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Increasing energy production through renewable sources is a challenge for islands. This paper investigates the potential of hydropower as a renewable energy source for islands in the Macaronesia region, which includes the Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands, and Cape Verde. Ecological transition towards renewable energy sources is crucial for these islands due to their current dependence on imported fossil fuels and their remoteness. The methodology used in this paper combines a SWOT analysis with a review of relevant literature. The SWOT analysis evaluates the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats associated with hydropower development on each island. The results show that each island has unique characteristics that influence its hydropower potential. The Azores has existing mini-hydropower plants and opportunities for pumped storage systems due to its rainfall and volcanic features. Madeira also utilizes hydropower, including the world's first underground pumped storage plant (UPHS) in Socorridos. However, limitations exist due to the mountainous terrain and competition for water resources. The Canary Islands showcase the success story of El Hierro Island, which significantly increased renewable energy penetration through a wind farm and pumped storage hydropower system. The topography and lack of rainfall on Cape Verde make the development of hydropower a significant challenge and, as a result, the focus has shifted to wind power. The study concludes that hydropower can play a significant role in the ecological transition of these islands. However, careful planning and consideration of environmental factors are necessary to maximize the benefits and minimize the potential drawbacks. The paper emphasizes the importance of islandspecific assessments and exploring opportunities for pumped storage systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zircon from four plutons of peralkaline granites and quartz-bearing syenites, differing in geotectonic positions, petrological and mineralogical compositions, and contents of volatile and trace elements, was studied using SEM, CL, and EPMA with the intention to define typical textural and chemical features of zircon from peralkaline rocks. In strongly peralkaline Na-pyroxene-bearing rocks represented by the Khan Bogd and Khalzan Buregte plutons (Mongolia), the primary zircon is scarce or missing. Most zircon grains are secondary, originating in hydrothermal stage from primary Zr silicates. They often form globular or radial aggregates. Chemical compositions of zircon in these rocks typically show high contents of Y, moderate contents of REE (thus high Y/Yb values) together with low contents of U and Th and low analytical totals. In mildly peralkaline mica-bearing rocks represented by Ivigtut stock (Groenland) and Madeira pluton (Brazil), the exclusive primary Zr mineral is zircon, mostly of orthomagmatic origin. Its analytical totals approach 100 wt%, enrichment in HREE, resulting in low Y/Yb values, is typical. Zircon populations from two types of peralkaline granitoids can be distinguished from each other and from zircon from S-type granites based on combination of the Zr/Hf, Y/Yb, and U/Th values, or on the Y-Hf-P ternary diagram. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The history of science in islands is not a well worked out discipline. This article offers the first thorough historical account of astronomical activities at Madeira, from the discovery of the uninhabited island in the fifteenth century (600 years ago), through its establishment as an astronomical observatory (300 years ago) and up to the recent past. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Evolutionary studies of oceanic island endemics are usually focused on lineages that have experienced in situ radiation, while those that speciated once on the island or archipelago but have not further diversified (single‐species endemics) remain understudied. The Macaronesian archipelagos, in the Atlantic Ocean, are home to significant numbers of single‐species endemics. The genus Hedera L. (12 species) includes three single‐species endemics from three Macaronesian archipelagos with putatively independent origins. Here, we tested the role of phylogenetic niche conservatism in their evolution. To that end, we (1) reconstructed the spatio‐temporal origin of Macaronesian ivies using phylogenomics, and (2) assessed the role of climatic niche during their colonization and speciation. Location: Azores, Canary Islands, Madeira, western Mediterranean. Taxon: Hedera spp. Methods: We used 166 samples representing all Hedera species to generate genotyping‐by‐sequencing (GBS) libraries and performed time‐calibrated phylogenomic and biogeographic analyses. Climatic preferences and climatic niche evolution were assessed using a geo‐referenced database of the western ivy species (2,297 records). Results: Independent and asynchronous colonization and speciation were estimated for the three Macaronesian ivies, resulting in different degrees of phylogenetic and climatic niche differentiation: H. canariensis displayed an early divergence (7.5–12 Ma) and high phylogenetic and niche isolation; H. azorica had intermediate phylogenetic isolation and niche divergence from its closest relative H. helix (4.4–6.8 Ma) and H. maderensis was embedded within the climatically similar H. iberica (2.8–4.6 Ma). A strong phylogenetic signal was suggested for climatic niche in the western clade of Hedera, where the three Macaronesian ivies are placed. Main Conclusions: The three Macaronesian ivies represent the evolutionary stages leading to the emergence of single‐species island endemics. Climatic niche conservatism appears to be involved in the evolution of single‐species endemics, first by facilitating island colonization, and then