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The article explores the expansion of U.S. empire in the decade before the American Civil War to search for cheap access to guano fertilizers across the Pacific Ocean. It argues that the practices of southern cash crop cultivation that relied on soil mining contributed to the growth of domestic demand for imported guano fertilizers. It focuses on a region called the Chesapeake South as the primary leading force behind the expansionary policy of the U.S.

Birds are a large nutrient vector from marine to terrestrial environments where the increased nutrient input typically results in greater primary production and enhanced microbial activity. Associated invertebrate populations however, show large response variability to bird nutrient subsidies. To explain this variable invertebrate response, we performed a meta-analysis (50 articles ranging from polar to tropical regions) where we compared the effect of bird presence on invertebrate populations between: bird taxa, nesting site selection, bird diet and climate regions. In addition, we quantified how different invertebrate taxa and trophic guilds respond to the presence of birds. Invertebrate abundance was on average > 1000% higher by bird presence, but there was little evidence for any specific bird-taxa effects on invertebrate abundance responses. Birds with a mixed diet increased Coleoptera populations the most. Invertebrate responses to bird presence were largest in polar regions but variation remained high. Not all species within communities responded to bird presence, indicating that nutrient limitation is species-specific or ecosystems are affected in different ways by birds. Furthermore, sampling strategies were inconsistent and may impact effect-sizes. Despite the contrasting nature of the different studies, an overall positive invertebrate abundance response was found in the presence of birds, with larger responses observed in polar regions. Standardized sampling approaches would resolve much of the remaining variability. As natural experiments, bird nests and affected areas are a prime spot to study community assembly rules and address issues of anthropogenic disturbance and climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fungal studies are scant within this region of Borneo, and the potential effects of anthropogenic disturbance on fungal communities in Sabahan caves have not been explored. This study involved opportunistic sampling of guano, speleothems, and cavern water from four caves in Sabah, Malaysia, categorised according to the level of anthropogenic activity. The dilution method was used for fungal isolation and abundance calculations. Morphological identification of axenic cultures was conducted, and DNA barcoding of the ITS region of cryptic species corroborated identification. A total of 170 axenic cultures were attained, composed of 69 morphological taxonomic units (MTUs), 33 genera, ten orders, and two divisions -- Ascomycota and Basidiomycota. Fifty-seven of the 69 MTUs were identified to the species level. The genera Aspergillus and Penicillium were particularly prevalent, with a combined total of 86 isolations (50.6%). Notably, twelve species were documented for the first time in cave ecosystems of Sabah. The average fungal abundance across all substrates and fungal taxa occurrence was found to be higher in samples found in active caves. A significant difference in relative abundance was observed between active and non-active cave conditions. Beta regression modelling indicated that anthropogenic activity is a significant factor influencing the composition of cave fungal communities. While anthropogenic activity seems to affect cave mycobiomes, especially by selecting for ubiquitous fungi, it is likely not the sole influencing determinant of their composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most caves, the main source of organic matter is provided by bats, through guano, which is influenced by their type of diet. A wide variety of organisms live in it, such as bacteria, fungi, mites, springtails, and other arthropods, many of them adapted to the cave environment, especially several families of mites with different eating habits are frequent in the guano and each of them has a role in the nutrient cycling that takes place within the caves. As part of a research project on argasid ticks in caves in Mexico, during 2010-2016, bat guano collections were carried out in 15 caves in seven states of the country. Herein, the records of 90 Acari taxa are presented, included in four orders, 52 families, 27 genera and 11 species determined to date, associated with guano from caves in central and southern Mexico with a diverse geological origin. Different groups of mites carry out particular roles in the food web within caves, due to their diverse feeding habits. The information presented provides data to understand the diversity of guanobia mites and their role within the caves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ants can be found in insect communities associated with droppings, but most studies about this interaction have been carried out in subterranean environments, specifically in the study of the interaction between ants and bat guano.In this report, we describe the first case of interaction between seven different ant species and the droppings of two bat species in epigean environments. The study was performed in bat roosts monitored from March to