This paper will explore the common origins and developments of Judaism,Christianity,and Islam,known as the Abrahamic faiths.Drawing on the references of F.E.Peters and Huston Smith,this paper examines how these tradit...This paper will explore the common origins and developments of Judaism,Christianity,and Islam,known as the Abrahamic faiths.Drawing on the references of F.E.Peters and Huston Smith,this paper examines how these traditions are unified by monotheism,reverence for sacred scripture,and ethical principles,yet dives in their historical narratives,interpretations of covenant,and worship practices.Spiritual figures such as Abraham,Moses,Jesus,and Muhammad are analyzed for their roles in shaping theology and guiding communities of faith.The study highlights the Torah,Bible,and Qur’an as sources of authority and identity,while comparing moral teachings and ritual expressions across the traditions.An emphasis is placed on the shared values and theological differences that have shaped both dialogue and conflict.Ultimately,the paper demonstrates how understanding these faiths together deepens insight into their enduring influence on culture,spirituality,and human history.展开更多
Sacred forests play a valuable role in the conservation of local biodiversity and provide numerous ecosystem services in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to estimate floristic diversity, stand structures and carbon...Sacred forests play a valuable role in the conservation of local biodiversity and provide numerous ecosystem services in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to estimate floristic diversity, stand structures and carbon stocks in the sacred forests of Bandrefam and Batoufam (western Cameroon). The floristic inventory and the stand structures were carried out in 25 m × 25 m plots for individuals with diameters greater than 10 cm;5 m × 5 m for individuals with diameters less than 10 cm. Carbon stocks were estimated using the non-destructive method and allometric equations. The floristic inventory identified 65 species divided into 57 genera and 30 families in the Bandrefam sacred forest and 45 species divided into 42 genera and 27 families in the Batoufam sacred forest. In the Bandrefam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (53.98%), Moraceae (21.69%), Lamiaceae (20.15%). At Batoufam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (39.73%), Fabaceae (28.47%), Araliaceae (23.77%). Malacantha alnifolia (55.14%), Vitex grandifolia (18.43%), Bosqueia angolensis (15.06%) were the most important species in Bandrefam. Otherwise, Malacantha alnifolia (28%), Polyscias fulva (22.73%), Psychotria sp. (21.28%) were the most important in Batoufam. The Bandrefam sacred forest has the highest tree density (2669 stems/ha). Total carbon stock is 484.88 ± 2.28 tC/ha at Batoufam and 313.95 ± 0.93 tC/ha at Bandrefam. The economic value varies between 5858.04 ± 27.62 USD/ha in Batoufam sacred forest and 3788.51 ± 11.26 USD/ha in Bandrefam sacred forest. The number of individuals and small-diameter trees has little influence on the carbon stocks in the trees. Medium-diameter trees store the most carbon, and very large-diameter trees, which are very poorly represented, store less carbon. In another way, wood density and the basal areas influence the carbon storage of the trees.展开更多
Existing knowledge on degraded mountain landscapes does not shed sufficient light on the socio-economic and ecological opportunities essential for successful restoration initiatives.To address this knowledge lacuna,a ...Existing knowledge on degraded mountain landscapes does not shed sufficient light on the socio-economic and ecological opportunities essential for successful restoration initiatives.To address this knowledge lacuna,a study was conducted on the Bamboutos Mountains landscape in Cameroon with the main objective being to analyse the opportunities for restoring this landscape in line with local,national and international development goals and to minimise the negative effects of land-use decisions.Following the Restoration Opportunity Assessment Methodology(ROAM)approach,five participatory reflection workshops were organized in the five target clusters of the landscape for data collection.The results of the study led to the development of a restoration map that presents five interventions:grassland management on an area of 4,720 ha currently occupied by shrub savannah;the practice of fruit-based agroforestry on 3,221 ha of agricultural fields;the planting of riparian forests on 451 ha of degraded watercourses;the revegetation and conservation of the Bamboutos Mountains forest reserve,sacred forests and relics of degraded forests on 435 ha of area;and the revegetation of 6 ha of degraded water sources.The carbon stocks vary from 2.66 to 345.15 tC/ha depending on the type of restoration intervention with a total carbon stock of 247,367.45 tC/ha on the 8,834 ha of area to be restored.This presents a very satisfactory economic cost-benefit,because for an investment of USD 5,991,269.84,a gain of USD 100,439,519.13 could be achieved after 20 years,i.e.,an estimated profit of USD 94,448,249.29.These results provide an understanding of the types of restoration interventions possible in this landscape,a solid basis for planning a restoration initiative.The results equally provide guidance on priority areas from a social,economic,and ecological perspective.展开更多
1 A rare white bison calf,celebrated by Native American communities since its birth in Yellowstone National Park,has not been seen since June,according to the National Park Service.The calf was born on June 4 in Lamar...1 A rare white bison calf,celebrated by Native American communities since its birth in Yellowstone National Park,has not been seen since June,according to the National Park Service.The calf was born on June 4 in Lamar Valley and was captured on camera by visitors and photographers.Its photos quickly spread online,capturing the hearts of social media users and Native American tribes who consider the animal sacred.展开更多
