their Services (MAES) initiative. The study discusses principles for designing condition-enabled ecosystem typologies, emphasising the use of ecologically homogeneous classes supported by functional definitions, that are also practical operationalisable at appropriate spatial and temporal scales. It also highlights the crucial role of crosswalks in linking different typologies for international comparability. The integration of national, European/global ecosystem typologies is essential for advancing ecosystem assessment and management efforts, considering their growing relevance in policy- and decision-making within countries and international bodies, such as the United Nations and the EU.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e161992

Authors: Rosa Anna Mascolo, Riccardo Giuseppe Boschetto, Alessio Capriolo

Abstract: This paper presents a first national-scale application of Regulation (EU) 2024/3024 on ecosystem accounts, focusing on the physical quantification of seven ecosystem services in Italy. It describes the development of pilot accounts using the Eurostat guidelines and applying the INCA tool. Spatial data and official statistics are integrated to assess ecosystem contributions, enabling a disaggregation by ecosystem type and land cover. The results highlight both the methodological feasibility and the data limitations, particularly regarding spatial resolution and national specificity. The accounting approach reveals the distinct role of ecosystems in providing biophysical outputs, clarifying their contribution compared to human inputs. The analysis also confirms that accounting tables and maps can support policy integration, spatial planning and the assessment of sustainability trade-offs. The study contributes to the implementation of ecosystem accounting in Europe, offering insights for future improvements in data quality and institutional cooperation.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e158806

Authors: Hue Le, Tam Tran, Son Nguyen, Duong La, Nhan Vu, Mai Huong Le, Hoai Nguyen

Abstract: Bacillus velezensis (B. velezensis) is widely recognised for its remarkable ability to tolerate environmental stresses, partly through the production of exopolysaccharides (EPS), which enhance survival via biofilm formation. In this study, we characterised a salt-tolerant, EPS-producing strain, B. velezensis DTA1, isolated from a coral island in Vietnam. This strain exhibited significant tolerance to salinity and various heavy metals, including cadmium, mercury, chromium, arsenic, lead, zinc and cobalt. EPS production increased significantly under salt stress. Whole genome sequencing analysis revealed several genes encoding phosphotransferase system transport proteins and enzymes that facilitate the conversion of various carbon sources into corresponding nucleotide sugars in the DTA1. The eps and levan biosynthetic gene clusters related to EPS biosynthetic pathways were detected in the DTA1 genome explaining its ability to produce EPS. Furthermore, the EPS yield and structural composition of this strain are strongly governed by the sugar source used. The study strain also harbours multiple genes related to osmotic stress, heavy metal stress and oxidative stress. Unlike previous studies focusing solely on EPS yield or biological activity, this work provides an integrated view of the genetic, biochemical and environmental factors governing EPS biosynthesis and stress tolerance in B. velezensis DTA1. This study provides the first insight into the genetic potential and biochemical traits of a B. velezensis strain adapted to the extreme conditions of an offshore coral island. Our findings not only deepen the understanding of this strain’s stress adaptation mechanisms, but also reveal its unique EPS biosynthetic potential via two distinct pathways, the epsA–O operon and levan synthesis, which have not previously been reported together in B. velezensis. Furthermore, this study expands the potential application of indigenous halophilic bacteria to improve arid, saline coral sand and coastal soils, especially in the context of Vietnam, which is experiencing the escalating impacts of climate change that are expanding the area of saline soils and threatening the sustainability of agriculture.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e151491

Authors: Lola Leveau, Nicolas Biot, Guillaume Lobet, Pierre Bertin

Abstract: The transition from intensive crop production to more sustainable practices, such as ecologically intensive cropping systems, requires precise, field-based assessments of Ecosystem Services (ES). These assessments depend on selecting appropriate indicators that can measure the supply of ES directly within crop fields. Despite the growing recognition of the ES role in sustainable agriculture, comprehensive lists of field-applicable indicators remain scarce. To address this gap, we present and discuss a collection of 128 indicators for assessing provisioning and regulating ES in cropping systems, specifically designed for in situ, empirical measurements. The collection aims to support researchers and practitioners in selecting context-specific indicators that enhance site-specific knowledge for developing sustainable cropping systems. It was derived from an exhaustive previously published list, which included 507 indicators applicable across various ecosystem types and linked to various data collection methods. We filtered that exhaustive list using three criteria: applicability to crop fields, level in the ES cascade model (including ecosystem property, ecosystem function and human benefit, but excluding value and adding and including a new level of dis-service) and method of data collection (including field observation and remote sensing, but excluding all indirect methods). In the resulting dataset, including 128 indicators, we analysed the distribution of indicators across the different ES, cascade levels and methods of data collection to identify potential gaps in indicator availability that could hinder comprehensive assessments of the ES provided in crop fields. This analysis highlighted significant disparities in indicator distribution, notably concerning the levels of ES cascade quantifiables, as a vast majority of indicators for regulating ES quantify ecological properties or functions, while most indicators for provisioning ES quantify human benefits. We also identified a lack of indicators for air quality regulation, life cycle maintenance and water provision and, in contrast, a multiplicity of indicators employed for soil quality regulation and pollination. We discuss the reasons and consequences of these disparities and we underscore the importance of staying alert to emerging indicators driven by recent research trends and technological advancements, such as remote sensing.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e154549

Authors: Verena Knöll, Matthias Falke, Gan Jing, Zheng Chen, Nannan Dong, Harald Zepp

Abstract: In the international scientific literature, ecosystem services (ES) and green infrastructure (GI) have rapidly emerged as promising frameworks for sustainable and resilient urban planning and development. At the science‒policy interface, a knowledge and implementation gap concerning ES and GI exists in many countries. In this paper, we analyse how the ES concept and GI principles are reflected in the narratives, which the Shanghai Master Plan tests to the Master Plans of all nine suburban Shanghai district Master Plans. Based on linguistic preprocessing, we systematically searched for the explicit and implicit references of ES and GI in the official documents. We found 802 relevant text passages and interpreted them according to their context-specific appearance.The analysis revealed that ES are not comprehensively integrated within the Shanghai Master Plan and the district Master Plans of Baoshan, Chongming, Fengxian, Jiading, Jinshan, Minhang, Pudong, Qingpu and Songjiang. The term ES was not explicitly used in any of the Master Plans. Instead, several terms were found that indicate conceptual similarity. By implicitly taking ES into account and prioritizing them, the districts' master plans reflect the characteristics of the natural landscape and land use patterns in their respective administrative areas. While ecological protection has been promoted and GI and ES are implicitly considered in Shanghai's master plans, a complete discursive shift towards a new ecological approach to urban planning, which is consistently based on GI and ES, has not yet been fully achieved in the master plans for all of Shanghai and the suburban districts.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e155968

Authors: Joana Seguin, Sabine Lange, David Barton, Adrienne Grêt-Regamey, Paula Rendón, Philip Roche, Isabel Nicholson Thomas, Benjamin Burkhard

Abstract: This data paper introduces the "SELINA Super-Query," a comprehensive systematic search query developed within the EU-Horizon project SELINA. This framework serves as a foundational tool for subsequent literature reviews and it is accompanied by an open-access database containing 108,064 potentially relevant literature items. The SELINA Super-Query is designed to efficiently identify English-language, peer-reviewed research articles published between 2018 and 2022 in the fields of ecosystem condition, ecosystem services and ecosystem accounting. By employing this unified systematic search strategy in the initial phase of a large research project, follow-up research tasks can effectively build on a consistent, well-defined knowledge base, thereby enhancing the project's overall research cohesion and productivity.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e147848

Authors: Aaron Enriquez, Kenneth Bagstad, Katharine Dahm, Alicia Torregrosa, Rudy Schuster

Abstract: Natural capital accounting has the potential to yield important policy insights at multiple scales, but there remains a disconnect between regional-scale natural capital accounts and their use for informing policy. In this paper, we propose a roadmap that could lead to the creation of policy-relevant regional accounts, with steps split across an initial scoping phase and a subsequent development phase. We demonstrate the scoping steps in action with an application to the Colorado River Basin (“Basin”), a large watershed in the southwestern United States (U.S.) that has faced aridification and substantial high-profile tradeoffs around the use of its water and other natural resources. Drawing on prior U.S. Geological Survey science co-production efforts, we conducted a series of eight discussion sessions with 41 scientists and science representatives whose work is relevant to Basin water, riparian and riverine ecosystems, upland ecosystems and energy and minerals. We summarise participants' thoughts on key topics and economic linkages, their insights and questions of interest and their recommendations on existing scientific data sources and gaps. We evaluate the suitability of the available data for construction of System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) Central Framework and SEEA Ecosystem Accounting accounts, including those for land, water, forests, energy and minerals and ecosystems (covering extent, condition and ecosystem services). We present a series of lessons learned during the scoping phase, as well as lessons that could be relevant for future practitioners engaging in the development phase. The information can help guide the development of timely and relevant regional-scale environmental-economic accounts in the U.S. and beyond.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e145448

Authors: Anabela Paula, Fernando Pulido, Albano Figueiredo, Paula Castro

Abstract: The diverse historical and traditional uses associated with wild edible plants (WEP) and wild edible mushrooms (WEM) make them good examples of natural resources related to both provisioning and cultural ecosystem services (ES). However, the study and mapping of these resources under the ES framework remain unclear. This systematic review aims to fill this gap and identify the methodologies used to study these resources. It also intends to understand whether foraging has reported negative impacts and whether sustainable practices are being adopted. The research question was based on the PEO framework (Population, Exposure, Outcome), and the search followed the PRISMA protocol. The review was based on the 42 articles that met the defined inclusion criteria. The in-depth analysis of each study assessed how the ES framework was approached and whether there was any associated mapping. Whenever benefits associated with WEP&M were described, they were categorised according to the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services (v.5.1) and five provisioning and eleven cultural ES were associated with these wild resources. However, half of the studies only acknowledge its importance as ES without discussing it within the ES framework and only four studies mentioned ES classification systems. Some impacts regarding foraging activity were identified, although most studies listed sustainable practices and did not consider foraging a threat to species conservation.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e153308

Authors: Myriam Mancheno Cárdenas, Ines Malo, Mateo León, Jessica Muñoz, Juan Solorzano, Jorge Rojas

Abstract: Caesalpinia spinosa is a plant species present in South America, capable of adapting to different climatic and edaphic conditions. It is considered a multipurpose species due to its environmental benefits, contributing to the restoration of degraded soils and containing active compounds intended for various industries. Consequently, this study aimed to evaluate the viability, germination and in vitro growth of C. spinosa from seeds in different phenological stages. The development of this research was carried out in parts. First, for the viability study, seeds were classified as immature, mature and overripe, from which embryos were extracted and placed in a 1% tetrazolium salt aqueous solution for 5 hours. Second, the water content in the seeds was determined using thermogravimetric analysis to classify the seeds. Third, the seeds were disinfected with Tween 20 for 10 minutes, 70% EtOH for 1 minute and 1.5% NaClO for 10 minutes. Then, germination pre-treatment was performed with a cut in the distal region of the cotyledon (CT) and removal of the seed coat (ST) and they were cultivated in a basal MS medium supplemented with Gamborg vitamins. The highest viability was observed in immature seeds (SI) and mature seeds (SM), with values of 97.72% and 73.45% and corresponding water content of 52.23% and 7.60%, respectively. Regarding germination, the SI-ST treatment achieved a germination speed of 48.55% at 4 days, while in the interaction of phenological state and scarification, the SI-ST treatment achieved the highest percentage at 93.16%. In terms of growth, the treatments showed no statistically significant differences, with values between 52.26 mm and 64.79 mm. These results indicate that the phenological state of the seeds and the type of scarification are important for obtaining quality seedlings in vitro in a shorter time, which can be used in future reforestation and ecosystem restoration programmes.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e153673