October 2022 in the Doñana Biological Reserve of the Doñana National Park (Huelva, SW Spain). It was carried out via direct observations of droppings deposited on the ground surface or in tree‐mounted dropping collectors below bat boxes.We report a total of 37 interactions by seven different species of ants with droppings of two species of bat, the soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus) and the greater noctule (Nyctalus lasiopterus), in four different habitats (Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Pinus pinea, Populus alba and ground surface).The generalist characters and the omnivorous diets of the ant species observed, in addition to the abundant availability of droppings during a period of food scarcity, suggest that droppings are transported as a food resource, with the consequent implications that this interaction may have on faecal degradation and nutrient cycling, as one of the supporting services provided by ants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we delve into the intricate connections between the movement of people, especially muleteers, in the highlands of Jujuy (Argentina), and specific offerings of archaeological and ethnographic origin that shape the local landscape. These offerings, known as challas, are acullicos or chewed coca wads thrown fresh onto mountain walls, where they adhere and subsequently dry. The research focuses on Huachichocana, an indigenous community located between the valley and puna areas of the province of Jujuy, where there are several ancient natural passes historically used for human movement. Drawing on ethnographic data gathered from 2011 to 2019, we analyze the practices and contexts surrounding these offerings, exploring their sensory dimensions—textures, colors, and shapes. This study aligns with various academic precedents in the field. As our research progresses, we establish a connection between these coca offerings and pusno: processed plant matter retrieved from the carcasses of ruminant animals when they are butchered. Pusno, handled delicately and placed at specific points in space, serves as an offering to powerful locations. Inspired by Levi-Strauss’s culinary analyses, we posit that acullicos and pusno function as intermediary terms between fresh coca and decomposed guano, akin to the circulation of human and animal bodies through space. This exploration opens up novel avenues in Andean studies, prompting a reflection on the intertwined existence of body and geography, navigating transformations and intermediate stages—a contemplation on the possibility that they are fractal reflections of each other

The Arctic and Antarctica represent two of the most inhospitable and poorly investigated biomes in the world. Although polar regions are still perceived as some of the most pristine places still in existence, these remote places are no longer immune to anthropogenic pollution, in particular, micro- and nanoplastics. Seabirds, avian species feeding mainly at sea, are indicators of change in the environment and represent an early study group of ecological indicators for plastic pollution. The goal of this bibliometric overview is to evaluate international research trends on the impacts of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) on seabirds inhabiting polar regions. A total of at least 13 seabird species were reported to have ingested MPs from 1983-2023. Overall, 1130 samples were investigated, including stomach content, pouch content, guano, and pellets. Pellets were the most investigated substrate (699), followed by stomach contents (309), guano (101), and pouch contents (21). A median of 31.5 MPs per sample was found in the Arctic, with an average of 7.2 MPs per sample. A median of 35 MPs per sample was found in Antarctica, with an average of 1.1 MPs per sample. Overall, MPs were most frequently found in fragment form. A total of 3526 MPs were retrieved from stomachs (3013), pellets (398), guano (75), and pouch contents (40). Polyethylene was the dominant plastic polymer found, followed by polypropylene and polystyrene. The monitoring of MP ingestion is crucial to mitigating the impacts on marine and terrestrial organisms. Standardized protocols could boost the safeguarding of seabirds and reduce the impacts of MPs on polar regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic (MP) pollution is ubiquitous throughout the planet and has become a global concern. There are many reports of microplastic ingestion by seabirds and inland waterbirds. However, only handful of studies have investigated the microplastic ingestion in the terrestrial birds. We are the frst to report evidence of microplastics in the feces of Indian house crows Corvus splendens. Microplastics were detected in 92% of the fecal samples. Mean number of microplastics obtained for each feces was 2.64±1.47 particles. Only two diferent shapes of microplastic were observed in our study—fbers (99%) and fragments (1%). Average length for microplastics was 1727.16 µm, and width was 27.07 µm. About 97% of the plastic particles were below 5 mm. Black was the prominent color of microplastics followed by blue and gray. FTIR–ATR revealed that polyester fbers were prominent (21.21%), followed by polypropylene (16.67%), LDPE (15.15%), HDPE (9.09%), cellulose acetate (7.58%), and nylon (6.06%). SEM revealed the degraded surface of microplastics and EDX revealed that carbon/oxygen ratio was 69:22 confrming that the microplastic was a