Plant diversity, animal diversity and ecosystem diversity in the wetland were studied with field investigation and statistical analysis, and then biodiversity of Chen Lake wetland was also valued. The results showed t...Plant diversity, animal diversity and ecosystem diversity in the wetland were studied with field investigation and statistical analysis, and then biodiversity of Chen Lake wetland was also valued. The results showed that the reasonable utilization and protection for biodiversity of Chen Lake wetland gave important contribution to improving the regional environment and sustainable development of Wuhan, and even the middle-lower Yangtze area.展开更多
The Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii), indigenous to China, became an endangered species because of considerable reduction both in number and distribution during the 20th century. Presently, it is listed as an...The Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii), indigenous to China, became an endangered species because of considerable reduction both in number and distribution during the 20th century. Presently, it is listed as an Appendix Ⅰ species by CITES and as Category I by the Key Protected Wildlife List of China. Understanding the genetic diversity and population structure of the Tibetan antelope is significant for the development of effective conservation plans that will ensure the recovery and future persistence of this species. Twenty-five microsatellites were selected to obtain loci with sufficient levels of polymorphism that can provide information for the analysis of population structure. Among the 25 loci that were examined, nine of them showed high levels of genetic diversity. The nine variable loci (MCM38, MNS64, IOBT395, MCMAL TGLA68, BM1329, BMSI341, BM3501, and MB066) were used to examine the genetic diversity of the Tibetan antelope (n = 75) in Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve(HXNNR), Qinghai, China. The results obtained by estimating the number of population suggested that all the 75 Tibetan antelope samples were from the same population. The mean number of alleles per locus was 9.4 ± 0.5300 (range, 7-12) and the mean effective number of alleles was 6.519± 0.5271 (range, 4.676-9.169). The observed mean and expected heterozygosity were 0.844 ± 0.0133 (range, 0.791-0.897) and 0.838 ± 0.0132 (range, 0.786-0.891), respectively. Mean Polymorphism Information Content (PIC) was 0.818 ± 0.0158 (range, 0.753-0.881). The value of Fixation index (Fis) ranged from -0.269 to -0.097 with the mean of -0.163 ± 0.0197. Mean Shannon's information index was 1.990 ± 0.0719 among nine loci (range, 1.660-2.315). These results provide baseline data for the evaluation of the level of genetic variation in Tibetan antelope, which will be important for the development of conservation strategies in future.展开更多
In the paper, the effects of linear expansion coefficient and basic index of melting slag on the detachability of self shielded flux cored electrode (SSFCE) are investigated. An equation is obtained on the principles ...In the paper, the effects of linear expansion coefficient and basic index of melting slag on the detachability of self shielded flux cored electrode (SSFCE) are investigated. An equation is obtained on the principles of ceramics and mineralography which predict the detachability of basic SSFCE. In addition, stick slag mechanism of SSFCE is analyzed.展开更多
lbex (Capra ibex), a first grade protected animal, has not been well studied in China. Surveys were conducted to investigate the distribution of the ibex in the Tomur National Nature Reserve during October--November...lbex (Capra ibex), a first grade protected animal, has not been well studied in China. Surveys were conducted to investigate the distribution of the ibex in the Tomur National Nature Reserve during October--November 2004, July 2005, and October-December 2005. The results were as follows: (1) Out of five valleys, the ibex was distributed in the Qiong-Tailan, Keqik-Tailan, and Muzart Valleys: (2) Ibexes were not observed in the Tomur Valley and Kuzbayi Valley in our surveys, but interview investigations indicated that they may be found here as well. Our results indicated that the nature reserve as a whole is in the distribution range of ibex and it plays an important role in protecting ibex and the alpine biodiversity. However, the uneven distribution pattern can be due to human activities. Therefore, the management of the reserve needs to be improved in the future.展开更多
With Maolan Nature Reserve as an example, its forest landscape characteristics and diversity were studied by utilizing GIS. The results showed that the overall forest landscape in Maolan Nature Reserve was quite good,...With Maolan Nature Reserve as an example, its forest landscape characteristics and diversity were studied by utilizing GIS. The results showed that the overall forest landscape in Maolan Nature Reserve was quite good, but with the increasing natural interferences and human activities, shrub forests and non-woodland landscape types have been multiplied; among the 3 functional zones of the Nature Reserve, landscape fragmentation degree is low in core zone and buffer zone, but high in experimental zone.展开更多
The article presents research findings related to recreational use of forests located in protected mountainous areas with forestage of over 80%. The study was designed to identify recreational potential of the Carpath...The article presents research findings related to recreational use of forests located in protected mountainous areas with forestage of over 80%. The study was designed to identify recreational potential of the Carpathian national parks (Bieszczady National Park, Bahia G6ra National Park, Goree National Park and Magura National Park; southern Poland) and to compare these findings with the actual number of visitors. The information received on the recreational potential of parks is important from the point of view of protection of natural resources and the financial situation of the parks. The calculated ratio may be an effective tool of management for park administration, that allows to reconcile statutory social and protective functions of national parks. The study determined the recreational potential of the forests with the use of recreational valorisation method designed for areas with varied terrain, and the evaluated factors included the stands of trees with their habitat and land relief. The permissible number of national park visitors, expressed as man- hour/ha/year ranges from 19.31 in Bieszczady National Park (BG: 19~ 35' E, 49~ 35' N) to 32.06 in in Bieszczady National Park (B: 22~ 40' E, 49~ lo' N). In 3 out of 4 investigated parks, Magura National Park (M: 21025' E, 49~ 30' N), Gorce National Park (G: 20~ lo' E, 49~ 35' N), B) recreation carrying capacity was not exceeded, whether or not the strictly protected area is taken into account. Only in BG was the recreation carrying capacity exceeded by nearly 24%, or by 85% if the strictly protected area isexcluded from tourism-related exploitation. The presented procedure for monitoring access to mountain forests in national parks, from the viewpoint of natural resources conservation, can be applied in other mountainous areas covered with forests and exposed to tourist and recreational traffic, and in forests facing particular risk of recreational damage, e.g. in urban and suburban forests growing in areas with varied orography.展开更多