Authors: Silvena Boteva, Ivan Traykov, Boyanka Angelova, Anelia Kenarova

Abstract: Lakes worldwide are under severe pressure from increasing anthropogenic impacts and global warming, creating a growing demand for restoration efforts and sustainable lake management strategies. However, there has been limited practice in restoring high-altitude lakes, particularly those under protected status. This paper focuses on passed lake restoration with special emphasis on the effects of restoration on lake ecosystems. Restoration efforts in four lakes within Rila National Park, Bulgaria, were carried out in two steps: macrophyte harvesting followed by sediment removal. These were immediately followed by a monitoring programme to evaluate the effects of human activities. The most significant effects on nutrient concentrations (PO4-P, NO3-N, TP and TN) and chlorophyll-a levels were observed one week after the restoration, with these effects diminishing one year later. Changes in bacterial metabolism were characterised by a reduction in metabolic activity, a shift from preferential utilisation of carbohydrates and polymers to an increased use of carboxylic acids and a decrease in functional richness and diversity, followed by partial recovery. Some of the changes observed in lake environments and biotic components were attributed to seasonal shifts, while others were linked to the implementation of human activities. We conclude that the initial steps of lake restoration were effective, with minimal to negligible environmental impact. However, the long-term effectiveness of restoration remains uncertain, so the monitoring programme will continue to address still unresolved questions, particularly to distinguish between seasonal and anthropogenic effects on ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e153237

Authors: Duong Ha, Marie-Chantale Pelletier, Akira Weller-Wong, Alia Alshamari, Claire Horner, Glenn Finau

Abstract: This paper explores the application of the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting - Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA-EA) framework in the Derwent Estuary in Tasmania, Australia, which is managed by a not-for-profit organisation. Following the principles of the SEEA-EA, we constructed a set of ecosystem accounts, inclusive of ecosystem extent (covering the key ecosystems present in the Derwent Estuary), ecosystem condition (seagrass and rocky reef) and associated ecosystem services flows (global climate regulation, fish nursery and recreational fishing) in physical and monetary terms. The ecosystem accounts highlight the importance of ecosystems such as seagrass in providing economic benefits and social well-being at the local level. We also identified significant data gaps for marine and coastal environments, which may limit the ability to implement a full set of ecosystem accounts. However, our case study establishes initial steps for the development of marine and coastal ecosystem accounting (EA) in the Derwent Estuary, offers recommendations for organisations and government agencies and provides guidance for potential future research.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e141086

Authors: Arkaitz Usubiaga-Liaño, Odirilwe Selomane, Adrien Comte

Abstract: The System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) remains neutral when it comes to the weak and strong sustainability worldviews. However, although its manuals do not contain any references to these concepts, it can support both through physical and monetary accounting. Given that strong sustainability is better suited to monitor environmental sustainability, we provide insights into how SEEA can contribute to promote the use of strong sustainability indicators.From a strong sustainability perspective, environmental sustainability requires identifying elements of natural capital to be preserved (critical natural capital) and at the level at which they should be preserved (reference values). SEEA and its manuals do not explicitly define the first element, but the concept of 'reference values' is implicitly embedded with the 'ecosystem condition accounts' introduced in the Ecosystem Accounting (EA) manual. As such, EA is the most relevant element of the SEEA in terms of advancing strong sustainability accounting. Given that ecosystem condition accounting is still in its early stages and that ecosystem condition is currently challenging to determine, three actions are proposed to better integrate strong sustainability in SEEA. First, the next revision of the SEEA Central Framework should be more explicit in how SEEA supports weak and strong sustainability. It should also consider how SEEA is linked to the wider indicator landscape (including the Sustainable Development Goals and the Global Biodiversity Framework). Second, ecosystem condition accounting needs to be further developed, as the more abundant extent accounts cannot capture the quality of ecosystems. Third, ecosystem condition accounting could build on other strong sustainability indicator initiatives such as Planetary Boundaries or the Environmental Sustainability Gap framework that have consistently integrated reference values in the accounting practices. These actions would provide additional means to interpret environmental sustainability beyond the direction of progress as is often the case.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e155166

Authors: Teguh Satria Gunawan, Marsha Hamidah, Agavia Kori Rahayu, Nabila Nur Septiani, Jessica Pingkan, Agus Hermansyah, Muhammad Farhan, Rusdatus Sholihah, Angela Belladova Arundina, Diah Retno Minarni, Rahmatia Susanti, Gin Gin Gustiar, Desi Nurulita Kusumastuti, Gabriella Rosya Maharani, Muhammad Dimas Nurhakim, Putri Vency Khalishah, Irgi Fadilah Rahman, Nicky Nugianto, Amehr Hakim, Firdaus Agung, Annisya Rosdiana, Heidi Retnoningtyas, Intan Destianis Hartati, Efin Muttaqin, Sophia German, Jordan Gacutan, Irfan Yulianto

Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive national-scale mapping of Indonesia's coastal ecosystems — coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass — using Sentinel-2 and SPOT satellite imagery. The mapping covers 2018 and 2021, validated with ground-truthing and secondary data and spatial analyses were conducted using modelling and digitisation. This study revealed changes in ecosystem extent where coral reefs increased from 1,212,207.46 ha in 2018 to 1,216,249.74 ha in 2021, while seagrass expanded from 273,122.60 ha to 273,950.87 ha and mangroves expanded from 3,329,459.72 ha to 3,364,769.05 ha. Despite these overall increases, localised declines were observed due to human-driven degradation, particularly in Fisheries Management Areas 571, 573, 711, 713, 714, 715 and 716. The study highlights the importance of accurate spatial data for ocean accounts, aiding in the calculation of ecosystem services and providing information for marine spatial planning, marine protected areas and fisheries management. We also addressed challenges, including data limitations, technological infrastructure, methodological advancements and time constraints. These findings underscore the need for integrated management and conservation efforts to maintain and enhance the resilience of coastal and marine ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e149055

Authors: Arturo Sanchez-Porras, Aline Romero-Natale, Otilio Acevedo-Sandoval, Edlin Guerra-Castro

Abstract: The conservation of the genetic diversity of native maize in Mexico is a priority due to its cultural, agricultural and environmental importance. This study presents the development and evaluation of the imanr package, a computational tool based on Boosted Ensembles designed to automate the classification of racial complexes of native maize. Using a national database, a model was implemented that leverages morphological and geographical variables to provide precise and rapid classifications. The methodology included the optimisation of key parameters through cross-validation, achieving up to 90% in balanced accuracy and a Cohen's Kappa coefficient of 0.84. These results highlight the robustness of the model compared to traditional methods, which rely on subjective expert judgement and require extended evaluation times. The findings demonstrate that the package not only surpasses conventional methods in terms of efficiency, but also offers an accessible tool for conserving and monitoring native maize diversity, aligning with the recommendations of the Global Maize Project (PGMN). Moreover, its usability was enhanced by developing a graphical user interface, allowing non-specialised users to fully utilise its potential. imanr represents a significant advancement in native maize conservation science, contributing to the modernisation of identification processes and strengthening sustainable management strategies for this essential genetic resource. This model directly addresses the need for innovative tools to monitor and preserve maize diversity in Mexico and suggests a promising pathway for future applications in the agricultural sector.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e150217

Authors: Nguyen Toan, Pham Ngoc, Luu Dung, Nguyen Tue, Tran Quy, Mai Nhuan

Abstract: Mangroves are an important ecosystem in the coastal zone, acting as a natural filter and trapping system of nutrients and pollutants exported from continental environments. The high loading of nutrients in mangrove forests may lead to increasing tree mortality rates, altered forest structure, and biodiversity degradation. In the present study, we analyzed sediment grain size, organic matter content, ammonium, nitrate, and phosphate in sediment cores from different mangrove stands to determine factors influencing nutrient dynamics in mangrove forests in the Red River Delta, Vietnam. Research results showed that the sedimentary organic matter content varied between 5.54 to 8.56%, with an average value of 7.10 ± 0.94%. The nutrient concentrations in mangrove sediment ranged from 0.925 to 32.278 mg/kg, 0.236 to 7.24 mg/kg, and 0.047 to 9.124 mg/kg for ammonium, nitrate, and phosphate, respectively. Nutrient concentrations in the top layer of sediment cores decrease gradually with increasing distance from aquaculture ponds, highlighting the impact of aquaculture discharge on nutrient dynamics in coastal areas. Organic matter and nutrient concentrations were highest in the surface layer (0–20 cm depth), declining steadily between 20–50 cm, with minimal variation from 50–100 cm in depth of sediment cores. The present study results suggested that aquaculture activities and mangrove stands significantly influence nutrient dynamics in mangrove sediments. Ongoing monitoring is necessary to determine the long-term impacts of aquaculture on mangrove forests and adjacent coastal ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e149010

Authors: Gema Casal, Catarina Fonseca, Elena Allegri, Angelica Bianconi, Emily Boyd, Cindy C. Cornet, Silvia de Juan, Fabiola Espinoza Córdova, Elisa Furlan, Artur Gil, Torsten Krause, Jean-Philippe Maréchal, Tim McCarthy, Ozan Özkiper, Géraldine Pérez, Hung Voung Pham, Callum Roberts, Rémy Simide, Christian Simeoni, Daisy Taylor, Rafaela Tiengo, Ewan Trégarot, Jéssica Uchôa, Bethan O'Leary

Abstract: Interconnected societal challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and food security demand immediate and coordinated action across local to global scales, guided by coherent policies and management mechanisms. Reflecting on the critical need to address societal challenges, Nature-based Solutions in marine and coastal environments, known as blue NBS, have emerged as an important part of the response strategy. Blue NBS integrate actions to protect and restore marine and coastal ecosystems while managing human impacts, embedding nature and people into decision-making through multifaceted approaches. However, blue NBS implementation trails terrestrial NBS. To effectively inform blue NBS implementation, research must produce actionable science that is relevant, timely and usable, requiring collaboration and active knowledge exchange across the science-policy-practitioner interface. Working with stakeholders, we developed the MaCoBioS Blue NBS Toolbox to begin addressing some of the barriers facing blue NBS implementation. Containing a collection of multi-disciplinary, scientifically-grounded and stakeholder-informed tools and products, the toolbox guides practitioners through different stages of blue NBS implementation. This toolbox provides an important initial set of resources to support the design and implementation of effective blue NBS and pave the way for further collaborative work to operationalise these tools in different social-ecological contexts.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e135722

Authors: Roger Sarmiento, Patricia Abella, Shiela Mae Handayan, Jasmen Madelo, Joel Mercado, Roselyn Palaso