On a summer morning in Boqiang Village,tucked beneath the emerald mountains of Fanshi County,Shanxi Province,the Ultra Trail Mount Wutai 2025 commenced with the sound of the starting pistol-an event that was much more...On a summer morning in Boqiang Village,tucked beneath the emerald mountains of Fanshi County,Shanxi Province,the Ultra Trail Mount Wutai 2025 commenced with the sound of the starting pistol-an event that was much more than just a competition.As soon as the colourful smoke bombs lit up the sky,some 2,000 runners from China and abroad set off to reach one of the country’s most sacred Buddhist peaks.Over the past decade,this race has become a fixture on the global running calendar and a symbol of the growing popularity of endurance sports.展开更多
While Bronze Age Proto-Sinaic and Proto-Canaanite syllabic inscriptions were found engraved on fragments of pottery and stone,evidence of early alphabetic script was also inscribed in ink onto a massive parchment scro...While Bronze Age Proto-Sinaic and Proto-Canaanite syllabic inscriptions were found engraved on fragments of pottery and stone,evidence of early alphabetic script was also inscribed in ink onto a massive parchment scroll,known as the Torah.Albeit the contours of those original characters transformed over time,it took the clairvoyant genius of Moses,and later the scribes of Ancient Israel,to configure and adapt ancient semitic prototypes into phonetic letters,producing the greatest literary document in the history of the world,the Bible.This article summarizes the acoustic properties of that alphabet,with further historical considerations.展开更多
The purpose of the article is to present several topics in Russian music of the Soviet era(roughly 1920-1990).The time that has passed since the fall of the Iron Curtain allows us to rethink and revise the cultural tr...The purpose of the article is to present several topics in Russian music of the Soviet era(roughly 1920-1990).The time that has passed since the fall of the Iron Curtain allows us to rethink and revise the cultural treasures of seven decades and reassess new research of the last decade,carried out both by people who previously gained a reputation as an authority in Soviet culture,and by scientists who came from this environment and began sharing their vision of the subject after acquiring the skills of a Western scholar.The article is based mainly on the latter research and tries to see its subject as a complete picture,albeit with missing details,so to speak,a postmodern picture that requires the reader to participate in its refinement.The methodological basis of this study is working with published sources through the critical lens of cultural anthropology as it has developed and presently looks.展开更多
With Mosuo's sacred natural sites of mountainous forest in Yongning-Lugu Lake area as the research subject,by using the method of ecology,the vegetation type in this area was initially identified.The control sampl...With Mosuo's sacred natural sites of mountainous forest in Yongning-Lugu Lake area as the research subject,by using the method of ecology,the vegetation type in this area was initially identified.The control sample plot of the same vegetation type at similar altitude and in similar soil condition would be selected and compared with the sample plot in sacred natural sites at length,so as to quantitatively analyze the protection of biological diversity in the perspective of ecological system.It showed that under the circumstance of the damage of ecological environment,complete natural vertical pattern was preserved thanks to sacred natural sites of mountainous forest established by reason of traditional religion and culture.The results of research and quantitative analysis showed that compared with the control sample plot of the same vegetation type,sacred natural sites were high in biological diversity and the species composition of plant community in sacred natural sites was closer to that of primitive forest.The result of quantitative analysis also indicated that sacred natural sites played a remarkable role in protecting vegetation and this protective function became more remarkable if the altitude was higher.And human were reminded to pay close attention to the preservation and protection function of sacred natural sites to natural ecological system at high altitude.展开更多
Based on the experience of ethnographic filming,this article outlines the dynamic process of the protection and development of Baima Tibetan traditional villages with the help of iconic descriptions of Baima Tibetans...Based on the experience of ethnographic filming,this article outlines the dynamic process of the protection and development of Baima Tibetan traditional villages with the help of iconic descriptions of Baima Tibetans’daily lives and sacrificial activities,and explores how Baima Tibetans inherit their culture while adapting to social development with imagery means during rural revitalization,and how the locals integrate sacred space and secular experience in order to construct their own cultural symbols for the sake of embracing the new era.As far as anthropology-ethnographic descriptions of embodiment are concerned,traditional text research has limitations.In comparison,video graphic anthropology has natural advantages.Its advantages not only lie in the means of images,but also lie in the ability to connect the“sense of things”,mind and nature,realizing the interaction between mind and things,and mentality and object.The visual ethnography is an important research method for anthropological research to enter the world of his other.This is also an important way to describe the integration and symbiosis of local subjectivity,local sacred space,and secular experience.展开更多
Carbon stock estimation was conducted in tree species of Sem Mukhem sacred forest in district Tehri of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttara- khand, India. This forest is dedicated to Nagraj Devta and is dominated by tree species,...Carbon stock estimation was conducted in tree species of Sem Mukhem sacred forest in district Tehri of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttara- khand, India. This forest is dedicated to Nagraj Devta and is dominated by tree species, including Quercus floribunda, Quercus semecarpifolia and Rhododendron arboreum. The highest values of below ground bio- mass density, total biomass density and total carbon density were （34.81±1.68） Mg·ha^-1, （168.26±9.04） Mg·ha^-1 and （84.13±4.18） Mg·ha^-1 for Pinus wallichiana. Overall values of total biomass density and total carbon density calculated were 1549.704 Mg·ha^-1 and 774.77 Mg·ha^-1 respectively. Total value of growing stock volume density for all species was 732.56 m3·ha^-1 and ranged from （144.97±11.98） m3·ha^-1 for Pinus wallichiana to （7.78±1.78） m3·ha^-1for Benthamidia capitata.展开更多