The Sanjiang Plain is a vast area of alluvial floodplains and low hills in northeast Heilongjiang Province. It is the largest tract of wetlands in China and East Asia outside of Siberia. 28 wetland nature reserves exi...The Sanjiang Plain is a vast area of alluvial floodplains and low hills in northeast Heilongjiang Province. It is the largest tract of wetlands in China and East Asia outside of Siberia. 28 wetland nature reserves exist on the Sanjiang Plain, and three of them have been listed as wetlands of international importance to water bird conservation by the Ramsar Convention Bureau. The wetlands of Sanjiang Plain are noteworthy for its rich biodiversity, but they continue to decline in area and deteriorate in quality currently. The main threats or constrains, immediate cause, root cause and required response are analyzed in this paper, and the four aspects opinion such as improvement of watershed management, enhancement of protection and restoration of habitats and biodiversity, alternative livelihoods of rural residents living in and near natural wetland reserve, and reinforcement of capacity building of natural reserves are brought forward as the effective measures for the Sanjiang Plain wetland protection.展开更多
This paper reports the first photosynthetic study of marestail in Jiuzhaigou. In this work, we used PAM fluorometry to examine photosynthetic rates of submerged and emerged marestail in three lakes. Three lakes were s...This paper reports the first photosynthetic study of marestail in Jiuzhaigou. In this work, we used PAM fluorometry to examine photosynthetic rates of submerged and emerged marestail in three lakes. Three lakes were studied across a gradient of water temperature, with low water temperature conditions in Grass Lake and Arrow Bamboo Lake, and higher water temperature in Five Colored Lake. In the field, electron transport rates (ETRmax) were measured as rapid light curves (RLCs) by in situ yield measurements. Submerged and emerged marestail showed higher photosynthetic activity in Five Colored Lake compared to the other lakes, a response consistent with the adaptation of marestail in Five Colored Lake to high water temperature. The optimal temperature for photosynthesis of submerged marestail in Jiuzhaigou was about 12 ~C. Non- photochemical quenching (NPQ) of submerged and emerged marestail increased with increasing water temperature. Maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm) of submerged marestail in Five Colored Lake showed full recovery at 170o h due to higher NPQ. Further, the chlorophyll a for submerged marestail was the highestin Grass Lake and the lowest in Five Colored Lake. These results indicate that in different lakes the function of these aquatic plants is associated with a diversity of place-dependent environmental conditions, especially water temperature that leads to pronounced differences in the plant's ecophysiological reactions.展开更多
We analyzed the distributional patterns of95 selected species of leptosporangiate ferns inhabiting the Mexican Mountain Component, using grid-cells of one geographical degree as unit areas,applying endemism indices an...We analyzed the distributional patterns of95 selected species of leptosporangiate ferns inhabiting the Mexican Mountain Component, using grid-cells of one geographical degree as unit areas,applying endemism indices and richness and beta diversity analyses.Distributional data were obtained from several herbaria and specialized literature.Five grid-cells appear to be important for fern species richness, as they contain 35 to 49 species.These gridcells are located in the Sierra Madre Oriental(SMO),Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt(TMVB) and the Sierra Madre del Sur(SMS).Mean richness by latitudinal belts of one degree showed that the belts with highest values are related to the TMVB and SMS.A total of 13grid-cells were recognized as important from theperspective of endemism; most of them are located also in the SMO, TMVB and SMS.The richest gridcells coincided with one of the main centres of endemism for ferns obtained in this study, located in the convergence of the southern part of the SMO, the eastern portion of the TMVB and the northern part of the SMS, reflecting the high humidity existing on the mountain slopes facing the Gulf of Mexico.Some important grid-cells recognized from richness and endemism analyses coincide with Mexican Natural Protected Areas.The beta diversity analysis showed a low degree of similarity among grid-cells, implying a high species replacement, as the result of environmental heterogeneity occurring in the Mexican mountain systems.On the other hand, the spatial analysis suggested a pattern of phytogeographical regionalization comprising twomain areas: the Mexican Transition Zone and the Mexican Central Plateau.Ferns play an important role in the Mexican biodiversity and contributing to the beta diversity of Mexico.展开更多
We studied the locomotor behaviour of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and Francois' langurs T.francoisi to test two hypotheses: (1) these monkeys have evolved locomotor ability to support their a...We studied the locomotor behaviour of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and Francois' langurs T.francoisi to test two hypotheses: (1) these monkeys have evolved locomotor ability to support their activities on limestone hills, and (2) Francois' langurs have evolved more diverse locomotor skills than white-headed langurs. Data were collected from 1996 - 1998 and in 2005 in Fusui Nature Reserve, Guangxi, and showed that the two species had similar locomotor types, but Francois' langurs had more locomotor modes (26) than white-headed langurs (12). Quadrupedal walking and leaping were two major types, and white-headed langurs were more arboreal than Francois' langurs. We suggest that, while keeping their ancestral locomotor types, the two species have evolved new types allowing them to live on limestone cliffs. Compared to white-headed langurs, Francois' langurs have more diverse locomotor modes that probably have allowed them to live in more habitat types. As an evolutionary outcome, Francois' langurs have a larger distribution range .展开更多