polymer. Understanding the fate of microplastics in the terrestrial ecosystem is crucial, hence further broader works should be carried out to understand microplastics in the terrestrial ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the lack of conclusive articles on the effect of guano, which is classified as a natural fertiliser, an experiment was conducted to evaluate its effect on the yield and quality of perennial ryegrass of the Rela variety. The guano used in the experiment contained significant concentrations in g·kg-1 DM of nitrogen (23.1), phosphorus (9.52) and magnesium (2.90). The concentration of heavy metals did not exceed the applicable standards in organic fertilisers. The total content of N and P in guano was higher relative to K, and Mg and Ca were similar. The concentration of N and Mg in guano is comparable to the content of these elements in poultry manure. The guano reaction was slightly acidic (5.86). The fertiliser value of guano was assessed in a vegetation-weed two-factor experiment. The test scheme included control, guano and guano with ammonium nitrate applied at three doses. The dry biomass yield of perennial ryegrass from individual cuts varied considerably. The objects with applied guano and guano with ammonium nitrate increased the average yield of perennial ryegrass from cut 1 by 102.9% compared to the control object. Applied guano fertilisation significantly increased the sum of perennial ryegrass yield from three cuts. As a result of the applied fertilisation, there was an increase in N, P and Ca content in perennial ryegrass, while K and Mg content increased to a negligible extent and thus contributed to optimal ionic ratios of Ca:P and K:(Ca+Mg). In contrast, the ionic ratio K:Mg deviated significantly from the optimal values for plants. The application of guano and guano with ammonium nitrate influenced the positive correlation between N and Ca content and the obtained yield of perennial ryegrass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we delve into the intricate connections between the movement of people, especially muleteers, in the highlands of Jujuy (Argentina), and specific offerings of archaeological and ethnographic origin that shape the local landscape. These offerings, known as challas, are acullicos or chewed coca wads thrown fresh onto mountain walls, where they adhere and subsequently dry. The research focuses on Huachichocana, an indigenous community located between the valley and puna areas of the province of Jujuy, where there are several ancient natural passes historically used for human movement. Drawing on ethnographic data gathered from 2011 to 2019, we analyze the practices and contexts surrounding these offerings, exploring their sensory dimensions--textures, colors, and shapes. This study aligns with various academic precedents in the field. As our research progresses, we establish a connection between these coca offerings and pusno: processed plant matter retrieved from the carcasses of ruminant animals when they are butchered. Pusno, handled delicately and placed at specific points in space, serves as an offering to powerful locations. Inspired by Levi-Strauss's culinary analyses, we posit that acullicos and pusno function as intermediary terms between fresh coca and decomposed guano, akin to the circulation of human and animal bodies through space. This exploration opens up novel avenues in Andean studies, prompting a reflection on the intertwined existence of body and geography, navigating transformations and intermediate stages--a contemplation on the possibility that they are fractal reflections of each other. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Periplo Sustentable is the property of Yanelli Daniela Palmas Castrejon and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The Arctic and Antarctica represent two of the most inhospitable and poorly investigated biomes in the world. Although polar regions are still perceived as some of the most pristine places still in existence, these remote places are no longer immune to anthropogenic pollution, in particular, micro- and nanoplastics. Seabirds, avian species feeding mainly at sea, are indicators of change in the environment and represent an early study group of ecological indicators for plastic pollution. The goal of this bibliometric overview is to evaluate international research trends on the impacts of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) on seabirds inhabiting polar regions. A total of at least 13 seabird species were reported to have ingested MPs from 1983–2023. Overall, 1130 samples were investigated, including stomach content, pouch content, guano, and pellets. Pellets were the most investigated substrate (699), followed by stomach contents (309), guano (101), and pouch contents (21). A median of 31.5 MPs per sample was found in the Arctic, with an average of 7.2 MPs per sample. A median of 35 MPs per sample was found in Antarctica, with an average of 1.1 MPs per sample. Overall, MPs were most frequently found in fragment form. A total of 3526 MPs were retrieved from stomachs (3013), pellets (398), guano (75), and pouch contents (40). Polyethylene was the dominant plastic polymer found, followed by polypropylene and polystyrene. The monitoring of MP ingestion is crucial to mitigating the impacts on marine and terrestrial organisms. Standardized protocols could boost the safeguarding of seabirds and reduce the impacts of MPs on polar regions.