Abstract: Riparian zones within watersheds serve as vital interfaces between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, supporting key ecological and environmental processes. Despite their critical importance, these ecosystems are increasingly threatened by human activities. This study evaluated tree species diversity and estimated carbon density in the riparian zones downstream of the Andanan River Watershed Forest Reserve through a systematic sampling method conducted across 12 plots. Two hundred and eighty-eight individual trees were recorded, encompassing 32 species from 17 families and 27 genera. The tree population included 19 native and 13 non-native species, with five native species endemic to the Philippines. Notably, eight species identified are listed on the Philippine or IUCN Red Lists of Threatened Species. The Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (H’=2.76) indicated moderate species diversity, while the estimated carbon content was 83.15 ± 17.49 MgC ha-1. Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) analysis revealed that 1,525.305 hectares of the protected area, including approximately 729.07 hectares of riparian zones, have been converted into industrial tree plantations, leading to the displacement of natural forest species. These findings underscore the urgent need for policy interventions to restore a balance between natural and plantation species in protected areas, thereby preserving biodiversity, enhancing carbon sequestration and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e139690

Authors: Radenka Mitova

Abstract: Recreational impacts on water resources are a current issue in the scientific literature, but remain insufficiently studied. This is particularly relevant to the Seven Rila Lakes (Rila National Park, Bulgaria), where recreational activities are believed to accelerate eutrophication. Given the lack of targeted research, this study investigates how hiking trails in the catchment areas of five of the lakes contribute to the deterioration of the lakes’ ecosystems. A Spearman’s rank correlation analysis was conducted to examine: (1) abiotic environmental factors and (2) key characteristics of tourist trails, alongside data for assessing the lakes' ecological status, based on Biological Quality Elements (BQE). The results indicate that, while natural factors are the primary drivers, recreational pressure has a secondary impact. It is suggested that the expansion and degradation of informal trails may introduce substances into the lake waters, causing changes in physicochemical parameters. These changes, although minor, appear to affect phytoplankton and zooplankton communities, ultimately influencing the trophic status of the lakes.The study underscores the need for regular monitoring of both the ecological status of the lakes and the trail conditions in the lakes' catchments and also visitor management measures. Further research with expanded datasets and scale is recommended to refine these findings.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e141583

Authors: Markus Zaplata

Abstract: In addition to the aspects of power generation, land use, aesthetics, nature conservation, and multifunctionality considered so far, there are still overlooked issues in the relatively new topic of solar landscapes. I reveal a connection with a supposedly not equally contemporary theme: ecological succession. Understanding succession provides the background for interrelationships, and explains why, in large solar parks, the occurrence of large operational disruptors, such as trees, cannot be sustainably countered with the usual maintenance measures. Woody plants benefit from the thousands of safe sites amongst the modular panel constructions, and softwoods often avoid being cut due to their flexibility, or grow back from their stumps. Stronger and stronger over time. Instead of relying exclusively on labour-intensive and costly mowing, managers can make use of grazing animals. In this way, simply anticipating the ecological succession process and taking it into account when planning and managing a solar park can boost overall sustainability. The recommendation makes connections with social dimensions and can result in ethically produced meat.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e142064

Authors: Mai-Phuong Pham, Thi Thu Trang Hoang, Van Dien Pham, Thanh Trang Pham, Dinh Duy Vu

Abstract: Bruguiera hainesii is a rare mangrove species with limited populations worldwide, but there is lack of detailed knowledge about its population size and distribution in Vietnam. Its regeneration capacity is notably low, raising concerns about its long-term survival. This study aims to model the bioclimatic niche of B. hainesii to identify potential ecological regions in Vietnam suitable for its conservation and survival under current and future climate scenarios. Occurrence data were collected from the global GBIF database and recent field surveys in Vietnam conducted during 2023–2024. The Maxent model was used to predict bioclimatic suitability, with projections extended to future climate scenarios using ACCESS-CM2 under SSP2-4.5 (medium-emission scenario) for 2080–2100. The study identified Vietnam as a highly suitable region for B. hainesii despite its small population size. Projections indicate a potential expansion of ideal habitats under future climate conditions, highlighting the species' adaptability. The findings provide valuable insights into the conservation of B. hainesii, emphasising the importance of preserving existing populations and managing suitable habitats to ensure the species' long-term survival and regeneration. This research also underscores the role of bioclimatic niche modelling in guiding conservation strategies for endangered mangroves.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.10.e108556

Authors: Anna Bronzes, Lars Hein, Rolf Groeneveld, Alim Pulatov

Abstract: Assigning an economic value to cultural ecosystem services is important to promote their sustainable and rational use. Valuation of such services requires a non-market approach as they are not traded on markets and, thus, have no directly observable market price. The System of Environmental-Economic Accounting – Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA-EA) aims to develop a systematic approach to value ecosystem services aligned with the valuation approach of the national accounts. However, valuing cultural services in SEEA-EA is challenging and different approaches have been developed. In this study, we compare four prominent approaches for valuing cultural ecosystem services: resource rent, travel cost method, simulated exchange value and consumer expenditure. We test and compare these methods in a case study of Ugam Chatkal State Nature National Park in Uzbekistan and examine to what degree the methods are aligned with accounting valuation principles. We note that the methods assess value in a different way and, accordingly, we find considerable differences amongst approaches in recreational value: values ranged between US$1.62M and US$65.19M annually. The lowest value was provided by the resource rent approach and the highest value by the travel cost method including consumer surplus. This latter method is not aligned with SEEA-EA accounting; however, even the three methods that are aligned with accounting principles provide quite different value estimates. The two other approaches, simulated exchange value and consumer expenditure, provided an annual value of US$24.46M and US$13.5M, respectively. We find that a resource rent method is likely to underestimate the 'true' value of the service when used for accounting and that the simulated exchange value method seems to be best aligned with the valuation needs for cultural services for SEEA-EA.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e138839

Authors: Elina Virtanen, Louise Forsblom, Liisa Saikkonen, Susanna Jernberg, Markku Viitasalo, Soile Kulmala

Abstract: Ecosystem accounting provides a standardised framework for evaluating the economic value of ecosystems to society. Following the international accounting standard, System of Environmental Economic Accounting – Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA EA), we present first marine ecosystem extent pilot accounts for Finland, based on three habitat classification systems: the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), the EU Habitats Directive (HD) and the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems (RLE). We assess their condition using indicators from the Water Framework Directive, which measure ecosystem quality through biological, ecological and physico-chemical parameters.We found that MSFD habitats have the largest extent, exceeding the areas covered by HD and RLE habitats. A large portion of the assessed habitats, particularly in the inner archipelago and shallow areas close to shore, were in poor condition, reflecting the eutrophication status of coastal waters. We identify considerable challenges in reporting marine ecosystem extent and condition accounts, which most likely recur across (European) countries. For instance, MSFD habitats are rather coarse for accurately reporting ecosystem extents, potentially overlooking declines in ecosystem condition, while HD habitats cover only a subset of habitats. RLE habitats provide more ecological detail, although they may be less compatible with classifications used in other countries.Our research provides a baseline for future ecosystem accounts and emphasises the need for improved data and methods to enhance the accuracy and comparability of marine ecosystem assessments. Additionally, we discuss the compatibility of SEEA EA with EU policy reporting requirements, the spatial scale of reporting ecosystem extents and condition and highlight the limitations of current habitat classifications in representing the full diversity of marine ecosystems. The findings underscore the importance of integrating multiple habitat classification systems, development of crosswalks between habitat classifications and monitoring frameworks to ensure comprehensive and accurate ecosystem accounts.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e136166

Authors: Antoaneta Frantzova, Plamen Ivanov, Nikolai Dobrev, Boyko Berov, Rosen Nankin, Miroslav Krastanov, Boyko Ranguelov

Abstract: In recent years, society become much more interested in nature disasters that cause damage. The consequences of these destructive processes of a meteorological, hydrological and geological nature sometimes remain for years until the affected areas are recultivated, restored and recovered. These natural processes work together, often following each other or triggering each other to create a massive system of destruction that causes a lot of damage and often leads to death and numerous casualties.Moreover, with the changes in the global climate of the Planet, leading to the more frequent manifestation of more destructive natural phenomena - cyclones, storms, huge amounts of precipitation - lead to intensify and manifest in larger scales and volumes geological phenomena such as landslides, mudflows, mud - stone torrents, rockfalls, collapses of different character of slopes, linear and planar erosion etc.This is extremely relevant for Bulgaria, the territory for which is no exception to the manifestation of catastrophic natural phenomena. The country is located in an active orogenic zone as part of the Alpo-Himalayan tectonic belt, characterised by a complex tectonic structure, variable and diverse geological formations and rapid topographical changes.The main focus in the study is to present an advanced, multi-faceted framework for natural disaster risk assessment, integrating biodiversity and archaeological sites. Moreover, the assessments of natural risks made so far do not include sufficient attention to biotopes and archaeological and historical sites.The presented methodology is applied to landslide hazards in a pre-selected area along the northern Bulgarian Black Sea coast. The main goal of this paper is to identify socio-environmental risks in the studied region, as well as to construct risk profiles and visually represent both qualitative and quantitative risk levels in the socio-ecological system and biodiversity.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e133091

Authors: Lora Stoeva, Miglena Zhiyanski

Abstract: The aim of this study is to test the suitability of the SoilGrids system for ecosystem reporting, research and monitoring. The study is conducted in the Rila Mountains in Bulgaria, an area characterised by diverse ecological factors. We propose a methodological approach to compare SoilGrids predictions with independent point observations, addressing issues of inconsistency across survey layers when combining data from different sources. The comparative analysis is discussed in respect to point data, soil type, altitude and climate. The results show that the SoilGrids represents the main soil parameters well in terms of their dynamics over the altitudinal range. There is a good agreement between the observed and predicted values for the averages of the parameters - bulk density, coarse fraction, soil organic carbon (SOC) content and SOC stock. The average measured SOC stock (0-30 cm) is 58.54 t/ha, while the average predicted SOC stock (0-30 cm) is 55.38 t/ha. However, the study also showed that the predicted values for nitrogen content are almost two times higher than the observed figures and the pH values from the SoilGrids are less acidic than those measured in the field.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e127449

Authors: Yutong Zhang, Yuzhu Sui, Guangze Jin, Hongfeng Wang

Abstract: The Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forest is a unique pine forest type in Northeast China. The species grows normally under extremely adverse conditions because it has a strong tolerance to poor soils and drought. It also benefits the ecological environment significantly through water conservation, soil improvement and windbreak and sand fixation, thus making it an important pioneer species for improving site conditions. This paper systematically analyzes the geographical distribution, ecological and community characteristics, species composition and classification of Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests in China through field surveys and literature review. The main findings are:(1) Based on the dominant species of each layer, Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests can be divided into two categories of associations: Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis - Rhododendron dauricum - Carex callitrichos association and Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis + Quercus mongolica - Lespedeza bicolor - Carex caespitosa association.(2) According to sample plot surveys, a total of 134 vascular plant species, belonging to 59 families and 104 genera, were recorded in natural Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests. Amongst them were one fern species, two gymnosperm species and 131 angiosperm species.(3) The composition of life forms in Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests is dominated by terrestrial herbs, with fewer woody plants and with vines making up the smallest proportion.(4) The Pinus densiflora var. ussuriensis forests located on the hillocks of Xingkai Lake are in decline. If the soil in this area continues to increase in wetness, this community may eventually evolve into a broad-leaved mixed forest.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e134022

Authors: Vanya Stoycheva, Stoyan Nedkov

Abstract: Increasing climate change has led to an increase in urban flood events. Events with a return period of twenty years become events with a period of two to three years. The primary objectives of this study are to evaluate the performance of flood regulation models using different input data and compare their performance for flood regulation supply (FRS) assessment. The assessment of the ecosystem services of urban FRS was performed using two models: Urban Flood Risk Mitigation (UFRM) by Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) and IMECOGIP Waterflow Regulation (Retention Model) (WRRM). They rely on relatively accessible open-source data, require a short time to model each scenario and provide opportunities to interpret results in different spatial and measurement units. We performed several improvements to the input data, including updating the national ecosystem-type assessment for the case study area by connecting it with the Urban Atlas typology and proposing an approach for soil data refinement. The outputs of the two models show significant differences in FRS values for each land-use/land-cover (LULC) class. The UFRM assesses different impervious urban classes with different values, varying from very low to medium. In contrast, the WRRM assesses the FRS in densely sealed areas with one fixed value for low supply (where nearly all rainfall is transformed into runoff).