Xishuangbanna is a multinational region and different ethnic groups have self-owned traditional ways of protecting biodiversity, represented by Dragon Moun-tain and Hil Cemetery, and Temple Forest. As population incre...Xishuangbanna is a multinational region and different ethnic groups have self-owned traditional ways of protecting biodiversity, represented by Dragon Moun-tain and Hil Cemetery, and Temple Forest. As population increases and economy develops, people’s consciousness of traditional culture is fading and both of the number and area of sacred natural sites underwent changes, undermining the role of sacred natural sites playing in biodiversity protection, especial y for species pro-tection and gene exchange.展开更多
Cervus sichuanicus is a species of sika deer (Cervus nippon Group). To date, research has mainly focused on quantity surveying and behavior studies, with genetic information on this species currently deficient. To p...Cervus sichuanicus is a species of sika deer (Cervus nippon Group). To date, research has mainly focused on quantity surveying and behavior studies, with genetic information on this species currently deficient. To provide scientific evidence to assist in the protection of this species, we collected Sichuan sika deer fecal samples from the Sichuan Tiebu Nature Reserve (TNR) and extracted DNA from those samples. Microsatellite loci of bovine were used for PCR amplification. After GeneScan, the genotype data were used to analyze the genetic diversity and population structure of the Sichuan sika deer in TNR. Results showed that the average expected heterozygosity of the Sichuan sika deer population in TNR was 0.562, equivalent to the average expected heterozygosity of endangered animals, such as Procapra przewalsldi. Furthermore, 8 of 9 microsatellite loci significantly deviated from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and two groups existed within the Sichuan sika deer TNR population. This genetic structure may be caused by a group of Manchurian sika deer (Cervus hortulorum) released in TNR.展开更多
Functional properties of Talbina were used in ancient Arab for nutritional purpose. It was a meal made from barley flour and milk. The high antioxidant Talbina was formulated from whole flour of harley and oat, milk, ...Functional properties of Talbina were used in ancient Arab for nutritional purpose. It was a meal made from barley flour and milk. The high antioxidant Talbina was formulated from whole flour of harley and oat, milk, date palm syrup (debis) and date palm seeds. The chemical composition, organoleptic properties and antioxidant activity of high antioxidant Talbina were determined. Sensory evaluation of traditional and high antioxidant Talbina showed that the developed product Talbina was considered as good for overall acceptability of all panelists. Also, the formulated Talbina contains high values of antioxidants components and natural nutrients. The antioxidant activity of formulated Talbina containing barley or oat may be due to presence of phenolic compounds and proanthocyanidins in the barley and oat. Increasing the antioxidant activity of high antioxidant Talbina containing barley and oat may be due to the adding of dates palm seeds which contain very high values of phenolic compounds and other antioxidants components. Date palm seeds as well as barley and/or oat give high antioxidants components which protect cells from oxidative stress and help to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease as well as natural anti-depressant. Moreover, increasing the antioxidant activity in the formulated Talbina may play a role for reducing power, radical scavenging activity and the lipid peroxidation inhibition. In conclusion, supplementation of traditional Talbina containing barley and/or oat with date palm syrup (debis) and date palm seeds can produce simple and healthy meal to provide a good source of daily dietary antioxidants and micronutrients.展开更多
The establishment of nature reserves is a key approach for biodiversity conservation worldwide. However, there is a lack of unified methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of nature reserves, particularly in China, ...The establishment of nature reserves is a key approach for biodiversity conservation worldwide. However, there is a lack of unified methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of nature reserves, particularly in China, the world′s most populous nation supporting some of the most valuable biodiversity hotspots in the world. In this study, we conducted a long-term and large-scale analysis of the effectiveness of 20 of the earliest nature reserves established in Hainan Province, an island home to among the highest concentration of plants and animals in China. Remote sensing imagery from 1988, 1998, and 2008 were analyzed to investigate the temporal and spatial changes of natural forests in these nature reserves and surrounding areas. We also conducted transition matrix analysis and principle component analysis to identify the driving factors that affect the protection effectiveness of nature reserves. The results were as follows: 1) During the 20-year period from 1988 to 2008, natural forests coverage of the 20 studied nature reserves dropped 2.34 percentage points, whereas the natural forests coverage dropped 11.31 percentage points in a 0–5 km outside reserve buffer and 9.36 percentage points in a 5–10 km outside reserve buffer, indicating a significant inhibitory effect of the nature reserves on the loss of natural forests. 2) Natural forests coverage dropped in 60% of the studied nature reserves during the 20-year period, suggesting a poor protection effectiveness of these reserves, while the coverage proportion showed some increase(0%/yr–5%/yr) in other reserves. 3) Expansion of rubber and pulp forests as part of a booming economy were the main factors affecting the effectiveness of the nature reserves for conserving natural forests in Hainan Province. The results of this study provide an important empirical basis for the protection of natural forests in Hainan Province, which can be used as a blueprint for nature reserve evaluation in other places in China.展开更多