The great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo) is a species that alters ecosystems significantly, mainly by depositions of guano, which changes the chemical properties of soil and can lead even to deforestation as well as have a significant impact on soil mite communities. The study was conducted on three islands: abandoned by cormorants recently (Z1), abandoned three years ago (LI) and a site without cormorants (Z2) for comparison. The species composition of island Z1 did not differ significantly from the fauna of the previously studied colonies. Many xerophilous and meadow species occurred on LI island, which was likely caused by deforestation because of cormorant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Karaftu Cave in the northwest of Divandareh includes four floors plus an underground area. The bat hall and its underground area are covered with guano deposits. 14C dating indicates the onset of guano deposition is about 14,260±50 BP years, and its average accumulation rate is about 4.1 mm/yr for depths of 360 to 205 cm. Bacterial and fungal metabolisms decay guano, release acids, and disperse large amounts of microorganisms inside the cave. Interactions between acids and guano caused leaching, dissolution, change in the distribution, and abundance of elements, which leads to the formation of secondary minerals in guano. These variations in minerals and elements also depend on the local climatic conditions. Distribution of elements in the Ce/Ce* versus Pr/Pr* diagram and the correlation coefficient between Ce and Mn display three different paleoclimate conditions (dry, wet, and dry) during the accumulation of the guano. Also, dolomite, phosphate, and iron oxide minerals have been formed during the passage of water through bedrock beneath the guano. This water is unsuitable for drinking and harmful to the organisms in the region. Effect of these acids on the substrate also leads to the collapse of the cave floor, generation of a new underground, fall in the groundwater level, change in the groundwater drainage system, drying of springs around the cave, loss of green cover, and a negative impact on the ecosystem in the region. To keep the cave environment clean and remove these problems, it is better to harvest guano and use it as fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A better understanding of the role of bat caves as nitrogen sinks in tropical moist forest ecosystems can be expected to shed light on regional and spatial variability in nutrient recycling studies. We measured the nitrogen flux (in air and water) associated with a very large Chaerephon plicata bat colony in Deer Cave, Borneo, in the process generating a new, quantitative, estimate of the total bat population (774,828 ±48,320), and the first detailed modelling of an ammonia plume in a cave. Long-term storage of N does not occur in this wet cave. Our final budget numbers indicate that, of the daily input of N (i.e., ecologically-useful fixed-N in guano) to this cave, ammonia production is minor (and most of it is exported in water rather than air). The conclusion is that the export budget is dominated (perhaps as large as 94.4%) by microbial denitrification of fixed-N to diatomic N exported in air. Deer Cave thus acts as a nitrogen sink, potentially removing up to 39% of the ecologically-useful fixed-N from the total forest nitrogen budget over an area of hundreds of square kilometers.