We have quantitatively analyzed the tree species diversity with respect to soil nutrient status in three sites of a sacred forest ecosystem of Niyamgiri hill range, Eastern Ghats, India. Extensive field surveys and sa...We have quantitatively analyzed the tree species diversity with respect to soil nutrient status in three sites of a sacred forest ecosystem of Niyamgiri hill range, Eastern Ghats, India. Extensive field surveys and sampling were conducted in 3 sites of the hill range： Site 1 Pterocarpus dominated forest （PTF） （19°40＇02.2＇＇ N and 83°21＇23.1＇＇ E）, Site 2 Mangifera dominated forest （MAF） （19°40＇02.8＇＇ N and 83°21＇40.8＇＇ E） and Site 3 Mixed forest （MIF） （19°36＇47.1＂ N and 83°21＇02.7＇＇ E）. A total of 28 families, 42 genera, 46 tree species, and 286 individual trees were recorded on an area of0.6 ha. Tree density varied between 470 and 49o individuals ha and average basal area between 3.16 and l0.04 m2 ha-1. Shannon Index （H＇） ranged from 2.34 to 4.53, Simpson＇s Index ranged from 0.07 to o.09, and equitability Index ranged from 0.7 to 1.34. The number of individuals was highest in the girth at breast height （GBH） class of 50-7o cm. The soil nutrient status of the three forest types was related to tree species diversity. The soil pH value of the three sites reflected the slightly acidic nature of the area. Species diversity was positively correlated with organic carbon and phosphorus and negatively with nitrogen, EC and pH. The results of the current study may be helpful to further develop a conservation planfor tree species in tropical sacred forest ecosystems.展开更多
Aboveground biomass and carbon stock in the largest sacred grove of Manipur was estimated for trees with diameter [10 cm at 1.37 m height.The aboveground biomass,carbon stock,tree density and basal area of the sacred ...Aboveground biomass and carbon stock in the largest sacred grove of Manipur was estimated for trees with diameter [10 cm at 1.37 m height.The aboveground biomass,carbon stock,tree density and basal area of the sacred grove ranged from 962.94 to 1130.79 Mg ha;,481.47 to 565.40 Mg ha;C,1240 to 1320 stem ha;and79.43 to 90.64 m;ha;,respectively.Trees in diameter class of 30–40 cm contributed the highest proportion of aboveground biomass（22.50–33.73%）.The aboveground biomass and carbon stock in research area were higher than reported for many tropical and temperate forests,suggesting a role of spiritual forest conservation for carbon sink management.展开更多
In Meghalaya, northeast India, the local people have the tradition of managing forest resources since early ages. The management practice varies and there are forests with high degree of protection, where no extractio...In Meghalaya, northeast India, the local people have the tradition of managing forest resources since early ages. The management practice varies and there are forests with high degree of protection, where no extraction(sacred forests) is allowed. There are also forests with moderate-level of protection and-extraction(reserved forests) as well as forests with low level of protection and open extraction(village forests). The present study was conducted to understand the impact of this traditional management system on the level of human disturbance, and on community composition and structure of the forests in Khasi hills of Meghalaya. The result revealed that disturbance index was low, whereas species richness, density and basal cover were significantly high in forests with high degree of protection(sacred forest) than those with low protection(reserved and village forest). Majority of endemic and threatened plant species were restricted to sacred forests as compared to the other forest types. Though these practices have ensured the sustainable use of forest resources by the local people but due to increased human-pressure and-disturbances, more effective conservation strategies need to be undertaken. Therefore, providing alternatives for fuelwood to local people, environmental education, encouraging afforestation and developmental activities involving local communities are recommended.展开更多
Graveyards or sacred groves are often places of natural vegetation protected by spiritual believers because of their sacred beliefs and indigenous culture.A study of graveyards was conducted to determine their role in...Graveyards or sacred groves are often places of natural vegetation protected by spiritual believers because of their sacred beliefs and indigenous culture.A study of graveyards was conducted to determine their role in species conservation,community formation,and associated indicators and species composition using multivariate statistical approaches.It was hypothesized that variations in the age of graveyards would give rise to diverse plant communities under the impact of various edaphic and climatic factors.Quantitative ecological techniques were applied to determine various phytosociological attributes.All the data were put in MS Excel for analysis in PCORD and CANOCO softwares for cluster analysis(CA),two-way cluster analysis(TWCA),indicator species analysis and canonical correspondence analysis.CA and TWCA through Sorenson distance measurements identified five major graveyard plant communities:(1)FicusBougainvillea-Chenopodium;(2)Acacia-Datura-Convolvulus;(3)Ziziphus-Vitex-Abutilon;(4)Acacia-Lantana-Salsola;and(5)Melia-Rhazya-Peganum.Species such as Capparis decidua,Herniaria hirsuta,Salvadora oliedes and Populus euphratica were only present inside graveyards rather than outside and advocate the role of graveyards in species conservation.The impact of different environmental and climatic variables plus the age of the graveyards were also assessed for comparison of plant communities and their respective indicator species.The results indicate that higher chlorine concentration,age of graveyards,low soil electrical conductivity,lower anthropogenic activities,higher nitrogen,calcium and magnesium concentrations in the soil,and sandy soils were the strong environmental variables playing a significant role in the formation of graveyard plant communities,their associated indicators and species distribution patterns.These results could further be utilized to evaluate the role of edaphic and climatic factors,indicator species and conservation management practices at a greater scale.展开更多