by limiting in situ diversification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a detailed analysis of the local housing strategies (ELH) in the Municipality of Machico, Madeira, examining the diagnosis of housing needs, proposed solutions, and projected goals for the future. In addition to addressing the rehabilitation of private and public housing and the increase in housing supply, the study also explores how ELH relate to the new generation of housing policies and the public support program for promoting housing solutions for vulnerable people. It is important to note that the implementation of ELH in Machico also has a positive impact on the local landscape and climate resilience, promoting the conservation of important forest areas for the production and management of natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using integrative taxonomy, we describe Macrobiotus kosmali sp. nov. from Ribeira Brava, Madeira (Portugal). Based on morphological and morphometric data from both phase contrast light microscopy (PCM), as well as, from scanning electron microscopy (SEM), description of the new species is provided. Additionally, four DNA markers, three nuclear (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, ITS-2) and one mitochondrial (COI) were used to calculate the p-distances between Macrobiotus kosmali sp. nov. and other species of the genus Macrobiotus. The uncorrected genetic distances indicated that the new species is the most similar to its four congeners, namely Mac. cf. recens and morphologically, new species is most similar to Mac. dariae, Mac. glebkai, Mac. noemiae, Mac. recens, Mac. rybaki and Mac. scoticus, but differs from them mainly in details of its egg chorion and egg processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Judgment 484/2022 of the Constitutional Court of Portugal declared the unconstitutionality of certain articles of Law No. 1/2021, which transferred powers to the autonomous regions of Azores and Madeira in the Exclusive Economic Zone and the Continental Shelf. The Court argued that these powers belong to the State and not to the autonomous regions, and that the latter cannot affect the integrity of national sovereignty. The President of the Republic issued a political veto, but it was overridden by the majority of the Members of Parliament. There was controversy among the judges of the Court, with some arguing that the issue was the attribution of power to the Autonomous Regions over the maritime public domain. [Extracted from the article]

The path followed by species in the colonization of remote oceanic islands ultimately depends on their phylogenetic constraints and ecological responses. In this study, we aim to evaluate the relative role of geographical and ecological forces in the origin and evolution of the Madeiran ivy (Hedera maderensis), a single-species endemic belonging to the western polyploid clade of Hedera. To determine the phylogenetic placement of H. maderensis within the western polyploid clade, we analyzed 40 populations (92 individuals) using genotyping-by-sequencing and including Hedera helix as outgroup. Climatic niche differences among the study species were evaluated using a database with 867 records representing the entire species ranges. To test species responses to climate, 13 vegetative and reproductive functional traits were examined for 70 populations (335 individuals). Phylogenomic results revealed a nested pattern with H. maderensis embedded within the south-western Iberian H. iberica. Gradual niche differentiation from the coldest and most continental populations of H. iberica to the warm and stable coastal population sister to H. maderensis parallels the geographical pattern observed in the phylogeny. Similarity in functional traits is observed for H. maderensis and H. iberica. The two species show leaves with higher specific leaf area (SLA), lower leaf dry matter content (LDMC) and thickness and fruits with lower pulp fraction than the other western polyploid species H. hibernica. Acquisition of a Macaronesian climatic niche and the associated functional syndrome in mainland European ivies (leaves with high SLA, and low LDMC and thickness, and fruits with less pulp content) was a key step in the colonization of Madeira by the H. iberica/H. maderensis lineage, which points to climatic pre-adaptation as key in the success of island colonization (dispersal and establishment). Once in Madeira, budding speciation was driven by geographical isolation, while ecological processes are regarded as secondary forces with a putative impact in the lack of further in situ diversification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new exotic species of ants are recorded for the Macaronesian island of Madeira: Cardiocondyla obscurior Wheeler, 1929, Lepisiota capensis (Mayr, 1862) and Pheidole navigans Forel, 1901. The well-known invasive Pheidole megacephala is now rare on Madeira, possibly because of competition with P. navigans. We did not come across the Argentine ant - Linepithema humile, which was once very common in the Funchal area. Despite extensive searching, the presumed endemic Temnothorax wollastoni (Donisthorpe, 1940) remains unknown other than from the type material. Presence, abundance and extinction of invasive and exotic ants are dynamic processes and we stress the importance of continuous sampling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Laurisilva of Madeira is an important natural resource as well as a location for nature-based tourism and recreational activities. Despite UNESCO's concerns and recommendations for assessing tourism capacity, the local population is perceived as overusing this resource; yet precisely how many tourists visit its most popular areas remains unknown. Tourism carrying capacity (TCC) was assessed on two Rabaçal trails using a specific formulation relating physical