The effects and heat transfer mode of water film and sprinkler system on the heat-resistant property associated with the insulation of a fireproof glass were investigated. In the experiments, fireproof glass with a si...The effects and heat transfer mode of water film and sprinkler system on the heat-resistant property associated with the insulation of a fireproof glass were investigated. In the experiments, fireproof glass with a size of 3 300 mm (height)×2 200 mm (width) ×12 mm (thickness) was exposed to an oil pool fire with a power of approximately 1.4 MW. The experimental results show that the application of the water film or sprinkler system on the glass can effectively resist the intensive heat from the fire in the test due to the absorption of latent heat. The permitted period of integrity and insulation with a water film and a sprinkler system could be extended to 60 min. It should be noted that the temperature of the glass surface Can be kept under 60℃in a 60 min test. The experimental results suggest that it is feasible to substitute fireproof glass with water film for a fireproof door as long as the water film or sprinkler system can work stably and water can cover the whole surface of the frreproof glass.展开更多
The article surveys the development of the environmental movement in Israel from the establishment of the state through the present day. Based on trends and transformations in the institutional planning system, it app...The article surveys the development of the environmental movement in Israel from the establishment of the state through the present day. Based on trends and transformations in the institutional planning system, it appears that activism by environmental movement organizations in Israel can be divided into three sub-periods: the establishment period, marked by the Sharon Plan, the founding of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel and MALRAZ--Council for the Prevention of Noise and Air Pollution in Israel, and the enactment of the Kanovitch Law and the National Parks and Nature Reserves Law (1963). The next phase of institutionalization is characterized by the establishment of designated institutional bodies--the Nature Reserves Authority, the National Parks Authority and the Environmental Protection Service, and their integration into the national planning system. The institutionalization period concludes with the establishment of the Ministry of the Environment (1989) and the transition to the third period, sustainability. Prominent during this period is a trend toward multidimensional proactive environmental planning and policymaking, reaching across many areas and including extensive regulation As far as environmental organizations are concerned, these three periods comprised a framework of cultural action in which they developed, acted and shaped environmental discourse and practice in Israel. Based on other studies, the article offers a model that illustrates the development of the environmental movement while emphasizing the interaction between individual actors, local organizing and national organizations. Finally, some characteristics and insights regarding activism by environmental organizations in Israel are suggested.展开更多
This paper examines the role and effectiveness of locacal institutions in the management of forest biodiversity in New Dabaga-Ulongambi Forest Reserve, Tanzania. Data were obtained through questionnaires, interviews, ...This paper examines the role and effectiveness of locacal institutions in the management of forest biodiversity in New Dabaga-Ulongambi Forest Reserve, Tanzania. Data were obtained through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, participatory rural appraisal and field observations. The study revealed that the most remarkable local institutions connected to forest biodiversity management include: Village Natural Resources Man- agement Committee (92%), tree nursery group (79.4%), beekeep- ing groups (61.1%), fish fanning (43.3%), livestock rearing group (33.9%). Main activities carried out by local institutions which directly contribute to the sustainability Of forest reserve include: forest patrols, fire extinguish, preparation of fire breaks, plant- ing of trees along the forest boundaries, creation of awareness, arresting of forest defaulters, participation in income generation activities. For the purpose of realization that local communities are capable of managing forest biodiversity through their traditional institutions, the policy should provide tangible opportunity for local communities to meet their needs as they manage the forests.展开更多
Direct use values of forest ecosystem have been recognized apparently due toits easy and convenient assessment, while indirect use values are usually neglected because they arenot easy to be recognized by the public. ...Direct use values of forest ecosystem have been recognized apparently due toits easy and convenient assessment, while indirect use values are usually neglected because they arenot easy to be recognized by the public. For a nature reserve with forest ecosystem, the mostimportant economic values are the indirect use values, which provide human beings and other livingthings with beneficial services through ecological processes and functions. In this case study, aquantifying framework to estimate the annual indirect use values of forest ecosystem has beenestablished in Yaoluoping National Nature Reserve based on alternative cost method and opportunitycost method. The ecological functions assessed in the study relate to six aspects: soil protection,water conservation, CO_2 fixation, nutrient cycling, pollutant decomposition and disease and pestcontrol. These ecological functions provide an economic value of 86.1xl0~6 yuan (RMB) per year(US$10.37xl0~6), which is 25 times higher than the opportunity cost for regular timber production.This study can contribute to the monetary assessment of indirect use values of forest biodiversityand to the conservation and sustainable use of nature reserves.展开更多
文摘Plant diversity, animal diversity and ecosystem diversity in the wetland were studied with field investigation and statistical analysis, and then biodiversity of Chen Lake wetland was also valued. The results showed that the reasonable utilization and protection for biodiversity of Chen Lake wetland gave important contribution to improving the regional environment and sustainable development of Wuhan, and even the middle-lower Yangtze area.