Panax wangianus （Syn. Panax pseudoginseng） S. C. Sun （Araliaceae） is a critically endangered, medicinal plant of North-East India. The objective of this study was to determine how plant size affects flowering phen...Panax wangianus （Syn. Panax pseudoginseng） S. C. Sun （Araliaceae） is a critically endangered, medicinal plant of North-East India. The objective of this study was to determine how plant size affects flowering phenology and to evaluate the effect of climatic factors on flowering, fruiting and seed production. Data on vegetative and repro- ductive characters were monitored from 2016 individuals of Panax wangianus population in Law Lyngdoh, Smit sacred grove in Nongkrem, Shillong, India. Leaflet area was measured by a planimeter. Size variables of both vegetative and reproductive traits in different age classes were measured. Climatic factors were recorded from 2007 to 2009. Age was recorded by counting the number of bud scale scars on the rhizome. Light intensity and relative humidity were measured using a photometer, LiCor Model LI-189 and thermohygrometer respectively. Different climatic variables are correlated with vegetative and reproductive phenological events. Statistical analysis revealed that a strong positive correlation was observed between the age versus vegetative and reproductive characters, except 1%–2% plants showed neoteny. Morphological variations were observed in natural conditions on the basis of the number of prong and carpellate conditions. Phenological status revealed that most of the individuals of the age class 35–50 years and above 50 years contributed the most to flowering, fruiting and seed production. Age class was significant to predict the size of the plant and its reproductive capacity. Climatic factors such as temperature, precipitation and relative humidity show synergistic effect on both the vegetative and reproductive phases in Panax wangianus in the undisturbed Nongkrem sacred grove. The color of flowers of P. wangianus also varied depending upon the sunlight intensity. Therefore, in the view of conservationand management, the age class of 35–50 years and above 50 years is the most important for population sustainability.展开更多
The aim of this study is to estimate externalities created round a cultural heritage preservation site.A research was conducted concerning the ruins of an ancient‘Sacred Way’(Iera Odos)located in Attica,Greece.The s...The aim of this study is to estimate externalities created round a cultural heritage preservation site.A research was conducted concerning the ruins of an ancient‘Sacred Way’(Iera Odos)located in Attica,Greece.The sample of the research was 200 citizens(interviewees).It is used the CVM(Contingent Valuation Method)and Logit model of the regression analysis.The preservation of cultural heritage is entailing excessive cost(paid by people through taxation)while is a source of additional income for both,the State and the people,due to tourism.Since the evaluation of this good cannot be in market terms,authors apply a modified version of the CVM(Contingent Valuation Method).The findings show there is strong evidence that at the 5%significance level,WTP(against WTA)is a better preferred course of action i.e.,leaving the ruins situation as it is,performing only the necessary remediation,proceeding with radical restoration.All statistical processing of answers,obtained through a properly designed/circulated questionnaire,was carried out by Logit model regression analysis.The model gave significant(at 0.05 levels)dependence of WTPar(Willingness to Participation)on preferred course of action(i.e.,leaving the ruins situation as is,performing only the necessary remediation,proceeding with radical restoration).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
The sacred groves in the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve (PBR) of India were studied to understand the concept of traditional ecological and biodiversity conservation systems. A questionnaire survey was conducted in the s...The sacred groves in the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve (PBR) of India were studied to understand the concept of traditional ecological and biodiversity conservation systems. A questionnaire survey was conducted in the selected villages of the PBR along with the survey of sacred groves. In 10 selected villages of the PBR 7 sacred groves were managed by Mawasi and 16 sacred groves by Gond tribal communities. Different deities were worshipped in the sacred groves and each grove was named after the deity dwelling in the respective sacred grove. A total of 19 such deities were recorded during the survey worshipped by the local people. In study area, various traditional customs associated with sacred groves were in practice. The sacred groves were rich in plant genetic diversity and were composed of many ethnobotanically useful species, including wild edible fruits, medicinal plants, fodder, fuelwood and timber yielding species. Given the importance of conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem attempts should be made to maintain the sanctity of sacred groves.展开更多
Sacred groves are patches of forests preserved for their spiri- tual and religious significance. The practice gained relevance with the spread of agriculture that caused large-scale deforestation affecting bio- divers...Sacred groves are patches of forests preserved for their spiri- tual and religious significance. The practice gained relevance with the spread of agriculture that caused large-scale deforestation affecting bio- diversity and watersheds. Sacred groves may lose their prominence nowadays, but are still relevant in Indian rural landscapes inhabited by traditional communities. The recent rise of interest in this tradition encouraged scientific study that despite its pan-Indian distribution, focused on India＇s northeast, Western Ghats and east coast either for their global/regional importance or unique ecosystems. Most studies focused on flora, mainly angiosperms, and the faunal studies concentrated on vertebrates while lower life fomas were grossly neglected. Studies on ecosystem functioning are few although observations are available. Most studies attributed watershed protection values to sacred groves but hardly highlighted hydrological process or water yield in comparison with other land use types. The grove studies require diversification from a stereo- typed path and must move towards creating credible scientific foundations for conservation. Documentation should continue in unexplored areas but more work is needed on basic ecological functions and ecosystem dynamics to strengthen planning for scientifically sound sacred grove management.展开更多