aspects to environmental correction factors. Tourism carrying capacity was found to be below theoretical limits, and trail access was not restricted despite being a major concern in natural resource management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive annotated checklist of the ladybeetle species of Portugal, including the Azores and Madeira archipelagos, is presented. The Coccinellidae fauna comprises a total of 101 species: 83 from the Mainland, 39 from Madeira, and 32 from the Azores. The listed species are distributed among 2 subfamilies and 13 tribes: within the subfamily Microweiseinae, Madeirodulini (1 species), Serangiini (2 species), and within the subfamily Coccinellinae, Azyini (1 species), Chilocorini (4 species), Coccidulini (7 species), Coccinellini (30 species), Epilachnini (4 species), Hyperaspidini (7 species), Noviini (2 species), Platynaspini (1 species), Scymnini (37 species), Stethorini (3 species), and Sticholotidini (2 species). The Portuguese fauna comprises 10 exotic species: 5 present in the Mainland, 7 in Madeira, and 6 in the Azores. Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773) from Madeira, Propylea quatuordecimpunctata (Linnaeus, 1758) from the Azores, Delphastus catalinae (Horn, 1895) from the Azores and Madeira, Nephus (Geminosipho) reunioni (Fürsch, 1974) and Nephus (Nephus) voeltzkowi Weise, 1910 from Madeira and Microserangium sp. from the Mainland, are reported for the first time. Some species are considered doubtful records, as explained in the text. These results were obtained by compiling information on the available literature regarding ladybeetle species on the Portuguese mainland and insular territories, and original data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Populations of Carex sect. Rhynchocystis (Cyperaceae) from the Macaronesian archipelagos (Azores and Madeira) have traditionally been treated either as a variety of the widely distributed Western Palearctic C. pendula, or directly synonymized under it. However, recent phylogenetic studies have shown that Azorean populations of C. pendula display a certain degree of differentiation from mainland plants, while the phylogenetic relationships of Madeiran populations remain unclear. Here we perform an integrated systematic study focused on the Macaronesian populations of Carex sect. Rhynchocystis to elucidate their phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic status. We reconstructed a molecular phylogeny based on five DNA regions and conducted a multivariate morphological analysis. Divergence time estimates show that the Macaronesian populations can be traced back to a Plio-Pleistocene origin. Our results suggest that these island populations of C. pendula are better treated as two distinct species within Carex sect. Rhynchocystis (i.e. C. leviosa from the Azores and C. sequeirae from Madeira). We provide morphological characters to differentiate the new species from C. pendula s. s., detailed descriptions of the three taxa, a revised key for the entire section, as well as detailed analytical drawings of the two newly described species. We also perform a critical evaluation of the taxonomic diversity of Carex in the Azores and Madeira. Finally, we informally assessed the conservation status of the new species at a global scale under IUCN categories and criteria, resulting in the proposal of the categories Least Concern for C. leviosa and Critically Endangered for C. sequeirae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the serial transformation and resignification of a small islet off the coast of Madeira over the last 250 years. The first phase saw the Ilhéu do Diego modified into a fort (Forte de São José), linked to the mainland, and the second saw the fort incorporated into the seawall that forms the southern edge of the port of Funchal. The history of the fort area subsequently provided the pretext for its assertion as an independent micronation performed in various ways in the period 2007-2017 by a Madeiran resident, Renato Barros, who had become disenchanted with the local government over a disputed development application. The article identifies that history and residual place identities enabled the fort site to be imagined as the Principado do Ilhéu da Pontinha by Barros, in the face of counter-imaginations and interventions by local authorities. and that Barros constructed an entitativity for his claimed principality through the development of symbols, rhetoric and performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Cambodia, potato is imported. Currently, potato has the fourth largest production in the world cultivated in many countries even in semi-arid and tropical countries. Numerous new and improved varieties were developed to sustain and maintain production systems. Thus, performance evaluation of these varieties in Cambodia condition is important to improve potato production in the country. The experiment was conducted from December 2016 to March 2017 by testing 8 different imported varieties (Tornado, Corodana, Georgina, Madeira, Jelly, Julkinka, Red fantasy and Sorentina) under upland climate of Cambodia. The result showed that all varieties showed similar performance in terms of growth, but different in yield components and yield. Tornado variety was most adapted and productive varieties with an average yield of 23ton ha-1 followed by Madeira (19 ton ha-1) while Red fantasy had the lowest production among the tested varieties under upland environment in Cambodia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two endemic genera of large tettigoniids are found in the Canary Islands and Madeira, which are morphologically similar to the genus Tettigonia. In this study, the karyotypes of representatives of the Glyphonotini genera Calliphona and Psalmatophanes are described for the fi rst time. Comparison of their chromosomes with that of members