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e133645

Authors: Lanfang Zhou, Shengjun Wu, Maohua Ma, Hang Zou, Jinxia Huang, Jun Yang

Abstract: Rhizosphere microbial communities are believed to be vital in the adaption of dominant plants to strong waterlogging stress in the water-level-fluctuation zone (WLFZ). However, limited knowledge is available on their patterns in the WLFZ under distinct waterlogging stresses. Here, rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere bacterial and fungal communities derived from two typical dominant plants (Rumex acetosa L. and Oxybasis glauca) in the WLFZ of Three Gorges Reservoir, China were analysed through high-throughput sequencing. A total of 63 phyla, 173 classes, 259 orders, 287 families and 518 genera of bacteria, as well as 15 phyla, 50 classes, 124 orders, 265 families and 652 genera of fungi were detected in soils with different waterlogging stress intensities. The most dominant bacterial and fungal phyla in each sample are Proteobacteria and Ascomycota, respectively. Bacteria and fungi in soil may increase their microbial ɑ diversity under the intensity of waterlogging stress to cope with this stress. LEfSe analysis showed that the impact of waterlogging stress on fungal community structure in soil is more prominent than that on bacteria. Key fungal biomarkers can be found in each soil sample, but in many samples, key bacterial biomarkers cannot be found. The metabolic pathways related to aerobic respiration type I and de novo biosynthesis of adenosine ribonucleotides dominate in the microbial community. Redundancy analysis revealed that the structure of rhizosphere microbial communities in different plants is significantly influenced by environmental factors. This study provides a theoretical basis for understanding the relationship between plants and their second genome (rhizosphere microorganisms) in extreme habitats, such as the WLFZ of large reservoirs.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e133158

Authors: Toni Klemm

Abstract: Participatory modelling (PM) is a transdisciplinary research approach that involves stakeholder in a modelling process to develop or improve qualitative or quantitative models. To better understand the potential uses of PM in the emerging field of agroecology living lab research, I conducted a systematic search of the peer-reviewed literature and describe 78 participatory agri-environmental case studies in this dataset. Bibliographic data are included and each case study is described in terms of main goal(s), PM method(s) used, involved stakeholders and their contributions and the level of stakeholder participation in the project. I also extracted key metadata (if available), such as publication type and year, study location (country), funding source, project duration and outcomes beyond publications. This dataset adds value by revealing clusters and associations of methods and goals, by showing the dominating role of researchers in this type of participatory research, by pointing out the absence of PM in certain areas of agricultural production, such as hydroponic farming or viticulture and by providing a comprehensive foundation for the related research article. It also contained data not used in the related research article that could provide a basis for future research, such as linking methods, goals and stakeholder involvement with other metadata or comparing this agri-environmental research and other areas.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e134088

Authors: Quoc Khanh Nguyen, Hanh Tong, Liem Nguyen, Thu Nga Nguyen, Trung Dung Ngo, Nguyen Hong Quang, Anh Tu Dinh, Mai-Phuong Pham

Abstract: The landscapes in the Hinh River Basin are crucial and highly sensitive to climate change for the coastal province of Phu Yen and the entire south-central coastal region of Vietnam, offering vital environmental services to its downstream areas. Hinh River Basin has a rich system of rivers and streams and abundant surface water resources. However, it remains one of the region's top localities at risk and a very vulnerable region. This study aims to evaluate the changes in landscape (LC) over 10 years (2010-2023) and predict LC over the next six years using machine-learning (ML) algorithms on Google Earth Engine. To achieve these study goals, we establish: (i) potential environmental fragility (PEF) levels based on: terrain slope; geological domains; river hierarchy; percentage of sand in soil; annual mean precipitations; and (ii) emergent environmental fragility (EEF) levels through the addition of LC parameter to model. The methodology includes integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) into a Geographic Information System (GIS). Results show that three LC types (water, annual industrial crop, forest) are related to extremely high EEF. The predictive model suggests that, by 2030, the forest and annual industrial crop LCs in the study area will increase by around 20%. The analysis results show that there has been an increase in the area of planted forests, which can confirm the futher effectiveness of agricultural, forestry, afforestation and forest protection programmes in the study area (Plan for the implementation of forestry development strategy for the period 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050, Phu Yen Province, No 126/KH-UBND 13/7/2021; and Decision on the approval of the project for planting 15 million trees in Phu Yen Province for the period 2021-2025, No 1646/QĐ-UBND 16/11/2021).

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e131969

Authors: Aline Romero-Natale, Otilio Acevedo-Sandoval, Arturo Sanchez-Porras

Abstract: The Milpa System is an ancient agroecosystem that has played a crucial role in Mesoamerican agriculture for over 9,000 years, particularly in Mexico and Central America. This system provides essential ecosystem services, such as food production, soil quality restoration, biodiversity conservation and the transmission of ecological knowledge. The objective of this systematic review is to inventory and analyse the potential ecosystem services provided by the Milpa System and similar maize-based intercropping systems. The review followed the PRISMA methodology, ensuring rigorous and reproducible research across studies published worldwide in English and Spanish between 2017 and 2023. The analysis included 47 studies that identified a total of 38 distinct ecosystem services. Amongst these, five provisioning services were identified, with 32 articles highlighting food provision. Twenty regulation and maintenance services were discussed, with biodiversity conservation being the most prominent, mentioned in 24 articles. However, cultural services were under-represented, appearing in only 12 articles. Despite the limited research on the Milpa System’s ecosystem services, particularly outside of Mexico, the findings underscore the system’s critical role in promoting agricultural resilience, ensuring food security and conserving biodiversity. This review emphasises the need for increased research to preserve and promote the Milpa System as a sustainable agricultural model that contributes to the well-being of both local communities and broader ecosystems.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e131326

Authors: Karsten Grunewald, Roland Zieschank, Johannes Förster, Bernd Hansjürgens, Tobias Wildner

Abstract: An intact, species-rich natural environment forms the basis for human life. It provides clean water, nourishment and sufficient space for a wide variety of activities and experiences. However, while the services provided by functioning ecosystems are recognised in environmental reports, the factor of natural capital has to date hardly played any role in economic calculations and company balance sheets.It is vital that public and corporate reporting systems take account of natural assets and ecosystem services because this is the only way to ensure that they are given sufficient consideration in political and economic decision-making processes. The introduction of this new and transparent form of economic reporting is also being called for and supported internationally by the United Nations, the World Bank and the European Commission.Against this background, our article looks at the question of how biodiversity and ecosystem services can be incorporated into economic reporting at governmental and corporate level. It was written as part of the project “Appreciating biodiversity – modernising economic accounting in Germany” (Bio-Mo-D), whose aim is to provide a range of actors from business, politics and society at large with information to enable them to make integrated, ecologically sustainable decisions – and thus to demand and support a greater appreciation of nature, measurable via key indicators on biological diversity and ecosystem services.In the following, we first provide an overview of information sources and data products for ecosystem accounts available at national level in Germany. We focus on Germany, but in an EU and global context. The results of these accounting systems, which can be integrated into political and economic decision-making, should be easily understood by the general public and provide a basis for scientific analyses. As “flow” variables, information on ecosystem services contributes to societal well-being by improving decision-making processes, in particular, by demanding and supporting a greater appreciation of nature, measurable via biodiversity and ecosystem service indicators.A new paradigm is emerging both in companies globally and within European regulations, namely the explicit consideration of nature and its services as the basis for holistic corporate reporting, management and financing. As impacts on biodiversity and ecosystems, as well as interdependencies between ecosystem services, can be highly specific, depending on the sector, company activity and location, more detailed, sector-specific information will be needed in the future – ideally also from national accounting. Finally, we look at which institutions and actors can influence the field of action and discuss how the process of expanding economic reporting to include natural capital can be viewed as a “social innovation”.We postulate that ecosystem data and indicators are relevant to economic policy because they open up room for manoeuvre and can be used to identify solution pathways. They help national authorities and institutions as well as lower tier authorities identify potential conflicts of interest when planning areas relevant to nature conservation, to justify decisions on the conservation of natural capital and to communicate these to stakeholders and the wider public.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e129751

Authors: Alice Bartolini, Valentina Di Gennaro*, Vittoria Reas, Rosa Anna Mascolo, Alessandra La Notte, Alessio Capriolo, Silvia Ferrini

Abstract: This work presents the first ecosystem accounts for Marine-Based Tourism (MBT) in Italy. We develop a methodological approach to connect biophysical and economic information required to fill ecosystem accounting supply and use tables. Coherent with the System of Environmental Economic Accounting – Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA EA) framework, this approach starts by estimating the extent and the condition of marine ecosystems, showing the urgency in improving the availability, organisation and accessibility of biophysical data. This work provides valuable insights into understanding MBT from an ecosystem accounting perspective. We focus on the Posidonia oceanica and its role in the MBT sector in Italy, providing a physical quantification of such contribution and converting this flow into monetary terms. Our findings show that such habitat significantly contributes to the tourism sector, resulting in exchange values of MBT of €6 million in 2019 and €3.7 million in 2021.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e127698

Authors: Pablo Wilson Arévalo, Valeria Patricia Orellana, Paula Gabriela Brito López, Ximena Jamileth Cajamarca

Abstract: Plastic, a product of industrialization, has become an integral part of human life since its inception. Its extensive usage has led to a drastic increase in production, resulting in the widespread accumulation of plastic waste at various levels. Improper disposal practices have compounded this issue, transforming plastic waste into a significant environmental concern. Factors such as the sheer volume of plastic generated, inadequate management, persistent accumulation, and fragmentation exacerbate this problem. Of particular concern is the prevalence of microplastics, tiny particles measuring less than 5mm, which have permeated various natural ecosystems and have been detected within living organisms. For example, bees, due to their foraging activities, inadvertently carry microplastics and associated contaminants on their bodies. This study aims to investigate the presence of microplastics in bees (Apis mellifera), utilizing them as indicators of microplastic pollution. Additionally, it seeks to determine whether there is a correlation between proximity to urban centers and the abundance of microplastics in bees sampled from selected apiaries. Employing fluorescence microscopy and FTIR Spectroscopy, the study analyzed a total of 54 samples collected from 9 participating apiaries within the designated area. Statistical analyses revealed that Gualaceo is not immune to microplastic contamination, with fibers and synthetic fragments detected in bee specimens. Furthermore, the study found an inverse relationship between distance from urban centers and the concentration of microplastics within beehives. To advance knowledge in this field, future research could explore the extent to which microplastics are integrated into bee products and their potential impact on living organisms. These findings underscore the urgent need for a shift in attitudes and actions at both individual and institutional levels, emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement in formulating and implementing effective environmental policies and engineering solutions.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e125578