基金Conservation Technology for Endangered Wildlife Program, Social Service Project of the Ministry of Science and Technology (No. 2001DIB100058)National Key Project of 10th Five-Year Plan (No. 2001BA510B10).
文摘The Tibetan antelope (Pantholops hodgsonii), indigenous to China, became an endangered species because of considerable reduction both in number and distribution during the 20th century. Presently, it is listed as an Appendix Ⅰ species by CITES and as Category I by the Key Protected Wildlife List of China. Understanding the genetic diversity and population structure of the Tibetan antelope is significant for the development of effective conservation plans that will ensure the recovery and future persistence of this species. Twenty-five microsatellites were selected to obtain loci with sufficient levels of polymorphism that can provide information for the analysis of population structure. Among the 25 loci that were examined, nine of them showed high levels of genetic diversity. The nine variable loci (MCM38, MNS64, IOBT395, MCMAL TGLA68, BM1329, BMSI341, BM3501, and MB066) were used to examine the genetic diversity of the Tibetan antelope (n = 75) in Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve(HXNNR), Qinghai, China. The results obtained by estimating the number of population suggested that all the 75 Tibetan antelope samples were from the same population. The mean number of alleles per locus was 9.4 ± 0.5300 (range, 7-12) and the mean effective number of alleles was 6.519± 0.5271 (range, 4.676-9.169). The observed mean and expected heterozygosity were 0.844 ± 0.0133 (range, 0.791-0.897) and 0.838 ± 0.0132 (range, 0.786-0.891), respectively. Mean Polymorphism Information Content (PIC) was 0.818 ± 0.0158 (range, 0.753-0.881). The value of Fixation index (Fis) ranged from -0.269 to -0.097 with the mean of -0.163 ± 0.0197. Mean Shannon's information index was 1.990 ± 0.0719 among nine loci (range, 1.660-2.315). These results provide baseline data for the evaluation of the level of genetic variation in Tibetan antelope, which will be important for the development of conservation strategies in future.
文摘In the paper, the effects of linear expansion coefficient and basic index of melting slag on the detachability of self shielded flux cored electrode (SSFCE) are investigated. An equation is obtained on the principles of ceramics and mineralography which predict the detachability of basic SSFCE. In addition, stick slag mechanism of SSFCE is analyzed.
文摘lbex (Capra ibex), a first grade protected animal, has not been well studied in China. Surveys were conducted to investigate the distribution of the ibex in the Tomur National Nature Reserve during October--November 2004, July 2005, and October-December 2005. The results were as follows: (1) Out of five valleys, the ibex was distributed in the Qiong-Tailan, Keqik-Tailan, and Muzart Valleys: (2) Ibexes were not observed in the Tomur Valley and Kuzbayi Valley in our surveys, but interview investigations indicated that they may be found here as well. Our results indicated that the nature reserve as a whole is in the distribution range of ibex and it plays an important role in protecting ibex and the alpine biodiversity. However, the uneven distribution pattern can be due to human activities. Therefore, the management of the reserve needs to be improved in the future.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation(40971160)Project of Guizhou Provincial Natural Science Foundation(2007-2049)+2 种基金Guizhou Provincial High-grade Talents Project(TZJF-2008-40)Supporting Project for Guizhou Provincial Outstanding Young S&T Talents in 2009Key Project of Guizhou Normal University Students'Tasks~~
文摘With Maolan Nature Reserve as an example, its forest landscape characteristics and diversity were studied by utilizing GIS. The results showed that the overall forest landscape in Maolan Nature Reserve was quite good, but with the increasing natural interferences and human activities, shrub forests and non-woodland landscape types have been multiplied; among the 3 functional zones of the Nature Reserve, landscape fragmentation degree is low in core zone and buffer zone, but high in experimental zone.