A total of 141 quadrats were sampled using stratified random sampling to study forest,environment and human interactions along an elevation gradient 1800 to 3665 m at the remote Kailash Sacred Landscape,Nepal.Eight fo...A total of 141 quadrats were sampled using stratified random sampling to study forest,environment and human interactions along an elevation gradient 1800 to 3665 m at the remote Kailash Sacred Landscape,Nepal.Eight forest types were identified,including Laurel-Oak to Rhododendron to Blue pine,comprising 191 species including 60 useful from 166 genera and 87 families.The environmental variables elevation,slope,and temperature were significant(p<0.001)in determining the composition and distribution of forest types.Records of large numbers of useful plants along with diverse forest and vegetation types suggest a strong association between the culture of local villages and nature conservation.Due to changes in climate,socio-culture and land-use,forest degradation is expected to accelerate,thus forcing government and indigenous community forest management measures to acknowledge human,cultural and environmental variables for sustainable forest management.展开更多
文摘This paper will explore the common origins and developments of Judaism,Christianity,and Islam,known as the Abrahamic faiths.Drawing on the references of F.E.Peters and Huston Smith,this paper examines how these traditions are unified by monotheism,reverence for sacred scripture,and ethical principles,yet dives in their historical narratives,interpretations of covenant,and worship practices.Spiritual figures such as Abraham,Moses,Jesus,and Muhammad are analyzed for their roles in shaping theology and guiding communities of faith.The study highlights the Torah,Bible,and Qur’an as sources of authority and identity,while comparing moral teachings and ritual expressions across the traditions.An emphasis is placed on the shared values and theological differences that have shaped both dialogue and conflict.Ultimately,the paper demonstrates how understanding these faiths together deepens insight into their enduring influence on culture,spirituality,and human history.
文摘Sacred forests play a valuable role in the conservation of local biodiversity and provide numerous ecosystem services in Cameroon. The aim of this study was to estimate floristic diversity, stand structures and carbon stocks in the sacred forests of Bandrefam and Batoufam (western Cameroon). The floristic inventory and the stand structures were carried out in 25 m × 25 m plots for individuals with diameters greater than 10 cm;5 m × 5 m for individuals with diameters less than 10 cm. Carbon stocks were estimated using the non-destructive method and allometric equations. The floristic inventory identified 65 species divided into 57 genera and 30 families in the Bandrefam sacred forest and 45 species divided into 42 genera and 27 families in the Batoufam sacred forest. In the Bandrefam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (53.98%), Moraceae (21.69%), Lamiaceae (20.15%). At Batoufam, the most important families are Phyllanthaceae (39.73%), Fabaceae (28.47%), Araliaceae (23.77%). Malacantha alnifolia (55.14%), Vitex grandifolia (18.43%), Bosqueia angolensis (15.06%) were the most important species in Bandrefam. Otherwise, Malacantha alnifolia (28%), Polyscias fulva (22.73%), Psychotria sp. (21.28%) were the most important in Batoufam. The Bandrefam sacred forest has the highest tree density (2669 stems/ha). Total carbon stock is 484.88 ± 2.28 tC/ha at Batoufam and 313.95 ± 0.93 tC/ha at Bandrefam. The economic value varies between 5858.04 ± 27.62 USD/ha in Batoufam sacred forest and 3788.51 ± 11.26 USD/ha in Bandrefam sacred forest. The number of individuals and small-diameter trees has little influence on the carbon stocks in the trees. Medium-diameter trees store the most carbon, and very large-diameter trees, which are very poorly represented, store less carbon. In another way, wood density and the basal areas influence the carbon storage of the trees.
基金the material and logistical support provided by the Environmental Geomatics Laboratory of the Forestry Department of the University of Dschang
文摘Existing knowledge on degraded mountain landscapes does not shed sufficient light on the socio-economic and ecological opportunities essential for successful restoration initiatives.To address this knowledge lacuna,a study was conducted on the Bamboutos Mountains landscape in Cameroon with the main objective being to analyse the opportunities for restoring this landscape in line with local,national and international development goals and to minimise the negative effects of land-use decisions.Following the Restoration Opportunity Assessment Methodology(ROAM)approach,five participatory reflection workshops were organized in the five target clusters of the landscape for data collection.The results of the study led to the development of a restoration map that presents five interventions:grassland management on an area of 4,720 ha currently occupied by shrub savannah;the practice of fruit-based agroforestry on 3,221 ha of agricultural fields;the planting of riparian forests on 451 ha of degraded watercourses;the revegetation and conservation of the Bamboutos Mountains forest reserve,sacred forests and relics of degraded forests on 435 ha of area;and the revegetation of 6 ha of degraded water sources.The carbon stocks vary from 2.66 to 345.15 tC/ha depending on the type of restoration intervention with a total carbon stock of 247,367.45 tC/ha on the 8,834 ha of area to be restored.This presents a very satisfactory economic cost-benefit,because for an investment of USD 5,991,269.84,a gain of USD 100,439,519.13 could be achieved after 20 years,i.e.,an estimated profit of USD 94,448,249.29.These results provide an understanding of the types of restoration interventions possible in this landscape,a solid basis for planning a restoration initiative.The results equally provide guidance on priority areas from a social,economic,and ecological perspective.