Authors: Agavia Kori Rahayu, Risti Endriani Arhatin, Jordan Gacutan, Firdaus Agung, Jessica Pingkan, Annisya Rosdiana, Irfan Yulianto

Abstract: Ocean Accounts, aligned with the UN System of Environmental Economic Accounting – Environmental Accounting (SEEA EA), bring together economic, social and environmental information in a coherent and standardised manner. Ecosystem extent is a structure to understand environmental assets and uses a basic spatial unit to facilitate the classification and measurement of ecosystems by type. This study tested the impact of grid size and method of designation per grid cell for Marine Basic Spatial Units (MBSU), using Saleh Bay, Indonesia as a case study. The extent of mangrove, seagrass and coral reefs were previously delineated in 2021 for ocean accounting activities. This study tested grids with two different cell sizes (10 x 10 m2 and 25 x 25 m2) and two different methods of designation, namely: (i) dominance (extent-based) and (ii) hierarchy (criteria-based) methods. The results indicated that a larger grid size is related to higher error in estimating both total area per ecosystem and spatial configuration within the study area. The dominance method produced more accurate results than the hierarchy method, although, when considering computational trade-offs, a larger grid size and the hierarchy method observed a much lower computational cost. These results demonstrate the need to carefully consider grid size and method when designating basic spatial units for accounting activities, as they impact linked accounting tables and, in turn, have implications when providing information for management and policy.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e118668

Authors: Ruth Ojeda-Zaga, Vinicio Moya-Almeida, Natalia Alvarado-Arias, Diana Zuleta-Mediavilla

Abstract: In the current context, urban centres in Latin America are facing fundamental challenges in their endeavour for Sustainable Development. The focus of this study is the meticulous assessment of the perception of urban sustainability within the Lurín District of Peru. It introduces a system based on urban sustainability indicators, derived from social surveys and implements this system through linear regression models to discern their interrelations. The objective of the research is to quantify and evaluate essential elements linked to the management of natural resources, air and water quality, the advancement of sustainable mobility, education and the well-being of urban residents. By delineating these mathematical and statistical correlations amongst variables pertinent to urban sustainability, this study provides a robust framework for quantitative decision-making in the urban sphere. A methodology for the development of univariable and multivariable models has been demonstrated. Amongst the most important findings, it has been discovered that the variable Environmental Education System (SEA) is perceived as the least important and even negligible within the multivariable models. However, we believe this effect occurs because the impacts of education are perceived in the long term. This article contributes significantly to the academic discourse by providing a more nuanced understanding of the social perception of urban sustainability and its influence on policy formulation and decision-making processes in Latin America.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e127214

Authors: José Luis Cartes Yegros, Mariela Santacruz, Diego Gómez, Marcela Ferreira Riveros, Hugo del Castillo, Lorena Sforza, Dolly Rivas, Pier Cacciali

Abstract: Paved roads are a solution for communication between human societies, but at the same time, their expansion is detrimental to wildlife. In this work, vertebrate mortality events due to traffic collisions on National Route N° 5, in a 50 km stretch from the town of Pozo Colorado to the east, are evaluated. Vehicle journeys were carried out at a constant speed of 40 km/h every two months, from November 2020 to May 2022. All findings of roadkill were recorded by photograph. To analyse spatial patterns, the Kernel density was estimated, assessing the randomness of Ripley's K collisions and standardised roadkill rates were assessed for each species. A total of 272 individuals were recorded, corresponding to 87 amphibians, 38 birds and 35 mammals. In terms of the number of species, the composition was as follows: reptiles with 20 species, birds with 13 species, mammals with 11 and amphibians with at least 12 species. The species with the highest number of dead individuals was the common toad (Rhinella diptycha), followed by snakes. According to the standardised roadkill rates, the most affected animals are Cerdocyon thous, Rhinella diptycha, Caiman yacare and Dryophylax hypoconia with more than 200 individuals per kilometre per year. A bat, Lasiurus ega, was identified for the first time for Paraguay. Climatic conditions seems to have no strong effect on the occurrence pattern of the different taxa, with the exception of birds that decrease with stronger winds. The greatest coincidences occurred in three sections: km 5–5.5, km 33.5–34.5 and km 40–43. There was a correlation with crossroads areas, watercourses and forest islands. In view of the road development policy in the region, it is necessary to carry out studies of its impacts in the longer term.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e124989

Authors: Thi Dieu Linh Nguyen, Tuan Tran, Kinh Bac Dang, Thi Tai Thu Do, Ha Dong, Nga Pham Thi Phuong, Thuy Hoang Thi, Tuan Linh Giang

Abstract: Estuaries feature diverse ecosystems with great biological production and favourable resources and landscapes for ecotourism. Increasing natural disasters have threatened the lives and safety of over 70% of the region's population in recent years. Rapid urbanisation and tourism have changed land use. This changes ecosystem structure and function, impacting service provision. This study developed a Bayesian Belief Network (BBN) model to assess the imbalance between socio-economic development and resource conservation using an ecosystem services (ES) approach. The BBN model helps synthesise and exchange information, provide decision-making data, evaluate trade-off possibilities and anticipate future situations when assessing ES. The BBN network model probabilistically evaluates ecosystem services using expertise, statistical modelling, geographic information systems and interviews. We assessed the comprehensive value of 17 forms of ES for four ecosystem groups over a period of 30 years. As a result, the cultural ecosystem services of some estuarial regions in Vietnam have the highest value and are showing an increasing trend, while the regulating ecosystem services are continuously fluctuating and decreasing. Provisioning ecosystem services are stable with small changes. This study also examined ES values in six landscape categories and created two ES change scenarios. The findings can help managers choose land-use and resource exploitation policies, understand the value of ecosystem services at the regional level and develop estuary sustainability strategies for long-term ecosystem service balance.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e122079

Authors: Brian Eddy

Abstract: Many ecosystem-based management (EBM) and related applications require integrating geospatial information about socio-economic conditions of human populated areas within a study area. However, integrating socio-economic data in such a way that it can be related to ecological data is challenging due to issues associated with spatial representation between socio-economic and ecological data frameworks. In Canada, this problem is particularly acute given its large geographic size, diversity of environments and highly irregular population distribution. Although several indices have been developed for Canada related to well-being and vulnerability, their suitability for EBM-related applications is limited. This article presents a GIS-based methodology for mapping regional and community vitality index (RVI/CVI) for Canada using standard Census data integrated with the CanEcumene 3.0 Geospatial Database (GDB). The method uses percentile ranks of five sub-indicators of vitality covering population growth, age structure, education, employment and economic wealth. Results reveal a number of notable patterns and trends in socio-economic conditions across the country and across different types of communities and regions. Most notable are decreasing CVI values from economic core regions to rural and remote communities; decreasing scores from high population centres to lower populated areas and lower scores for Indigenous communities when compared with non-Indigenous communities. A series of maps show variation in RVI/CVI values for specific locations with changes over time.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e125302

Authors: Oyolsi Nájera González, Areli Nájera González, Susana Marceleño Flores, Fernando Flores Vilchez

Abstract: To understand climate change in the local context, it is necessary to analyse three factors in the territories; 1) how temperature and precipitation have varied over time, 2) if there is an association with the natural variation of the planet, for example with the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, and 3) if the variations could be related to human actions that directly alter the climate, such as gas emissions into the atmosphere and deforestation. Understanding how these three factors interact, what impacts they have caused on the territory and how they will behave in future scenarios, allows us to think about development planning strategies that seek to adapt human communities to future climate conditions. This study addresses climate change in the City of Tepic, analysing the interannual variation of temperature and precipitation, its association with the ENSO phenomenon and the possible relationship with the urban heat island, contrasting two time periods; 1980-1999 and 2000-2018. The results showed a generalised increase of +1 ºC between periods, decrease of precipitation up to -6% the summer months and increase up to +20% the autumn months. The influence of ENSO on temperature variation increased from 10% to 20% in the most recent period, and its influence on precipitation variation decreased from 17% to 8%, respectively. On the other hand, the heat island increased its extension by more than 60% and its intensity by about 8 degrees between the periods analysed. The differences between periods are discussed descriptively in relation to the doubling of the area of urban use, population, atmospheric emissions and the loss of 30% of the forests in the areas adjacent to the city.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e120449

Authors: David N. Barton, Bart Immerzeel, Luke Brander, Adrienne Grêt-Regamey, Jarumi Kato Huerta, Conor Kretsch, Solen Le Clech, Paula Rendón, Joana Seguin, Martha Arámbula Coyote, Javier Babí Almenar, Mario Balzan, Benjamin Burkhard, Claudia Carvalho-Santos, Davide Geneletti, Victoria Guisado Goñi, Elias Giannakis, Inge Liekens, Piotr Lupa, Gillian Ryan, Małgorzata Stępniewska, Eszter Tanács, Vince van ‘t Hoff, Franziska Walther, Christos Zoumides, Iwona Zwierzchowska, Ioanna Grammatikopoulou, Miguel Villosalda

Abstract: Aiming at understanding the role of plural values in decision-making, the IPBES Values Assessment defined nature valuation broadly as including biophysical, economic and socio-cultural assessments, including ecosystem service assessment. IPBES reviews of scientific literature revealed a lack of documentation of uptake by stakeholders across method types. The EU project SELINA aims to contribute to increasing uptake of ES assessments at different governance levels. This paper reviews guidance in national and local applications by compiling study design recommendations for ES assessments from 111 guidance documents on ES assessments covering 12 European languages. Guidance documents are evaluated for seven diagnostic topics suggested to increase relevance and robustness of ES assessments: ecosystem condition variables; capacity-potential; supply-demand; spatial scaling and resolution capability; social and health benefit compatibility; economic valuation compatibility; and uncertainty assessment. The paper develops the guidance recommendations across these topics into a set of checklists for practitioners and contractors of ES assessments. We find synergies between these study design features and gaps in guidance in relation to the policy cycle. Checklists are aimed at projects self-assessing and improving their design and implementation to increase robustness of their ES assessment. From a knowledge supply perspective, this is expected to increase the likelihood of uptake of results by stakeholders. We end the paper with some cautions on limitations to uptake from different perspectives and the demand for and political uses of ES assessment knowledge.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e118444

Authors: Roxana Aragón, Germán Baldi

Abstract: Dry subtropical (DST) regions that share similar climatic and topographic conditions exhibit today significant disparities in population density, agricultural intensity, wealth and cultural values. In addition, they are also facing increasing pressures on their natural resources. These attributes collectively shape individuals' varying dependence on natural resources and may influence their perception of ecosystem services (ES). In this study, we conducted a systematic literature review, focusing on the DST regions, to address two main questions: 1) What is the current state, temporal trends and regional variability in scientific research on ES and 2) What are the potential drivers of the variability in ES research? Amongst the 471 publications found in our review, 53% focused on provisioning services, followed nearly equally by cultural (33%) and regulating (30%) services. Only 13% addressed more than one ES category and approximately 33% mentioned economic valuation. Our study reveals that research on ES in the dry subtropics experienced a significant increase from 2005 onwards. Approximately 45% of the publications included the term 'ecosystem service' and its frequency has risen substantially over time. Most publications primarily focus on African dry subtropics (over 60%), followed by South and North American ones. Publications from southern Asia and NE Australia were more scarce. Importantly, we found no clear relationship between the number of publications, publication density or representativeness and the variables used as indicators of human pressure (e.g. population density). Consequently, research efforts in the DST regions appear to be influenced by a diverse range of financial and institutional constraints, international research agendas, as well as the personal interests of researchers, contributing to the idiosyncratic nature of this field.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e121553