of Tettigoniini genus Tettigonia revealed that all of the species studied have the same karyotype (2n = 29 with sex determination system X0 in the male), which differs from the ancestral tettigoniid karyotype by one Robertsonian translocation. These results support not only the morphological and molecular genetic evidence but also the hypothesis of a close relationship between Tettigonia and the endemics Calliphona and Psalmatophanes. Cytogenetic data of Glyphonotini strongly indicate that the taxonomy of thes lineage needs to be re-evaluated in which evidence from multiple sources could help resolve the taxonomic problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey of fish and seafood consumption habits was carried out in Madeira archipelago, in the Eastern Atlantic. A total of 465 valid questionnaires were obtained from all municipalities of Madeira and Porto Santo islands. Cod, an imported product, but a traditional Portuguese staple food, was the most frequently consumed species, surpassing locally caught species such as tunas and scabbardfish. In a GLM analysis, taste emerged as the most important factor conditioning fish consumption frequency, followed by fishing activity. The survey uncovered high participation in subsistence fishing and informal fish acquisition outside the commercial circuit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The endemic Madeiran speckled wood butterfly (Pararge xiphia) was once abundant and widely distributed on the island of Madeira. Declining populations and a range contraction have coincided with the colonisation of Madeira by the speckled wood (Pararge aegeria). The colonist has expanded its range and increased in abundance, whereas the opposite is true for P. xiphia, where a decline in occurrence and abundance resulted in its current endangered designation. During 3 weeks in July and August of 2018, we assessed the relative abundance, distribution and habitat preferences of the Pararge species on Madeira on ten transects, at a range of locations and altitudes, recording all individuals of both species. In addition, we scored percentage cover of several habitat variables per 5-min periods of recording on each transect. Our findings support an ongoing decline in relative abundance of P. xiphia, which accounted for 25% of Pararge individuals in 2018 compared with historical date from 1986, when P. xiphia represented 78% of the Pararge population. The endemic species was associated with the native laurel forest and P. aegeria with non-native planted forests and agriculture. In addition, we found evidence for an altitudinal range-shift 'uphill' which was particularly evident in P. aegeria. Causal reasons for the decline of P. xiphia are difficult to pinpoint; however, we surmise that one or more, or a combination of factors ranging from interspecific competition, habitat loss and disturbance resulting from recent environmental events and parasitism may be accountable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the economic relevance of cruise tourism has increased considerably. However, there are still many doubts regarding the real economic value of this industry in a port of call. This paper presents a methodology to estimate the total expenditures carried out in a port of call. The port of Funchal on the island of Madeira was used as a case study, given the great relevance of the cruise tourism industry to this port of call. A combination of several methods, and of secondary and primary data, was used to assess the total expenses of the cruise passengers, crew members, and cruise lines. Results reveal that, although cruise tourism has an important role in the economic development of the island of Madeira nowadays, several strategies should be adopted to increase this relevance. Therefore, the paper ends with some implications for increasing the direct economic value generated by cruise tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Abundance of skipjack parasites in the Eastern Atlantic presented seasonal patterns. • Parasites indicate 2 waves of skipjack migration to NE Atlantic from different areas. • Results point to a mixing of skipjack populations from both sides of the Atlantic. A sample of 128 skipjack tuna Katsuwonus pelamis from Madeira archipelago was the subject of a parasitological analysis, in order to identify seasonal patterns of parasite infection which can provide information regarding the migratory patterns of skipjack tuna in the Eastern Atlantic. A total of 24 parasite taxa were detected. The nematode Oncophora melanocephala (Nematoda: Camallanidae) was identified as a first record for the genus Katsuwonus and several species were detected for the first time in the Eastern Atlantic, including the didymozoid trematode Pozdnyakovia gibsoni (Trematoda: Didymozoidae), originally described in skipjack tuna from Brazil. Generalized Linear Modelling (GLM) analysis revealed season and host fork length as the main predictors of parasite abundance, uncovering seasonal patterns of infection that indicate that migration to waters around Madeira occurs in at least two separate stages, and suggests a mixing of skipjack tuna sub-populations from both sides of the Atlantic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new species of Diptera (Sphaeroceridae: Limosininae) from the Madeira Island (Portugal), viz. Spelobia polymorpha sp. nov., Pullimosina (Pullimosina) kesoni sp. nov., and P. (P.) dorae sp. nov. are described (both sexes), illustrated and their relationships, biology and distribution discussed. All these species are terricolous inhabitants of the leaf-litter stratum of the original Madeiran laurel forests (Laurisilva) and because of their poor flying ability they are considered endemic to Madeira. None of these species have relatives among endemic species of Sphaeroceridae known from other Macaronesian archipelagos inasmuch