文摘1 A rare white bison calf,celebrated by Native American communities since its birth in Yellowstone National Park,has not been seen since June,according to the National Park Service.The calf was born on June 4 in Lamar Valley and was captured on camera by visitors and photographers.Its photos quickly spread online,capturing the hearts of social media users and Native American tribes who consider the animal sacred.
文摘On a summer morning in Boqiang Village,tucked beneath the emerald mountains of Fanshi County,Shanxi Province,the Ultra Trail Mount Wutai 2025 commenced with the sound of the starting pistol-an event that was much more than just a competition.As soon as the colourful smoke bombs lit up the sky,some 2,000 runners from China and abroad set off to reach one of the country’s most sacred Buddhist peaks.Over the past decade,this race has become a fixture on the global running calendar and a symbol of the growing popularity of endurance sports.
文摘While Bronze Age Proto-Sinaic and Proto-Canaanite syllabic inscriptions were found engraved on fragments of pottery and stone,evidence of early alphabetic script was also inscribed in ink onto a massive parchment scroll,known as the Torah.Albeit the contours of those original characters transformed over time,it took the clairvoyant genius of Moses,and later the scribes of Ancient Israel,to configure and adapt ancient semitic prototypes into phonetic letters,producing the greatest literary document in the history of the world,the Bible.This article summarizes the acoustic properties of that alphabet,with further historical considerations.
文摘The purpose of the article is to present several topics in Russian music of the Soviet era(roughly 1920-1990).The time that has passed since the fall of the Iron Curtain allows us to rethink and revise the cultural treasures of seven decades and reassess new research of the last decade,carried out both by people who previously gained a reputation as an authority in Soviet culture,and by scientists who came from this environment and began sharing their vision of the subject after acquiring the skills of a Western scholar.The article is based mainly on the latter research and tries to see its subject as a complete picture,albeit with missing details,so to speak,a postmodern picture that requires the reader to participate in its refinement.The methodological basis of this study is working with published sources through the critical lens of cultural anthropology as it has developed and presently looks.
基金Supported by Key Project of Natural Science of Sichuan Province Office of Education(2003A183)Key Project of Natural Science of Liangshan Prefecture Science Commission in 2004(Liangshan Prefecture Science Bureau[2004]46J)~~
文摘With Mosuo's sacred natural sites of mountainous forest in Yongning-Lugu Lake area as the research subject,by using the method of ecology,the vegetation type in this area was initially identified.The control sample plot of the same vegetation type at similar altitude and in similar soil condition would be selected and compared with the sample plot in sacred natural sites at length,so as to quantitatively analyze the protection of biological diversity in the perspective of ecological system.It showed that under the circumstance of the damage of ecological environment,complete natural vertical pattern was preserved thanks to sacred natural sites of mountainous forest established by reason of traditional religion and culture.The results of research and quantitative analysis showed that compared with the control sample plot of the same vegetation type,sacred natural sites were high in biological diversity and the species composition of plant community in sacred natural sites was closer to that of primitive forest.The result of quantitative analysis also indicated that sacred natural sites played a remarkable role in protecting vegetation and this protective function became more remarkable if the altitude was higher.And human were reminded to pay close attention to the preservation and protection function of sacred natural sites to natural ecological system at high altitude.
文摘Based on the experience of ethnographic filming,this article outlines the dynamic process of the protection and development of Baima Tibetan traditional villages with the help of iconic descriptions of Baima Tibetans’daily lives and sacrificial activities,and explores how Baima Tibetans inherit their culture while adapting to social development with imagery means during rural revitalization,and how the locals integrate sacred space and secular experience in order to construct their own cultural symbols for the sake of embracing the new era.As far as anthropology-ethnographic descriptions of embodiment are concerned,traditional text research has limitations.In comparison,video graphic anthropology has natural advantages.Its advantages not only lie in the means of images,but also lie in the ability to connect the“sense of things”,mind and nature,realizing the interaction between mind and things,and mentality and object.The visual ethnography is an important research method for anthropological research to enter the world of his other.This is also an important way to describe the integration and symbiosis of local subjectivity,local sacred space,and secular experience.
文摘Carbon stock estimation was conducted in tree species of Sem Mukhem sacred forest in district Tehri of Garhwal Himalaya, Uttara- khand, India. This forest is dedicated to Nagraj Devta and is dominated by tree species, including Quercus floribunda, Quercus semecarpifolia and Rhododendron arboreum. The highest values of below ground bio- mass density, total biomass density and total carbon density were （34.81±1.68） Mg·ha^-1, （168.26±9.04） Mg·ha^-1 and （84.13±4.18） Mg·ha^-1 for Pinus wallichiana. Overall values of total biomass density and total carbon density calculated were 1549.704 Mg·ha^-1 and 774.77 Mg·ha^-1 respectively. Total value of growing stock volume density for all species was 732.56 m3·ha^-1 and ranged from （144.97±11.98） m3·ha^-1 for Pinus wallichiana to （7.78±1.78） m3·ha^-1for Benthamidia capitata.