Authors: Zeynep Türkay, Azime Tezer

Abstract: The biodiversity of ecosystems and their services (ecosystem services - ESs) are declining worldwide due to decisions regarding land-use/land-cover (LULC). As a result, global risks related to climate change are exacerbating as these areas are needed to adapt to climate change and mitigate these risks. The integration of ESs into spatial decision-making is seen as an opportunity to ensure their sustainability. Despite the scientific and practical studies on this issue, it is stated that more studies are needed to clarify how ESs will be used in spatial decision-making. The proposed approach as Integrated ESs (IESs), which builds on the LULC assessment, has the potential to develop ESs-based spatial decision-making by enabling comprehensive approaches to be made. This paper aims to evaluate the results of IESs assessment incorporated with scenario analysis in the context of the integration of ESs into spatial decision-making, to discuss the contributions that this integration can make to the sustainability of ESs in light of these results and to provide straightforward suggestions on how ESs can be linked to the spatial planning tools in Istanbul. The findings of the research prove that ESs in many contexts are relevant to various stages of spatial planning and a spatial decision-making approach that incorporates ES knowledge can contribute to ensuring the sustainability of ESs and achieving sustainable development.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e118263

Authors: Anita Poturalska, Janne Alahuhta, Katja Kangas, Terhi Ala-Hulkko

Abstract: Wood is one of the key forest Ecosystem Services (ES) of growing ecological, social and economic importance; therefore, we need more precise information about its long-term usage. To achieve this, it is necessary to examine the spatio-temporal aspects of wood ES potential, supply and demand. In this study, we analyse spatio-temporal patterns of wood ES supply and demand at continental, national and regional scales to identify areas of increasing and decreasing supply and demand levels in Europe. In addition, we present background information about the potential of European forests to provide wood ES and its relationship to supply and demand. Our results showed that the overall European wood supply and demand as well as the wood ES potential were characterised by increasing trends. Furthermore, this increase was also regional, particularly in central and northern Europe. This study demonstrates not only the significance of spatio-temporal data in ES mapping, but also the importance of considering a broader range of components of the ES cascade model when assessing change. Our research has shown that potential, supply and demand can all increase in the same area, but also that low supply and demand do not guarantee wood potential growth. In addition, we found that a broad scale assessment helps to identify more general patterns and trends, but analysing data at a more accurate scale provides more comprehensive insights for identifying areas that may require targeted action for sustainable forest management.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e118634

Authors: Kevin Li, Jonathan Fisher, Alison Power, Aaron Iverson

Abstract: We created a spatially and temporally-explicit model of floral area in Central New York State, USA, using public data from federal and state governmental agencies and non-governmental organisations. This model incorporates remote sensing-derived natural habitat, crop and land-use data products with roads GIS data to predict land cover indicative of floral resources for pollinators. The resulting dataset provides the necessary land-cover data to quantify floral resources available within a user-specified area (e.g. 2 km radius around the location of a bee hive). When paired with phenological data of species within the communities associated with our land-cover classes, users can predict pollinator floral resources over any specified period in a year. This dataset would be of use to both researchers and practitioners, allowing them to estimate floral resource availability around crops or hive placements. It could also identify habitat restoration to most effectively boost native pollinator populations. We present the methodology for the creation of the spatial dataset and usage information.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e117655

Authors: Anja Holzhausen

Abstract: This expanded review aims to provide information on previous basic research by charophyte experts in the areas of reproduction, dormancy, germination of oospores and cultivation. Therefore, published information, the author’s PhD thesis and further results have been combined to summarise the current state of knowledge for Characeae of permanent and temporary waterbodies. The understanding of evolutionary, systematic and molecular pathways require multidimensional approaches using combined results of morphology, anatomy, physiology, genetics, geobotanics and ecology. The application of zonobioms from geobotanies for performed germination studies resulted in a linkage between environmental conditions and dormancy breakage treatment. Besides this, the combination of environmental logger data and species-specific cultivation knowledge resulted in an optimised in-vitro system that allow the successful gametangia initiation and maturation under artificial laboratory conditions in monoecious diplostichous Chara species.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e114955

Authors: Bruno Lessi, Davide Geneletti, Chiara Cortinovis, Manoel Dias, Matheus Reis

Abstract: In natural and altered environments, the Ecosystem Services (ES) provided by the presence of vegetation, especially regulating ES such as climate regulation and air pollutant removal, are essential to improve human health and well-being. In this study, we focused on a tropical-subtropical river basin which covers urban, peri-urban and rural landscape types of a Brazilian municipality located in the ecotone between the Atlantic Forest and the Cerrado (Brazilian savannah). The research aimed to assess the current state of ES and bird richness (as a biodiversity indicator) and their relationships across an urban-rural-natural gradient. We assessed the cooling effect (as microclimate regulation indicator), air pollutant removal (PM10), nature-based recreation opportunities and bird richness and analysed the variations associated with a shift in the prevailing land- cover types along a gradient of urbaniszation. The results indicated a higher bird richness in peri-urban and rural landscapes, as well as greater pollutant removal and cooling effect provided by vegetation. However, recreation opportunities provided mainly by human infrastructure were higher inside the urban zone and in some peri-urban areas. The landscape type significantly influenced the availability and intensity of these four variables (p < 0.001). Bird richness, air pollutant removal, and cooling effect were positively correlated (r > 0.539; p ≤ 0.048);, however, a trade-off between them and recreation opportunities (r = -0.59, R2 = 0.348, p < 0.001) was found. We simulated possible scenarios of reforestation actions in urban areas to predict the ES values when vegetation cover area is increased. According to the results, the urban planning and efforts to improve nNature-based solutions in the studied river basin should consider the observed trade-off to promote sustainable nature-based recreation opportunities in places with higher values of ES (cooling effect, air pollutant removal, and bird richness) and/or to increase the ES values in urban landscape through environmental policies, such as reforestation.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.9.e109657

Authors: Bariot Hafif, Kartika Kartika, Enny Randriani, Joko Pitono, Gusmaini Gusmaini, Ridwan Ridwan, Neneng Nurida

Abstract: Methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) are the two most important greenhouse gases (GHG) from flooded paddy fields in Indonesia. This review aims to characterise CH4 and N2O emissions from flooded paddy fields by published data analysis and to examine the potential of biochar from rice straw (RSB) and rice husk (RHB) to mitigate the emissions in Indonesia. A comparison of various box-plot datasets of CH4 emissions showed that the different types of flooded paddy field soil cause varying amounts of CH4 emissions from various regions in Indonesia. Sequentially, CH4 emissions of flooded paddy fields from highest to lowest are Alluvial of Kalimantan and Sulawesi, Andisols of Java, Ultisols of Sumatra, Alfisols of Java and Bali and Inceptisols of Java and Bali, with a mean of 1062, 505, 446, 135 and 64 kg ha-1 season-1, respectively. The organic amendments application combined with chemical fertilisers is the principal driver of anthropogenic CH4 emissions from paddy fields. However, N chemical fertiliser application contributes only about 0.37% of the N2O flux, 0.69 kg ha-1 season-1. The produced biochar number was insufficient effectively to reduce CH4 and N2O emissions, at least 20 tonnes ha-1 year-1, in addition to the pyrolysis process to produce biochar, releasing CH4 emissions. Yet, with its recalcitrant properties and continuous application, RSB and RHB potentially reduce CH4 and N2O emissions from paddy fields.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e111973

Authors: Alice Stocco, Chiara Tabacchi, Giuseppe Barbiero, Fabio Pranovi

Abstract: Connectedness to Nature and the ability to perceive the restorative value of places characterised by the presence of natural elements are personal characteristics that, when appropriately measured, make it possible to predict an individual’s attitude towards pro-environmental behaviour. While these characteristics have an innate basis, they are also shaped by personal experiences and various cognitive, affective and sociocultural factors. In this exploratory study in North-eastern Italy, we delve into an interdisciplinary field that explores the relationship between the environment of the residential area and its impact on children's attitudes toward Nature. To do so, we conducted a comprehensive questionnaire amongst 533 primary schoolchildren, aged 6-11 years, to gauge their connectedness to Nature, their perceptions of restorativeness in surrounding natural settings, and their schoolyard environment. Drawing from optical satellite imageries, we calculated a combined multispectral index to assess the naturalness degree of participants' residential areas, focusing on their 68 residential areas, located in three administrative Italian Regions (Trentino Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia and Veneto), which were classified into four different classes with respect to their level of presence of natural areas ("coastal," "low," "average," "high"). By performing non-parametric tests for multiple comparisons amongst groups, we detected a significantly higher level of connectedness to Nature amongst children living in areas with high naturalness, compared to those living in areas with average or low naturalness. Perceived restorativeness scores exhibit a similar trend to that of connectedness to Nature, reinforcing the importance of natural spaces in fostering positive attitudes towards the environment. This result confirms that accessibility and the viewability of natural spaces, even semi-natural ones, seemed to play a crucial role in children's preference for these environments. However, schoolyards were consistently perceived as less regenerative than natural places, regardless of the naturalness of the neighbourhood. These findings raise intriguing questions about the potential consequences of inadequate exposure to Nature on children's affiliation to the natural world and possible subsequent effects on pro-environmental behaviour in adulthood. By shedding light on the complex interplay between personal characteristics, environment and attitudes towards Nature, our study underscores the significance of fostering a deeper connection with natural spaces to nurture a sustainable and environmentally conscious society.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e108683

Authors: Arnold Erdélyi, Judit Hartdégen, Ákos Malatinszky, Csaba Vadász

Abstract: Reconstructing the history (spatio-temporal patterns) of biological invasions at a small spatial scale is challenging, notably because the required data are often not available in sufficient quantity and quality. In this study, we present a mixed approach using six different data sources to explore the spreading history of four non-native invasive tree species, Ailanthus altissima, Celtis occidentalis, Prunus serotina and Acer negundo in a high conservation value foreststeppe habitat with an area of 1000 ha (Peszér Forest, Central Hungary). We carried out a literature search, compiled all the archived and currently valid data of the National Forestry Database (NFD) in a GIS database, conducted a full-coverage field survey, mapped all the large/old tree specimens and carried out annual ring counts, performed a hotspot analysis on the abundance data provided by the field survey and gathered local knowledge. Each of these approaches proved indispensable and their complementary use made it possible to reconstruct the invasion history of all four tree species. According to the available source literature, P. serotina was first planted in the area in 1937 and the first known occurrence of A. altissima could also be traced back to the 1930s. The examination of large specimens of C. occidentalis and querying the NFD for data related to A. negundo provided evidence that these species have been present in the area since at least the 1940s. However, based on the NFD and local knowledge, it is certain that the rapid expansion of the four tree species occurred simultaneously and only around the turn of the millennium, with a lag of at least 60-70 years. The exploration of local knowledge revealed three possible explanations, which interestingly also coincided in time. With the change in the political regime, the intensity of forest use started to decrease in the 1990s, the population of game was drastically reduced at the end of the decade and droughts became more frequent from 2000 onwards. The field survey clearly showed that these tree species were 2-3 times more prevalent and abundant than the relevant NFD data indicated. Finally, the primary hotspots of A. altissima and A. negundo overlapped with the locations of their first known occurrences, while in the case of C. occidentalis and P. serotina, they did not. However, local knowledge revealed that the former two had been ignored since at least the 1950s, while the latter two were occasionally planted until the 1990s. It is likely that the primary hotspots of C. occidentalis and P. serotina indicate the locations of these undocumented plantations.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e108540