文摘The article presents research findings related to recreational use of forests located in protected mountainous areas with forestage of over 80%. The study was designed to identify recreational potential of the Carpathian national parks (Bieszczady National Park, Bahia G6ra National Park, Goree National Park and Magura National Park; southern Poland) and to compare these findings with the actual number of visitors. The information received on the recreational potential of parks is important from the point of view of protection of natural resources and the financial situation of the parks. The calculated ratio may be an effective tool of management for park administration, that allows to reconcile statutory social and protective functions of national parks. The study determined the recreational potential of the forests with the use of recreational valorisation method designed for areas with varied terrain, and the evaluated factors included the stands of trees with their habitat and land relief. The permissible number of national park visitors, expressed as man- hour/ha/year ranges from 19.31 in Bieszczady National Park (BG: 19~ 35' E, 49~ 35' N) to 32.06 in in Bieszczady National Park (B: 22~ 40' E, 49~ lo' N). In 3 out of 4 investigated parks, Magura National Park (M: 21025' E, 49~ 30' N), Gorce National Park (G: 20~ lo' E, 49~ 35' N), B) recreation carrying capacity was not exceeded, whether or not the strictly protected area is taken into account. Only in BG was the recreation carrying capacity exceeded by nearly 24%, or by 85% if the strictly protected area isexcluded from tourism-related exploitation. The presented procedure for monitoring access to mountain forests in national parks, from the viewpoint of natural resources conservation, can be applied in other mountainous areas covered with forests and exposed to tourist and recreational traffic, and in forests facing particular risk of recreational damage, e.g. in urban and suburban forests growing in areas with varied orography.
文摘The Sanjiang Plain is a vast area of alluvial floodplains and low hills in northeast Heilongjiang Province. It is the largest tract of wetlands in China and East Asia outside of Siberia. 28 wetland nature reserves exist on the Sanjiang Plain, and three of them have been listed as wetlands of international importance to water bird conservation by the Ramsar Convention Bureau. The wetlands of Sanjiang Plain are noteworthy for its rich biodiversity, but they continue to decline in area and deteriorate in quality currently. The main threats or constrains, immediate cause, root cause and required response are analyzed in this paper, and the four aspects opinion such as improvement of watershed management, enhancement of protection and restoration of habitats and biodiversity, alternative livelihoods of rural residents living in and near natural wetland reserve, and reinforcement of capacity building of natural reserves are brought forward as the effective measures for the Sanjiang Plain wetland protection.
基金funded by the International Program of the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2010DFA91280)111 Project(B08037)
文摘This paper reports the first photosynthetic study of marestail in Jiuzhaigou. In this work, we used PAM fluorometry to examine photosynthetic rates of submerged and emerged marestail in three lakes. Three lakes were studied across a gradient of water temperature, with low water temperature conditions in Grass Lake and Arrow Bamboo Lake, and higher water temperature in Five Colored Lake. In the field, electron transport rates (ETRmax) were measured as rapid light curves (RLCs) by in situ yield measurements. Submerged and emerged marestail showed higher photosynthetic activity in Five Colored Lake compared to the other lakes, a response consistent with the adaptation of marestail in Five Colored Lake to high water temperature. The optimal temperature for photosynthesis of submerged marestail in Jiuzhaigou was about 12 ~C. Non- photochemical quenching (NPQ) of submerged and emerged marestail increased with increasing water temperature. Maximum quantum yield (Fv/Fm) of submerged marestail in Five Colored Lake showed full recovery at 170o h due to higher NPQ. Further, the chlorophyll a for submerged marestail was the highestin Grass Lake and the lowest in Five Colored Lake. These results indicate that in different lakes the function of these aquatic plants is associated with a diversity of place-dependent environmental conditions, especially water temperature that leads to pronounced differences in the plant's ecophysiological reactions.
基金Support from projects PAPIIT IN215914 and IV201015
文摘We analyzed the distributional patterns of95 selected species of leptosporangiate ferns inhabiting the Mexican Mountain Component, using grid-cells of one geographical degree as unit areas,applying endemism indices and richness and beta diversity analyses.Distributional data were obtained from several herbaria and specialized literature.Five grid-cells appear to be important for fern species richness, as they contain 35 to 49 species.These gridcells are located in the Sierra Madre Oriental(SMO),Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt(TMVB) and the Sierra Madre del Sur(SMS).Mean richness by latitudinal belts of one degree showed that the belts with highest values are related to the TMVB and SMS.A total of 13grid-cells were recognized as important from theperspective of endemism; most of them are located also in the SMO, TMVB and SMS.The richest gridcells coincided with one of the main centres of endemism for ferns obtained in this study, located in the convergence of the southern part of the SMO, the eastern portion of the TMVB and the northern part of the SMS, reflecting the high humidity existing on the mountain slopes facing the Gulf of Mexico.Some important grid-cells recognized from richness and endemism analyses coincide with Mexican Natural Protected Areas.The beta diversity analysis showed a low degree of similarity among grid-cells, implying a high species replacement, as the result of environmental heterogeneity occurring in the Mexican mountain systems.On the other hand, the spatial analysis suggested a pattern of phytogeographical regionalization comprising twomain areas: the Mexican Transition Zone and the Mexican Central Plateau.Ferns play an important role in the Mexican biodiversity and contributing to the beta diversity of Mexico.