as the endemic species of Canary Islands and Azores belong to different genera of Limosininae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazilian mechanical wood processing companies present obstacles that hamper their development and increase their competitiveness. One is the lack and lack of knowledge of strategies and procedures related to quality. There are few incentives for quality control of products from mechanical processing in Brazil, the main one being the National Wood Quality Program (PNQM), which aims to control and map the process as well as the quality of the final product. The guidelines of the PNQM are in line with international standards, with certification being a gateway for companies seeking entry into this market. In view of this, this work proposes to evaluate the production process and the quality of the product of a small-sized plywood company located in the Contestado Region, northern Santa Catarina State. For this the data collection included observation, visits to the industry and consultation with the technical responsible for the production. The mapping of the production process was carried out, as well as the survey of the conformities the guidelines that the PNQM for the production process and quality of the final product. The company's production process is 52% in accordance with the PNQM guidelines. The panels produced meet the requirements of the mechanical properties of the PNQM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background and Aims: The history of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Verdelho has been studied, however, its geographic origin remains unknown. Although not widespread in mainland Portugal, Verdelho has gained a reputation as a Madeira wine, which has led most authors to attribute its origin to the Madeira Islands. The objective of this work was to determine the origin of Verdelho. Methods and Results: An integrated strategy was followed, combining the molecular analysis of 28 nuclear and three chloroplast DNA microsatellites with an historical literature search. Historical records of the presence of Verdelho in the Azores Islands were found and these preceded those of the Madeira Islands by about 200 years. Moreover, the genetic analysis supports Verdelho as the progenitor of the Azores cultivars, Arinto dos Açores and Terrantez do Pico, and as the progeny of cv. Savagnin. Conclusions: Verdelho is a key cultivar in the Azorean genetic diversity pool, sharing first‐degree relationships with the two most important autochthonous grape cultivars, and reinforcing the historical data of its ancestry in the region. Significance of the Study: The results presented here, both historical and genetic, shed new light on the origin of Verdelho, and suggest that the Azores Islands is the site where this cultivar was likely to have originated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The Regional Government of Madeira has developed a re-qualification plan for the tourism sector to guide implementation of the recently launched tourism strategy for the destination.Design/methodology/approach The plan identifies the areas for intervention and the respective measures and actions to implement.Findings Human relations, resource management and training are among the main components that contribute to the success of a tourism value chain. It is also true that innovation and modernization in all aspects of energy efficiency, the digital economy, the environment and internationalization, should be a priority.Originality/value Any experience that stands because it is authentic is likely to attract tourists and affirm the destination. The implication is that it is essential that destinations know how to assert its uniqueness locally, via a strategy for innovation and creativity, without losing sight of its history and its essence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beach sand can harbour pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms, as well as faecal indicator bacteria that influence directly the bathing water quality. Pathogenic and opportunistic microorganisms often raise concern of exposure during beach related recreational activities. In this work, three different types of sandy beaches (natural basaltic, natural calcareous and artificial calcareous) of the Archipelago of Madeira (Portugal) were sampled for bacterial and fungal contaminants and grain size distribution, during four years (2010 − 2013). Following an extreme weather event in 2010, the faecal indicator bacteria levels spiked, returning to base levels shortly thereafter. The same phenomenon occurred with fungi, where potentially pathogenic fungi were the dominant group. Yeast-like fungi and dermatophytes were, however, mainly associated to months of higher usage by recreational users. Statistical analysis showed higher contamination of sediment in artificial beaches compared to natural beaches and granulometry and chemical composition of sand did not influence in the microbial loads. Instead, bather density and the influence of coastal protection structures needed to maintain the volume of artificial beach sand regarding the removal potential of wave induced currents are obvious influencing factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to introduce Madeira’s new tourism strategy and demonstrate how it will lead the region to a new paradigm focused on a culture of service.Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on an analysis of Madeira’s strategic tourism and marketing plan and official regional, national and international information sources.Findings Madeira’s new tourism strategy is based on the reference tripod “Mountain, Sea and Culture”. The new tourism paradigm, it is focused on quality rather than on quantity and more committed on upgrading the product and its offer; is more aligned with environmental, energy and sustainable development concerns for the destination; and is more active, in a direct association between tourism, health and sports.Originality/value This paper presents the perspective and experience of Madeira’s regional government in the management of tourism developmental strategies and shares the solutions implemented in securing and advancing its position as the Best Island Destination in Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work uses for the first time scatterometer wind fields to force a wave model and compares the accuracy of the resulting wave conditions with the ones obtained when using two different sources of hindcast wind fields forcing the same wave spectral model in the Atlantic Ocean. For this purpose, a 5-year hindcast (2010–2014) is performed with the wave spectral model SWAN for the Madeira and Azores archipelagos. The model uses as input the bathymetry from GEBCO, the wave boundary conditions from the WAVEWATCH III wave model provided by Ifremer and winds from the ERA-Interim and ERA5 databases, and remotely sensed winds from scatterometers. A quantitative analysis of the results is performed, and the numerical results are validated against altimeter data and buoy measurements. Globally, ERA-Interim, ERA5 and scatterometer wind data provided similar accuracy of the generated wave fields, as expressed in the error statistics, which are very close to each other, but in the case of extreme events, the scatterometer data reveals more intense winds and consequently lead to sea states with higher significant wave height. This is more visible in the Azores area than in Madeira. The results demonstrate that, in general, the significant wave height is well reproduced by SWAN. • The differences in the accuracy of wave conditions predicted when using three different sources of wind fields are compared. • A 5-year hindcast (2010–2014) is performed with the wave spectral model SWAN for Madeira and Azores. • An analysis of the results is performed and the results are validated against satellite data and buoy measurements. • For extreme events, the satellite data reveals more intense winds and consequently lead to sea states with higher Hs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study offers a brief overview of the historical development of fisheries in Madeira since 1938. Changes in food web structure in the waters around Madeira archipelago were evaluated using the mean trophic level of landings (TL m ) coupled with the Fishing-in-Balance (FiB) index for the period 1979–2014. These indices were also calculated for the taxonomically aggregated data since 1938 in order to provide a rough assessment of the trophic changes and fisheries expansion in the region. The trophic level of landings has been increasing since 1938, but increased more steeply in the transition from the 1980s to the 1990s, remaining relatively stable at a high level since then. Likewise, the FiB index also increased steeply during the same time period, indicating an expansion of the fishery. Due to its oceanic and oligotrophic environment, fisheries in Madeira have become increasingly dependent on a very small number of high trophic level, migratory species, a situation which is ecologically unsustainable. A more balanced exploitation pattern, focused on a better utilization of locally available small pelagic fish, would increase sustainability of fisheries in the region, but is at present conditioned by economic constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomy and morphology of Mercuria species of the Mediterranean region and Madeira were examined. Four new species of Mercuria, M. rolani n. sp., M. tingitana n. sp., M. bakeri n. sp. and M. targuasensis n. sp., are described based on conchological and anatomical evidence. An identification key and a distribution map of Mercuria of the Mediterranean region and Madeira are also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2015 Madeira regional elections, held on 29 March, saw the re-election of the Social Democratic Party (PSD/M), for the twelfth regional government. This was despite the incumbent party's vote share falling to 44.36%. For almost 40 years of regional elections in Madeira, the PSD/M has won consecutive absolute majorities without once losing power. The result of the 2015 election reinforced the tendency over the last 40 years of politics in Madeira: the emergence of a viable electoral challenger to the ruling party continues to be unlikely and the incumbent continues to mobilize the regional electorate and win the electoral contest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic pressures such as the introduction of non-indigenous species (NIS) have impacted global biodiversity and ecosystems. Most marine species spreading outside their natural biogeographical limits are promoted and facilitated by maritime traffic through ballast water and hull biofouling. Propagule pressure plays a primary role in invasion success mixed with environmental conditions of the arrival port. Moreover, with the current ocean sprawl, new substrates are offered for potential NIS recruits. Here, differences in the fouling assemblages thriving inside three different ports/marinas facilities in Madeira Island were assessed for comparison. The locations showed significant differences concerning assemblage structure. Most NIS were detected in plastic floating pontoons. Funchal harbour receives most of the marine traffic in Madeira, acting as the main hub for primary NIS introductions, being recreational boating involved in NIS secondary transfers. Our results highlight the need for future management actions in island ecosystems, particularly monitoring and sampling of recreational boating. • Three studied docking infrastructures showed differences in Non-Indigenous Species (NIS) • NIS differences were due to different propagule pressures and the presence of