Authors: Sabine Lange, Alice Mockford, Benjamin Burkhard, Felix Müller, Tim Diekötter

Abstract: Semi-natural linear landscape elements, such as hedgerows, are vital structures within agricultural landscapes that have an impact on ecosystem processes and support biodiversity. However, they are typically omitted from green infrastructure planning, which could lead to significant undervaluing of landscapes and their multifunctionality in terms of ecosystem service supply. Using the InVEST (Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs) model suite, we tested the effects of additionally including semi-natural linear landscape elements on the model outcomes for crop pollination, nutrient regulation, erosion regulation and water flow regulation ecosystem services supply. The results showed that linear semi-natural landscape elements contribute positively to the landscape’s multifunctionality. Small changes have been identified for water flow regulation, whereas, considering both spatial extent and magnitude of the changes, the greatest changes have been found with respect to the supply of pollination and nutrient regulation. Direct proximity of the linear elements had the greatest effect on ecosystem service supply, in particular with regard to pollination. Based on our results, a more pronounced consideration of semi-natural linear landscape elements as an important element of green infrastructure is advisable.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e94561

Authors: Haniyeh Shahali, Amin Habibi

Abstract: The cultural ecosystem service (CES) has been rarely expressed in the area of urban landscape and design. This study tries to find a framework to apply the CES usage in the literature of landscape design. The results show that most indicators have expanded in the areas of “landscape elements” followed by the “ecological infrastructures.” In addition, the aesthetic indicators in the biological aspect have been mainly focused on plants; moreover, birds have been more considered than the other species. Other findings indicate that, in addition to the existing proceedings, the link with the sustainable development objectives, the effects of the drivers for change and the ecosystem’s improper services' indicators are factors that should be considered in the area of landscape design in a framework of ecosystem cultural services.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e108030

Authors: Maria Alarcon Blazquez, Rob van der Veeren, Jordan Gacutan, Philip James

Abstract: Ecosystem Accounting provides a framework to measure and value relationships amongst ecosystems, society and the economy. The accounts measure ecosystem extent, condition and services, providing the means to identify and internalise ecological degradation, as well as understanding the risks and dependencies of economic activities on the environment and tracking progress towards sustainable development. The OSPAR Convention, which concerns the protection of the Marine Environment for the North-East Atlantic, has committed to accounting for natural capital and ecosystem services, where the UN System of Environmental Economic Accounting – Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA EA) provides an international accounting standard for guidance in compiling accounts. Here, we describe the first attempt in compiling accounts aligned with SEEA EA at a Regional Sea scale. We: (i) identified existing open access data, (ii) produced accounts for selected ecosystems and valued their services and asset value and (iii) identified challenges and lessons learned. For ecosystem services, we measured fish provisioning, carbon sequestration and outdoor recreation from coastal and marine environments across OSPAR contracting parties. The exercise identified lack of fitting data at regional level, spatially-explicit linkages and harmonisation need to be overcome to further expand accounts. This work represents an initial step to progress on ecosystem accounting and demonstrates that even with limited data and incomplete time-series, accounts can start being compiled to identify data gaps and prioritising next steps.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e103760

Authors: Dung Ngo, Hoi Nguyen, Khanh Nguyen, Cuong Dang, Hieu Nguyen, Ngoc Dang, Thanh Pham

Abstract: Mangroves play an important role in coastal estuarine areas with different ecological functions, such as reducing the impact of waves and currents, accumulating biomass and sequestering carbon. However, estimation of terrestrial biomass in mangrove areas, especially in Vietnam, has not been fully studied. The application of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), mounted with multispectral cameras combined with field verification is an effective method for estimating terrestrial biomass for mangroves, as it reduces field survey time and allows for greater spatial range research. In this study, ground biomass was estimated for the mangrove area in the Dong Rui commune, based on multispectral image data obtained from UAV and survey results in 16 standard cells measuring actual biomass according to four regression models: Log-Log, Log-Lin, Lin-Log and Lin-Lin. The results of comparing the data from these four models show that the log-log model has the highest accuracy with a high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.831). Based on the results of the analysis and selection of ground-based biomass estimation models, a biomass map was established for the UAV flying area in the Dong Rui mangrove forest with biomass values ranging from 20 Mg/ha to 150 Mg/ha. In summary, we present a biomass estimation method through four basic linear regression models for mangrove areas, based on multispectral image data obtained from ultrahigh-resolution UAV. The resulting research results can serve as a basis for managers to calculate and synchronise the payment of carbon services, thus contributing to effectively promoting the livelihoods of local people.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e101122

Authors: Natalia Alvarado-Arias, Vinicio Moya-Almeida, Francisco Cabrera-Torres, Andrea Medina-Enríquez

Abstract: Urban rivers play a crucial role in providing ecosystem services (ES) that contribute to the social well-being and quality of life of urban inhabitants. However, rapid urbanisation has led to the progressive degradation of these rivers, affecting their capacity to deliver ES and resulting in significant socio-ecological impacts. This study performs a participatory mapping of the non-monetary social values (positives and negatives), in the urban Zamora and Malacatos Rivers and their ESs, in Loja, Ecuador, to understand community perceptions and preferences in a context of degraded landscapes as a complementary category of analysis to traditional approaches. Methodologically, the collection, analysis and mapping were carried out using public participation GIS (PPGIS) based on surveys. This method facilitated the integration of social data with biophysical variables. The most relevant of the ten social values studied were positives: Learning, Aesthetic, Therapeutic and negatives: Displeasure, Deficient and Inaccessible Infrastructure and Threat of Flooding. We revealed different spatial patterns for each ES social value, where positive value locations exhibited a dispersed pattern, with clusters in peripheral areas, while negative value locations exhibited a clustered pattern in the city centre. The environmental variable with the most significant contribution was the Horizontal Distance to Green Areas. These findings enhance our understanding of the social values and preferences associated with ES in urban river contexts. Furthermore, they provide valuable insights for identifying areas of opportunity and conflict, informing community planning and effective management of the urban landscape.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e98100

Authors: Yann Kervinio, Clément Surun, Adrien Comte, Harold Levrel

Abstract: Harnessing reliable and relevant information on ecosystems requires focusing and prioritising information acquisition on dimensions of interest. As a boundary object between ecosystem monitoring, research and public decision-making, ecosystem accounting can serve this purpose. We develop an argument in favour of a set of accounts, consistent with the statistical standard part of the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA-EA), that explicitly links monetary accounts to ecosystem extent and condition accounts. The ecosystem condition account is structured in three categories reflecting the main values motivating integrated ecosystem management targets and notions of «good ecological status». These categories are: (i) the maintenance of their heritage dimensions, (ii) their capacity to sustainably provide ecosystem services and (iii) the maintenance of their overall functionality. We discuss how such ecosystem accounts and associated monitoring can form the basis both for assessing an ecological debt by using a cost-based approach and for designing an action-orientated information system suitable to support the transition towards sustainable societies.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e98852

Authors: Camilo Gomez Cardona, Janwar Moreno, Andrea Contreras, David Sanchez-Nuñez, Nicolas Arciniegas Moreno, Daniel Guerrero, Efrain Viloria Maestre, Johann Lopez Navarro

Abstract: The Cienaga Grande de Santa Marta Ramsar Site (CGSM) is the most important Caribbean estuarine wetland in Colombia. The site represents a strategically important ecosystem supporting the national and local economy. However, their ability to provide ecosystem services has been seriously affected mainly due to changes in land use, disturbances of water flows, man-made climate change and interannual climatic variability. These circumstances led to its inclusion in the Montreux Record, a register of wetland sites on the ‘List of Wetlands of International Importance’ where variations in ecological character have happened, are happening or are likely to happen as an outcome of technological developments, pollution or other human interference. This paper presents the first account of marine and coastal ecosystems developed in Colombia at the Cienaga Grande de Santa Marta. Following the principles for ecosystem accounting of the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting—Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA EA), we developed accounting tables of extent and condition of ecosystems, biophysical and monetary flows of climate regulation and fishing supply and the monetary account of ecosystem assets. Results of the ecosystem account allow visualising the importance of ecosystem services of the wetland, its capacity to provide economic benefits, social welfare and livelihoods at local and national level. Finally, we identify main gaps of information, highlight the applicability of ecosystem accounting to policy- and decision-making on economic and environmental issues and evaluate the challenges to implement it.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e101381

Authors: Elena Todorova, Miglena Zhiyanski

Abstract: The present study deals with examining the condition of urban soils and their potential to deliver soil-related regulating ecosystem services concerning the level of anthropogenic pressure in different functional zones of Sofia, Bulgaria. Analyses of data for selected characteristics of superficial 0-10 cm soil layer of urban soils were performed. Soils were sampled from 30 experimental plots within a geo-referred network covering urban and peri-urban territories. The concentrations of heavy metals Cu, Zn, Pb and Fe were analysed to determine the level of pollution, while soil pH, cation-exchange capacity (CEC), total carbon and total nitrogen content were used as indicators for assessing the regulating ecosystem service “soil quality”. The results demonstrate the differences in the potential of four functional zones – green zones, industrial zones, residential zones and zones for urban agriculture, to regulate and maintain “soil quality”. The purpose of the assessment is to outline the zones with the potential for implicating mitigation measures in urban and peri-urban zones, based on maps of soil quality, which contributes to focusing more attention on the protection and restoration of urban soils, to reduce soil pollution and to increase the reuse of urban soils.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e87713

Authors: Leo De Nocker, Inge Liekens, Carolien Beckx, Steven Broekx

Abstract: In recent years, a vast amount of scientific literature has highlighted the benefits of nearby green space for physical and mental health, but the large variation in scope, methods and indicators used in these studies hampers the assessment of these benefits in the context of natural capital accounting. To our knowledge, this paper is one of the first studies to quantify and value these benefits in the context of natural capital accounting. A method was developed and applied to the Flemish Region in Belgium for 2013 and 2016.The physical supply and use accounts for health are based on a set of selected dose-effect relationships that quantify the impact of the availability of greenspace on seven specific indicators for physical and mental health, including mortality, cardio-vascular diseases, diabetes and depression. The indicator for green-blue areas is the percentage of green-blue areas in total land use, calculated for 0.5, 1 and 3 km radius from the residence, based on detailed land-use maps (10 m x 10 m) for Flanders, Belgium. The base-line data for mortality and illness are average data for the Flemish Region. These health impacts are weighted using Daly's (disability-adjusted life years) and aggregated. The total health benefits due to the availability of green-blue areas for the total Flemish population was estimated at almost 85,000 DALYs. This is 27% of the estimated total burden of disease in Flanders in 2016 for the seven selected diseases.The monetary accounts are based on a detailed assessment for mortality and morbidity of three different cost components, i.e. avoided medical costs (e.g. hospitalisation) and avoided absenteeism and welfare loss due to suffering and reduced life expectancy. Productivity gains from avoided absenteeism is valued, based on statistics on absenteeism for specific diseases for and labour market data from Belgium and account for 52% of the total monetary value of green spaces. Cost of illness is valued, based on market data and illness specific studies for Belgium or Europe and account for 36% of total values. Welfare gains from increased life expectancy are valued on the basis of European studies for the VOLY (value of a life year lost), based on the simulated exchange value for the willingness-to-pay for increased life expectancy. This accounts for 12% of the total monetary value of green space. The total monetary benefits amount to 464 Euro per inhabitant per year or 3 billion Euro per year for Flanders. This corresponds to 1.3% of the GDP, which reflects the importance of these benefits.The methodology is incomplete as not all health indicators are covered, mainly due to a lack of dose-effect relationships. The research priority for potential users of the accounts is a better indicator for contact with green space that does differentiate between ecosystems, their quality, accessibility or their use. This requires more systematic health impact studies that take these elements into account, as well as more systematic data on the daily use of green space by citizens. In the meantime, an additional set of condition accounts on these elements can be used, especially to follow changes in quality and use of green-blue areas over time.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e85021