文摘We studied the locomotor behaviour of white-headed langurs Trachypithecus leucocephalus and Francois' langurs T.francoisi to test two hypotheses: (1) these monkeys have evolved locomotor ability to support their activities on limestone hills, and (2) Francois' langurs have evolved more diverse locomotor skills than white-headed langurs. Data were collected from 1996 - 1998 and in 2005 in Fusui Nature Reserve, Guangxi, and showed that the two species had similar locomotor types, but Francois' langurs had more locomotor modes (26) than white-headed langurs (12). Quadrupedal walking and leaping were two major types, and white-headed langurs were more arboreal than Francois' langurs. We suggest that, while keeping their ancestral locomotor types, the two species have evolved new types allowing them to live on limestone cliffs. Compared to white-headed langurs, Francois' langurs have more diverse locomotor modes that probably have allowed them to live in more habitat types. As an evolutionary outcome, Francois' langurs have a larger distribution range .
基金Supported by Xishuangbanna Tropic Rain Forest Conservation Foundation~~
文摘Xishuangbanna is a multinational region and different ethnic groups have self-owned traditional ways of protecting biodiversity, represented by Dragon Moun-tain and Hil Cemetery, and Temple Forest. As population increases and economy develops, people’s consciousness of traditional culture is fading and both of the number and area of sacred natural sites underwent changes, undermining the role of sacred natural sites playing in biodiversity protection, especial y for species pro-tection and gene exchange.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(30870308 and 31071944)the Shanghai Rising-Star Program(10QA1402200)
文摘Cervus sichuanicus is a species of sika deer (Cervus nippon Group). To date, research has mainly focused on quantity surveying and behavior studies, with genetic information on this species currently deficient. To provide scientific evidence to assist in the protection of this species, we collected Sichuan sika deer fecal samples from the Sichuan Tiebu Nature Reserve (TNR) and extracted DNA from those samples. Microsatellite loci of bovine were used for PCR amplification. After GeneScan, the genotype data were used to analyze the genetic diversity and population structure of the Sichuan sika deer in TNR. Results showed that the average expected heterozygosity of the Sichuan sika deer population in TNR was 0.562, equivalent to the average expected heterozygosity of endangered animals, such as Procapra przewalsldi. Furthermore, 8 of 9 microsatellite loci significantly deviated from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and two groups existed within the Sichuan sika deer TNR population. This genetic structure may be caused by a group of Manchurian sika deer (Cervus hortulorum) released in TNR.
文摘Functional properties of Talbina were used in ancient Arab for nutritional purpose. It was a meal made from barley flour and milk. The high antioxidant Talbina was formulated from whole flour of harley and oat, milk, date palm syrup (debis) and date palm seeds. The chemical composition, organoleptic properties and antioxidant activity of high antioxidant Talbina were determined. Sensory evaluation of traditional and high antioxidant Talbina showed that the developed product Talbina was considered as good for overall acceptability of all panelists. Also, the formulated Talbina contains high values of antioxidants components and natural nutrients. The antioxidant activity of formulated Talbina containing barley or oat may be due to presence of phenolic compounds and proanthocyanidins in the barley and oat. Increasing the antioxidant activity of high antioxidant Talbina containing barley and oat may be due to the adding of dates palm seeds which contain very high values of phenolic compounds and other antioxidants components. Date palm seeds as well as barley and/or oat give high antioxidants components which protect cells from oxidative stress and help to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease as well as natural anti-depressant. Moreover, increasing the antioxidant activity in the formulated Talbina may play a role for reducing power, radical scavenging activity and the lipid peroxidation inhibition. In conclusion, supplementation of traditional Talbina containing barley and/or oat with date palm syrup (debis) and date palm seeds can produce simple and healthy meal to provide a good source of daily dietary antioxidants and micronutrients.
基金Under the auspices of Nationwide Remote Sensing Survey and Evaluation on Ecological Environment Change in 2000–2010(No.STSN-04-00)
文摘The establishment of nature reserves is a key approach for biodiversity conservation worldwide. However, there is a lack of unified methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of nature reserves, particularly in China, the world′s most populous nation supporting some of the most valuable biodiversity hotspots in the world. In this study, we conducted a long-term and large-scale analysis of the effectiveness of 20 of the earliest nature reserves established in Hainan Province, an island home to among the highest concentration of plants and animals in China. Remote sensing imagery from 1988, 1998, and 2008 were analyzed to investigate the temporal and spatial changes of natural forests in these nature reserves and surrounding areas. We also conducted transition matrix analysis and principle component analysis to identify the driving factors that affect the protection effectiveness of nature reserves. The results were as follows: 1) During the 20-year period from 1988 to 2008, natural forests coverage of the 20 studied nature reserves dropped 2.34 percentage points, whereas the natural forests coverage dropped 11.31 percentage points in a 0–5 km outside reserve buffer and 9.36 percentage points in a 5–10 km outside reserve buffer, indicating a significant inhibitory effect of the nature reserves on the loss of natural forests. 2) Natural forests coverage dropped in 60% of the studied nature reserves during the 20-year period, suggesting a poor protection effectiveness of these reserves, while the coverage proportion showed some increase(0%/yr–5%/yr) in other reserves. 3) Expansion of rubber and pulp forests as part of a booming economy were the main factors affecting the effectiveness of the nature reserves for conserving natural forests in Hainan Province. The results of this study provide an important empirical basis for the protection of natural forests in Hainan Province, which can be used as a blueprint for nature reserve evaluation in other places in China.