artificial structures • Funchal is the main hub for primary NIS introductions by maritime traffic in Madeira • Recreational boating is the main vector for the secondary spread of NIS within Madeira • Higher maritime traffic from nearby (similar environmental characteristics) is accountable for most NIS introductions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the degree of persistence in annual Nordic tourist arrivals on the island of Madeira by using data disaggregated by tourism-source countries. For this purpose, the paper adopts methodologies based on the concept of fractional integration. The stability of the fractional differencing parameter across the sample period is also analysed and a brief forecasting exercise is also conducted. The result indicates that the series are highly persistent and only Sweden presents a small degree of mean reverting behaviour. Managerial implications of the main findings are also discussed in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Esta ley tuvo como iniciativa una propuesta de la “Región Autónoma de los Azores”, al abrigo del artículo 167º 1 de la Constitución Portuguesa, que permite a las Assembleias Legislativas (o Parlamentos) de las dos únicas regiones portuguesas con autonomía legislativa (Azores y Madeira) presentar propuestas de ley en el Parlamento nacional. Tras un largo y controvertido procedimiento de aprobación en el referido Parlamento – en que diputados de diferentes grupos parlamentares votaron contra o se abstuvieron por considerar inconstitucional algunos preceptos de la Propuesta de ley – la misma fue vetada, en agosto del año pasado, por el Presidente de la República (PR), y – aunque no la envió al Tribunal Constitucional, como permiten los artículos 134ºg e 278º 3 de la Constitución Portuguesa – pidió a los diputados una revisión de la propuesta en que quedase claro que se respetaba el principio de la integridad de la soberanía nacional en la gestión del espacio marítimo portugués. Es decir, aplicó el denominado “veto político” (con base en el artículo 136º1 de la Constitución Portuguesa) en lugar del “veto jurídico” – que se hubiera producido si el PR hubiese optado por enviar la propuesta para el TC. Dando seguimiento al denominado “veto político” del Presidente de la República (PR), los diputados presentaron una nueva propuesta con la intención de responder a las dudas suscitadas por el PR y previamente referidas. El 2 de octubre de 2020, la misma fue aprobada en votación final general por una amplia mayoría – apenas 10 de los 230 diputados con asiento en el Parlamento portugués votaron contra, aunque también hubo una amplia abstención – y, finalmente, en 14 de noviembre de 2020, fue promulgada por el PR. En primer lugar, la normativa en análisis, procede a una alteración de los artículos 1º, 3º, 5º, 8º y 12º de la Ley n.º 17/2014, de 10 de abril, con la finalidad de transferir a las “Regiones Autónomas” competencias de la Administración Central en el espacio marítimo bajo la soberanía o jurisdicción nacional adyacente a los respetivos archipiélagos (Azores y Madeira), respetando la integridad y soberanía del Estado. Este “espacio adyacente a los archipiélagos” comprende tanto la Zona Económica Exclusiva (ZEE), como la Plataforma Continental (PC) hasta las 200 millas náuticas, ya que relativamente a la zona del PC más allá de las 200 millas (también denominada “Plataforma Continental Extendida”) lo que establece el nº 3 del artículo 8º es que los instrumentos de ordenación del espacio marítimo son elaborados y aprobados por el Gobierno, pero requieren un parecer previo y vinculante por parte de las referida regiones – salvo si se trata de materias relacionadas con la integridad y soberanía del Estado. Así, tanto La Madeira como Los Azores: por un lado, participan junto con la Administración Central en las políticas nacionales de ordenación del espacio marítimo – unas vez que las acciones promovidas en este espacio por las dos Regiones Autónomas deben ser integradas en las referidos políticas nacionales y, por tanto, condicionan, o son susceptibles de condicionar, las mismas; por otro lado, participan junto con la Administración Central en la gestión conjunta o compartida de la zona adyacente a los respectivos archipiélagos hasta las 200 millas náuticas, bien como en “procedimientos de codecisión” cuando se trate de actividades que requieren la utilización privativa de los fondos marinos y que tengan repercusiones en el régimen económico y financiero de los referidos usos privativos del dominio público marítimo (artículo 8º 4 in fine). Por último, pero no menos importante se añade un nuevo artículo 31º A, en virtud del cual se atribuye a las Regiones Autónomas de Madeira y Azores en la zona adyacente a los respectivos archipiélagos: competencias que antes eran de la Administración Central en materia de gestión y planificación, bien como la competencia exclusiva em materia de licenciamiento de los usos privativos del dominio público marítimo del Estado para las actividades de extracción de recursos geológicos, la pesca y la producción de energías renovables – esto, una vez más, desde que se respete la integridad y soberanía del Estado. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Madeira forms a mid-Atlantic volcanic archipelago, whose economy is largely dependent on tourism. There, one can encounter different types of sand beach: natural basaltic, natural calcareous and artificial calcareous. Microbiological and mycological quality of the sand was analyzed in two different years. Bacterial indicators were detected in higher number in 2010 (36.7% of the samples) than in 2011 (9.1%). Mycological indicators were detected in a similar percentage of samples in 2010 (68.3%) and 2011 (75%), even though the total number of colonies detected in 2010 was much higher (827 in 41 samples) than in 2011 (427 in 66 samples). Enterococci and potentially pathogenic and allergenic fungi (particularly Penicillium sp.) were the most common indicators detected in both years. Candida sp. yeast was also commonly detected in the samples. The analysis of the 3rd quartile and maximum numbers of all indicators in samples showed that artificial beaches tend to be more contaminated than the natural ones. However, a significant difference between the variables was lacking. More monitoring data (number of bathers, sea birds, radiation intensity variation, and a greater number of samples) should be collected in order to confirm if these differences are significant. In general, the sand quality in the archipelago's beaches was good. As the sand may be a vector of diseases, an international common set of indicators and values and a compatible methodologies for assessing sand contamination, should be defined, in order to provide the bather's with an indication of beach sand quality, rather than only the water. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article offers the authors' insights on the comment of Susana Prada and colleagues on their article "Cloud water interception in the high-altitude tree heath forest (Erica arborea L.) of Paul da Serra Massif (Madeira, Portugal)." The authors argue that the fog precipitation in the high tree heath forest in Madeira is unusually high when compared with other locations. They believe that the part of fog in throughfall should be considered rather than the total measurement of fog precipitation.

This paper examines the degree of persistence in annual Nordic tourist arrivals on the island of Madeira by using data disaggregated by tourism-source countries. For this purpose, the paper adopts methodologies based on the concept of fractional integration. The stability of the fractional differencing parameter across the sample period is also analysed and a brief forecasting exercise is also conducted. The result indicates that the series are highly persistent and only Sweden presents a small degree of mean reverting behaviour. Managerial implications of the main findings are also discussed in the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy rainfall on February 20, 2010, triggered numerous shallow rapid landslides across Madeira Island, a Portuguese archipelago in the North Atlantic. Two days after the extreme rainfall event, a field campaign was started which involved describing and mapping a variety of landslide types and the related losses at 120 different locations throughout the Island. Most of the failures started as debris slides or avalanches at high elevations and transformed into debris flows which rushed downslope into populated coastal areas. Over half of the mapped landslides were located in the central and southern area of the island. A further 1,257 landslide locations were revealed in these areas using remote sensing data which were then assembled in a spatial database. Due to anthropogenic influences caused by urban development and population expansion, the event demonstrated the increased vulnerability of the island's infrastructure. In order to mitigate future losses, it is important to quantify the typical preparatory factors which contribute to rainfall-induced landslides. This increases our understanding of the hazards and associated risks. The analysis shows that based on their spatial frequency, distribution and in the context of the drainage system, three main factors contribute to the triggering of the landslides due to the heavy rainfall event in February 2010: the characteristic soil type, the land cover and the slope gradient. It can now be recognized that the distribution of landslides is highly dependent on the temporal and spatial distribution of these factors. Furthermore, the anthropogenic impact on the extent of the hazard becomes obvious due to poor settlement planning and drainage system modification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The broad belt of intraplate volcanism in the East Atlantic between 25° and 37° N is proposed to have formed by two adjacent hotspot tracks (the Madeira and Canary tracks) that possess systematically different isotopic signatures reflecting different mantle source compositions. To test this model, Hf isotope ratios from volcanic rocks from all individual islands and all major seamounts are presented in this study. In comparison with published Nd isotope variations (6 εNd units), Hf/Hf ratios span a much larger range (14 εHf units). Samples from the proposed Madeira hotspot track have the most radiogenic Hf isotopic compositions (Hf/Hf up to 0.283335), extending across the entire field for central Atlantic MORB. They form a relatively narrow, elongated trend on the Nd vs. Hf isotope diagram (stretching over > 10 εHf units) between a depleted N-MORB-like endmember and a moderately enriched composition located on, or slightly below, the Nd-Hf mantle array, which overlaps the proposed 'C' mantle component of Hanan and Graham (). In contrast, all samples from the Canary hotspot track plot below the mantle array (Hf/Hf = 0.282943-0.283067) and form a much denser cluster with less compositional variation (~4 εHf units). The cluster falls between (1) a low Hf isotope HIMU-like endmember, (2) a more depleted composition, and (3) the moderately enriched end of the Madeira trend. The new Hf isotope data confirm the general geochemical distinction of the Canary and Madeira domains in the East Atlantic. Both domains, however, seem to share a common, moderately enriched endmember that has 'C'-like isotope compositions and is believed to represent subducted, <1-Ga-old oceanic lithosphere (oceanic crust and possibly minor sediment addition). The lower Hf/Hf ratio of the enriched, HIMU-like Canary domain endmember indicates the contribution of oceanic lithosphere with somewhat older recycling ages of ≥1 Ga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]