文摘We have quantitatively analyzed the tree species diversity with respect to soil nutrient status in three sites of a sacred forest ecosystem of Niyamgiri hill range, Eastern Ghats, India. Extensive field surveys and sampling were conducted in 3 sites of the hill range： Site 1 Pterocarpus dominated forest （PTF） （19°40＇02.2＇＇ N and 83°21＇23.1＇＇ E）, Site 2 Mangifera dominated forest （MAF） （19°40＇02.8＇＇ N and 83°21＇40.8＇＇ E） and Site 3 Mixed forest （MIF） （19°36＇47.1＂ N and 83°21＇02.7＇＇ E）. A total of 28 families, 42 genera, 46 tree species, and 286 individual trees were recorded on an area of0.6 ha. Tree density varied between 470 and 49o individuals ha and average basal area between 3.16 and l0.04 m2 ha-1. Shannon Index （H＇） ranged from 2.34 to 4.53, Simpson＇s Index ranged from 0.07 to o.09, and equitability Index ranged from 0.7 to 1.34. The number of individuals was highest in the girth at breast height （GBH） class of 50-7o cm. The soil nutrient status of the three forest types was related to tree species diversity. The soil pH value of the three sites reflected the slightly acidic nature of the area. Species diversity was positively correlated with organic carbon and phosphorus and negatively with nitrogen, EC and pH. The results of the current study may be helpful to further develop a conservation planfor tree species in tropical sacred forest ecosystems.
基金funded by Department of Science and Technology(DST),New Delhi India
文摘Aboveground biomass and carbon stock in the largest sacred grove of Manipur was estimated for trees with diameter [10 cm at 1.37 m height.The aboveground biomass,carbon stock,tree density and basal area of the sacred grove ranged from 962.94 to 1130.79 Mg ha;,481.47 to 565.40 Mg ha;C,1240 to 1320 stem ha;and79.43 to 90.64 m;ha;,respectively.Trees in diameter class of 30–40 cm contributed the highest proportion of aboveground biomass（22.50–33.73%）.The aboveground biomass and carbon stock in research area were higher than reported for many tropical and temperate forests,suggesting a role of spiritual forest conservation for carbon sink management.
基金funded by Ministry of Environment,Forest and Climate Change,Govt. of India (No.14/25/2011-ERS/RE)
文摘In Meghalaya, northeast India, the local people have the tradition of managing forest resources since early ages. The management practice varies and there are forests with high degree of protection, where no extraction(sacred forests) is allowed. There are also forests with moderate-level of protection and-extraction(reserved forests) as well as forests with low level of protection and open extraction(village forests). The present study was conducted to understand the impact of this traditional management system on the level of human disturbance, and on community composition and structure of the forests in Khasi hills of Meghalaya. The result revealed that disturbance index was low, whereas species richness, density and basal cover were significantly high in forests with high degree of protection(sacred forest) than those with low protection(reserved and village forest). Majority of endemic and threatened plant species were restricted to sacred forests as compared to the other forest types. Though these practices have ensured the sustainable use of forest resources by the local people but due to increased human-pressure and-disturbances, more effective conservation strategies need to be undertaken. Therefore, providing alternatives for fuelwood to local people, environmental education, encouraging afforestation and developmental activities involving local communities are recommended.
基金This study is supported by University Research Fund(URF)of Quaid-i-Azam University Islamabad.
文摘Graveyards or sacred groves are often places of natural vegetation protected by spiritual believers because of their sacred beliefs and indigenous culture.A study of graveyards was conducted to determine their role in species conservation,community formation,and associated indicators and species composition using multivariate statistical approaches.It was hypothesized that variations in the age of graveyards would give rise to diverse plant communities under the impact of various edaphic and climatic factors.Quantitative ecological techniques were applied to determine various phytosociological attributes.All the data were put in MS Excel for analysis in PCORD and CANOCO softwares for cluster analysis(CA),two-way cluster analysis(TWCA),indicator species analysis and canonical correspondence analysis.CA and TWCA through Sorenson distance measurements identified five major graveyard plant communities:(1)FicusBougainvillea-Chenopodium;(2)Acacia-Datura-Convolvulus;(3)Ziziphus-Vitex-Abutilon;(4)Acacia-Lantana-Salsola;and(5)Melia-Rhazya-Peganum.Species such as Capparis decidua,Herniaria hirsuta,Salvadora oliedes and Populus euphratica were only present inside graveyards rather than outside and advocate the role of graveyards in species conservation.The impact of different environmental and climatic variables plus the age of the graveyards were also assessed for comparison of plant communities and their respective indicator species.The results indicate that higher chlorine concentration,age of graveyards,low soil electrical conductivity,lower anthropogenic activities,higher nitrogen,calcium and magnesium concentrations in the soil,and sandy soils were the strong environmental variables playing a significant role in the formation of graveyard plant communities,their associated indicators and species distribution patterns.These results could further be utilized to evaluate the role of edaphic and climatic factors,indicator species and conservation management practices at a greater scale.