Authors: David N. Barton

Abstract: In this paper, we demonstrate value generalisation from a sample of ecosystem assets – municipally managed trees - to all tree assets within an urban ecosystem accounting area. A Bayesian network model is used to machine-learn non-parametric correlation patterns between biophysical site condition variables and output variables of an ecosystem service model – here iTree Eco for modelling the regulating services of urban forests. The paper also demonstrates the use of spatial Bayesian network modelling to quantify the reliability of value generalisation for accounting purposes. Value generalisation entails inferring ecosystem service values for all locations in an ecosystem accounting area, where the accounting practitioner has less information about the asset and its context, than in an available sample of managed sites within the accounting area. The modelling is carried out as a “proof-of-principle” of potential value generalisation and uncertainty analysis methods for ecosystem accounting. It does not cover all regulating ecosystem services of urban forests, nor cultural services. While noting that wide confidence intervals for generalised values pose challenges for using monetary accounts for the accounting purpose of change detection, we find that tree-specific asset valuation is possible in an urban accounting setting. Our findings serve the purpose of raising awareness about asset values of urban green infrastructure, to bring them more on a par with grey infrastructure in urban planning. We also argue that the reliability of the asset value of individual trees is also good enough to be used for non-accounting purposes, such as municipal tree damage assessments.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e95685

Authors: Andrew Neill, Cathal O'Donoghue, Jane Stout

Abstract: Experiences gained through in person (in-situ) interactions with ecosystems provide cultural ecosystem services. These services are difficult to assess because they are non-material, vary spatially and have strong perceptual characteristics. Data obtained from social media can provide spatially-explicit information regarding some in-situ cultural ecosystem services by serving as a proxy for visitation. These data can identify environmental characteristics (natural, human and built capital) correlated with visitation and, therefore, the types of places used for in-situ environmental interactions. A range of spatial models can be applied in this way that vary in complexity and can provide information for ecosystem service assessments. We deployed four models (global regression, local regression, maximum entropy and the InVEST recreation model) to the same case-study area, County Galway, Ireland, to compare spatial models. A total of 6,752 photo-user-days (PUD) (a visitation metric) were obtained from Flickr. Data describing natural, human and built capital were collected from national databases. Results showed a blend of capital types correlated with PUD suggesting that local context, including biophysical traits and accessibility, are relevant for in-situ cultural ecosystem service flows. Average trends included distance to the coast and elevation as negatively correlated with PUD, while the presence of major roads and recreational sites, population density and habitat diversity were positively correlated. Evidence of local relationships, especially town distance, were detected using geographic weighted regression. Predicted hotspots for visitation included urban areas in the east of the region and rural, coastal areas with major roads in the west. We conclude by presenting a guide for researchers and practitioners developing cultural ecosystem service spatial models using data from social media that considers data coverage, landscape heterogeneity, computational resources, statistical expertise and environmental context.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.8.e97259

Authors: Betul Tulek

Abstract: River landscapes have an important function in the landscape in terms of coastal use and the opportunities they provide and they offer different cultural ecosystem services (CES). CES have a significant impact on human welfare in terms of the recreational, aesthetic and spiritual benefits these generate for people. However, the modelling and analysis of these services is more limited versus other ecosystem services due to their intangibility and subjectivity which creates unique challenges. Recently, social media data have provided an opportunity to generate spatial models of CES, offering significant cost and time advantages. Nevertheless, the usefulness of these novel data sources still requires more investigation versus more traditional survey techniques. This study aims to understand the variety of information provided by the images that users upload publicly on a daily basis to social media in a urban/rural setting. Specifically, CES provided by the open and green spaces around the Lower Rhine (Nederrijn) in Wageningen were studied using images uploaded to the social media platform Flickr. A photographic survey was then conducted to compare the utility and accuracy of these new data versus traditional techniques. In doing so, spatial data, ratings and survey evaluations related to the photographs were digitised, classified and integrated with land cover features. The results show that there is a good consistency between the two sources of data and that a wide range of CES measures can be established using these novel data sources. More work is now needed in developing spatial indicators of CES relevant to local assessments, such as the one carried out in this study.Focusing on the Lower Rhine region as a case study, we used the Flickr digital platform to address the following three key questions:(1) What is the spatial distribution of CES?(2) Do users who post on the Flickr platform fully represent the cultural identity of the community and visitors in the region?(3) Which land-cover types of the Lower Rhine region are most appreciated for CES and what are the aesthetic preferences of visitors and experts that correspond to this?

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.7.e89706

Authors: Beyhan Ekinci, Karsten Grunewald, Sophie Meier, Steffen Schwarz, Burkhard Schweppe-Kraft, Ralf-Uwe Syrbe

Abstract: Ecosystem services can be measured physically, but also valued in monetary terms. In public planning and decision-making in Germany, multi-criteria analysis is usually used to inform decision-makers about different impacts of projects, for example, for housing and the siting of industrial or infrastructure projects. Typically, these evaluations are based on various environmental, social and economic impacts using their own specific methods and then juxtapose the different results, without providing further support for weighing various concerns.Economic evaluations attempt to assess preferences of individuals and society in relation to the outcomes that are relevant for a decision, thereby providing further support to decision-makers. Although so-called welfare values are usually used for this purpose in cost-benefit analysis, it can be shown that, in certain cases, exchange values from environmental economic accounting also fulfil that objective. This is demonstrated for the case of site planning, using maps of economic values of biomass provisioning services and ecosystem services for nature conservation.The ecosystem service values used for this purpose were determined spatially explicitly nationwide for Germany. Services for nature conservation were calculated as average costs to develop one ´biotope value point´. This unit is used in German planning law to determine ecological compensation measures for impacts on nature. Cost data were calculated from nature conservation measures to fulfil the requirements of the EU Habitats Directive. As a proxy for the biomass provisioning service, hypothetical agricultural land-lease rates with different yield potential were estimated throughout Germany. Due to a lack of other spatially specific data, timber services were valued with the average net profit of forestry businesses.A comparison shows that, on average, services for nature conservation have higher values than biomass provisioning services. This is the case even for arable land.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.7.e89705

Authors: Beyhan Ekinci, Karsten Grunewald, Sophie Meier, Steffen Schwarz, Burkhard Schweppe-Kraft, Ralf-Uwe Syrbe

Abstract: Life Satisfaction Analyses in Germany reveal a significant positive correlation between the amount of green space within 1 km of residence and well-being. The comparison of the effects of green space and income on well-being allows the derivation of a monetary demand function for green spaces close to the place of home. This demand function was used together with land-use and population data to estimate the monetary value of green space close to home for every 2 km × 2 km grid cell in Germany.The results can be used in environmental economic accounting as a proxy for the (visual) amenity services of green spaces close to residences and provide urban planners with additional information on the strength and spatial distribution of demand for green spaces in residential areas.The study shows that, especially in densely populated areas where more than 30 per cent of the German population lives, the (simulated) exchange value of green spaces (price per additional hectare derived from the demand function) multiplied by the number of households that would pay this price, is higher than the price per ha that can be achieved on the real estate market.A comparison with the results of a Hedonic Price Analysis that estimates the effect of urban green space on property prices finds that the values of urban green spaces calculated with this method were 38 to 124 times smaller than the values calculated with the Life Satisfaction Analysis and far below building land prices. The reason for the relatively low impact of urban green on property prices can be explained by market imperfections in the housing market.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.7.e86392

Authors: Jane Turpie, Gwyneth Letley, Joshua Weiss, Kevin Schmidt

Abstract: Pilot monetary ecosystem accounts were compiled for KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa, in order to highlight any data, methodological or process issues in their compilation and to contribute towards charting a strategy for ecosystem accounting. The Province is highly diverse, with eight biomes, large proportions under communal, private and state tenure, globally important biodiversity, variable landscape condition and encompassing catchment areas of nine river systems. We accounted for the supply and use of wild biomass, reared animal production, cultivation (including silviculture), nature-based tourism, property value, carbon storage and sequestration, pollination, flow regulation (maintenance of base flows), sediment retention, water quality amelioration and flood attenuation. For each ecosystem service, we devised conceptually valid methods that were suitable for the existing data to produce values consistent with the System of National Accounts. These were then summed to estimate total annual flows from each 100 x 100 m spatial unit and its asset value. Challenges encountered included lack of data on small-scale and subsistence production, mismatches in the classification of landcover and government production statistics, unreliable measures of ecosystem condition, the large scale of hydrological modelling and lack of centralised data organisation relating to hydrological services. There was heavy reliance on past empirical research and on global datasets. The combined value of the annual flow of the ecosystem services valued was R52.5 billion in 2011, equivalent to 12% of the provincial GDP. However, the values of many of the services have decreased over the accounting period, due to a combination of changes in demand and ecosystem condition. Asset value was undermined to some extent by unsustainable use of provisioning services. Some areas will require careful messaging, particularly in regard to the contentious issue of valuing carbon retention and the use of exchange values rather than welfare values that are used in economic analysis.

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DOI: 10.3897/oneeco.7.e84865

Authors: Elena Mengo, Gaetano Grilli, Tiziana Luisetti, Heather Conejo Watt, Cherry Harper Jones, Paulette Posen

Abstract: In recent decades, a concerted effort has been made to define methodologies and frameworks to account for the contribution of the natural environment to national wealth and its role in fulfilling societal and economic needs. The linkages between natural capital and human well-being are even stronger in low-income and vulnerable countries, such as Small Island Developing States (SIDS). This is particularly true for coastal and marine ecosystems and for SIDS, considering that a large portion of their population live along the coast. Therefore, SIDS would greatly benefit from systematically assessing and recording the condition and services provided by marine and coastal habitats in ecosystem accounts. Applications of accounting frameworks to marine and coastal habitats, however, are still under development. Through a case study in the Caribbean Island of Grenada, we explore SIDS readiness to develop marine and coastal natural capital accounts, in particular framed within the guidelines of the United Nations System of Environmental-Economic Accounting Ecosystem Accounting (SEEA-EA). We find that, while data to compile accounts of ecosystems extent exist and may be suitable for accounting, data related to ecosystem condition are very limited. Data gaps significantly constrained the potential approaches to estimate the ecosystem services supply provided by the coastal and marine environment in our natural capital accounts for Grenada. Our case study investigation brings us to suggest initial steps for the development of ecosystem accounts in SIDS, including potential methodologies and approaches and discuss how developing a set of coherent accounts can play a key role in incorporating nature into decision-making.

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