基金Project(2006BAK06B02) supported by the National Science and Technology Pillar Program during the Eleven Five-Year Plans of ChinaProject(70701019) supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China
文摘The effects and heat transfer mode of water film and sprinkler system on the heat-resistant property associated with the insulation of a fireproof glass were investigated. In the experiments, fireproof glass with a size of 3 300 mm (height)×2 200 mm (width) ×12 mm (thickness) was exposed to an oil pool fire with a power of approximately 1.4 MW. The experimental results show that the application of the water film or sprinkler system on the glass can effectively resist the intensive heat from the fire in the test due to the absorption of latent heat. The permitted period of integrity and insulation with a water film and a sprinkler system could be extended to 60 min. It should be noted that the temperature of the glass surface Can be kept under 60℃in a 60 min test. The experimental results suggest that it is feasible to substitute fireproof glass with water film for a fireproof door as long as the water film or sprinkler system can work stably and water can cover the whole surface of the frreproof glass.
文摘The article surveys the development of the environmental movement in Israel from the establishment of the state through the present day. Based on trends and transformations in the institutional planning system, it appears that activism by environmental movement organizations in Israel can be divided into three sub-periods: the establishment period, marked by the Sharon Plan, the founding of the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel and MALRAZ--Council for the Prevention of Noise and Air Pollution in Israel, and the enactment of the Kanovitch Law and the National Parks and Nature Reserves Law (1963). The next phase of institutionalization is characterized by the establishment of designated institutional bodies--the Nature Reserves Authority, the National Parks Authority and the Environmental Protection Service, and their integration into the national planning system. The institutionalization period concludes with the establishment of the Ministry of the Environment (1989) and the transition to the third period, sustainability. Prominent during this period is a trend toward multidimensional proactive environmental planning and policymaking, reaching across many areas and including extensive regulation As far as environmental organizations are concerned, these three periods comprised a framework of cultural action in which they developed, acted and shaped environmental discourse and practice in Israel. Based on other studies, the article offers a model that illustrates the development of the environmental movement while emphasizing the interaction between individual actors, local organizing and national organizations. Finally, some characteristics and insights regarding activism by environmental organizations in Israel are suggested.
基金TAFORI and Forestry and Beekeeping Division through Participatory Forest Management (PFM)grant for funding this study
文摘This paper examines the role and effectiveness of locacal institutions in the management of forest biodiversity in New Dabaga-Ulongambi Forest Reserve, Tanzania. Data were obtained through questionnaires, interviews, focus group discussions, participatory rural appraisal and field observations. The study revealed that the most remarkable local institutions connected to forest biodiversity management include: Village Natural Resources Man- agement Committee (92%), tree nursery group (79.4%), beekeep- ing groups (61.1%), fish fanning (43.3%), livestock rearing group (33.9%). Main activities carried out by local institutions which directly contribute to the sustainability Of forest reserve include: forest patrols, fire extinguish, preparation of fire breaks, plant- ing of trees along the forest boundaries, creation of awareness, arresting of forest defaulters, participation in income generation activities. For the purpose of realization that local communities are capable of managing forest biodiversity through their traditional institutions, the policy should provide tangible opportunity for local communities to meet their needs as they manage the forests.
文摘Direct use values of forest ecosystem have been recognized apparently due toits easy and convenient assessment, while indirect use values are usually neglected because they arenot easy to be recognized by the public. For a nature reserve with forest ecosystem, the mostimportant economic values are the indirect use values, which provide human beings and other livingthings with beneficial services through ecological processes and functions. In this case study, aquantifying framework to estimate the annual indirect use values of forest ecosystem has beenestablished in Yaoluoping National Nature Reserve based on alternative cost method and opportunitycost method. The ecological functions assessed in the study relate to six aspects: soil protection,water conservation, CO_2 fixation, nutrient cycling, pollutant decomposition and disease and pestcontrol. These ecological functions provide an economic value of 86.1xl0~6 yuan (RMB) per year(US$10.37xl0~6), which is 25 times higher than the opportunity cost for regular timber production.This study can contribute to the monetary assessment of indirect use values of forest biodiversityand to the conservation and sustainable use of nature reserves.