文摘Panax wangianus （Syn. Panax pseudoginseng） S. C. Sun （Araliaceae） is a critically endangered, medicinal plant of North-East India. The objective of this study was to determine how plant size affects flowering phenology and to evaluate the effect of climatic factors on flowering, fruiting and seed production. Data on vegetative and repro- ductive characters were monitored from 2016 individuals of Panax wangianus population in Law Lyngdoh, Smit sacred grove in Nongkrem, Shillong, India. Leaflet area was measured by a planimeter. Size variables of both vegetative and reproductive traits in different age classes were measured. Climatic factors were recorded from 2007 to 2009. Age was recorded by counting the number of bud scale scars on the rhizome. Light intensity and relative humidity were measured using a photometer, LiCor Model LI-189 and thermohygrometer respectively. Different climatic variables are correlated with vegetative and reproductive phenological events. Statistical analysis revealed that a strong positive correlation was observed between the age versus vegetative and reproductive characters, except 1%–2% plants showed neoteny. Morphological variations were observed in natural conditions on the basis of the number of prong and carpellate conditions. Phenological status revealed that most of the individuals of the age class 35–50 years and above 50 years contributed the most to flowering, fruiting and seed production. Age class was significant to predict the size of the plant and its reproductive capacity. Climatic factors such as temperature, precipitation and relative humidity show synergistic effect on both the vegetative and reproductive phases in Panax wangianus in the undisturbed Nongkrem sacred grove. The color of flowers of P. wangianus also varied depending upon the sunlight intensity. Therefore, in the view of conservationand management, the age class of 35–50 years and above 50 years is the most important for population sustainability.
文摘The aim of this study is to estimate externalities created round a cultural heritage preservation site.A research was conducted concerning the ruins of an ancient‘Sacred Way’(Iera Odos)located in Attica,Greece.The sample of the research was 200 citizens(interviewees).It is used the CVM(Contingent Valuation Method)and Logit model of the regression analysis.The preservation of cultural heritage is entailing excessive cost(paid by people through taxation)while is a source of additional income for both,the State and the people,due to tourism.Since the evaluation of this good cannot be in market terms,authors apply a modified version of the CVM(Contingent Valuation Method).The findings show there is strong evidence that at the 5%significance level,WTP(against WTA)is a better preferred course of action i.e.,leaving the ruins situation as it is,performing only the necessary remediation,proceeding with radical restoration.All statistical processing of answers,obtained through a properly designed/circulated questionnaire,was carried out by Logit model regression analysis.The model gave significant(at 0.05 levels)dependence of WTPar(Willingness to Participation)on preferred course of action(i.e.,leaving the ruins situation as is,performing only the necessary remediation,proceeding with radical restoration).
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.
文摘The sacred groves in the Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve (PBR) of India were studied to understand the concept of traditional ecological and biodiversity conservation systems. A questionnaire survey was conducted in the selected villages of the PBR along with the survey of sacred groves. In 10 selected villages of the PBR 7 sacred groves were managed by Mawasi and 16 sacred groves by Gond tribal communities. Different deities were worshipped in the sacred groves and each grove was named after the deity dwelling in the respective sacred grove. A total of 19 such deities were recorded during the survey worshipped by the local people. In study area, various traditional customs associated with sacred groves were in practice. The sacred groves were rich in plant genetic diversity and were composed of many ethnobotanically useful species, including wild edible fruits, medicinal plants, fodder, fuelwood and timber yielding species. Given the importance of conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem attempts should be made to maintain the sanctity of sacred groves.
基金the funding from Indian Institute of Science for pursuing the research work
文摘Sacred groves are patches of forests preserved for their spiri- tual and religious significance. The practice gained relevance with the spread of agriculture that caused large-scale deforestation affecting bio- diversity and watersheds. Sacred groves may lose their prominence nowadays, but are still relevant in Indian rural landscapes inhabited by traditional communities. The recent rise of interest in this tradition encouraged scientific study that despite its pan-Indian distribution, focused on India＇s northeast, Western Ghats and east coast either for their global/regional importance or unique ecosystems. Most studies focused on flora, mainly angiosperms, and the faunal studies concentrated on vertebrates while lower life fomas were grossly neglected. Studies on ecosystem functioning are few although observations are available. Most studies attributed watershed protection values to sacred groves but hardly highlighted hydrological process or water yield in comparison with other land use types. The grove studies require diversification from a stereo- typed path and must move towards creating credible scientific foundations for conservation. Documentation should continue in unexplored areas but more work is needed on basic ecological functions and ecosystem dynamics to strengthen planning for scientifically sound sacred grove management.
基金The project was partially funded by Rufford Foundation,UK(Grant#21198-2,25296-B)Florida Atlantic University,USA(GT-001801).
文摘A total of 141 quadrats were sampled using stratified random sampling to study forest,environment and human interactions along an elevation gradient 1800 to 3665 m at the remote Kailash Sacred Landscape,Nepal.Eight forest types were identified,including Laurel-Oak to Rhododendron to Blue pine,comprising 191 species including 60 useful from 166 genera and 87 families.The environmental variables elevation,slope,and temperature were significant(p<0.001)in determining the composition and distribution of forest types.Records of large numbers of useful plants along with diverse forest and vegetation types suggest a strong association between the culture of local villages and nature conservation.Due to changes in climate,socio-culture and land-use,forest degradation is expected to accelerate,thus forcing government and indigenous community forest management measures to acknowledge human,cultural and environmental variables for sustainable forest management.