Las Guerras de Independencia en Sudamérica constituyen un periodo rico en contradicciones sociales, politización de masas y emergencia de nuevos actores en un contexto de crisis del Imperio español en el continente. La perspectiva regional, que descentraliza y democratiza el conocimiento en relación a la historiografía nacionalista estadocentrica, nos permite analizar episodios y descubrir actores históricos que habían quedado, hasta ahora, ausentes en el estado de la cuestión disponible. En el presente trabajo observamos un caso particular que refiere al usufructo del guano tarapaqueño durante la invasión patriota del partido de Tarapacá, en 1815 y la ofensiva rioplatense en el vecino Alto Perú. A partir de fuentes primarias inéditas y discusión bibliográfica pertinente sostenemos que un sector de la sociedad regional coincidió temporalmente con la causa patriota en función de factores socio-étnicos, intereses y nuevas concepciones en torno al uso de los recursos regionales. El conflicto político, económico y social alrededor del guano constituye así un desconocido antecedente de la transformación de la sociedad regional colonial en los albores del siglo XIX y el inminente surgimiento del orden republicano en el sur peruano.

Excavation of a green breccia lens in the otherwise shaley Hudspeth Formation of central Oregon recovered a surprising variety of fossils of different kinds: plant impressions, mollusc shells, and vertebrate bones and teeth. Some ammonites, such as Mortoniceras inflatum, which date the deposit as late Albian (103 Ma), were preserved with shell intact below, but dissolved above back to sutures. Intact ammonites were outnumbered by angular ammonite fragments in the size range 1–2 cm. Marine clams, snails and ammonites were found in the same bed as a variety of fossil plants, including horsetails, ferns, cycads, and conifers. Also recovered were bones of fish, ichthyosaurs, dinosaurs, and pterosaurs. Orientation of large fossil logs and branches reveal derivation from the east, where a shoreline of shingle beaches and alluvial fans created the interfingering Gable Creek Conglomerate. The matrix-supported green breccia is massive and ungraded, and interpreted as a mass flow deposit. Enrichment in phosphorus compared with shale above and below is evidence that its fine-grained component includes guano. This guano and unusual fragmentation of ammonites are interpreted as evidence that the Oregon pterosaur, Bennettazhia oregonensis, was a mollusc-eater and formed large colonies on nearby cliffs, like modern gull rookeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Estudios Atacameños is the property of Estudios Atacamenos and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Cova de sa Guitarreta is located in the southern part of Mallorca Island (western Mediterranean). It was formed presumably by hypogenic processes in Upper Miocene reefal calcarenites. The cave hosts an important breeding colony of bats during the end of spring and early summer. Its microclimate is influenced by the presence of a thermal phreatic water table (27.7ºC) as well as by bat populations remaining in the cave along the reproductive season. The morphological bat-related features include bat claws and thumb marks scratches, together with several morphologies linked to bat excreta and aggressive leachates from guano. From the mineralogical point of view, this cave outstands regarding the presence of cave minerals linked to guano: nine phosphates have been identified, comprising three of them that are reported for the first time in Mallorcan caves (newberyite, struvite and whitlockite). Particularly interesting is the dichotomy between struvite and newberyite: the first one occurs when the cave is occupied by bat colonies (spring-summer), whereas in the colder seasons would occur the transformation of metastable struvite into a more stable newberyite. Caves with seasonal cyclical occupation of bat colonies could provide a new arena for the study of the guano-related mineral assemblages.

Simple Summary: The extent of the use of tree hollows by bats is relatively unknown. However, these are vital habitats for cavern-dwelling bats to use when seeking rest, protection, hibernation, or reproduction opportunities. We collected bat guano from nearly 200 tree hollows to determine which species were present, using genetic markers, and which habitat characteristics influenced roost use. Our results indicate a different species composition than previously known in redwood trees (Sequoia sempervirens) on the North Coast of California. Based on the quantity of guano collected, more bats roosted in hollows with high ceilings and in forests with fewer small trees. Researchers may use the techniques of guano collection and DNA analysis presented here for the management and conservation of bat populations. The loss of roosting resources, either through disturbance or removal, negatively affects bats. Identifying sensitive species and determining roost requirements are critical components in conserving their habitat. Cavity-roosting bats on the North Coast of California are known to use hollows in large redwood trees. In this study, we examined the factors determining the use of basal tree hollows by different bat species at eight redwood forest sites in Del Norte, Humboldt, and Mendocino Counties, California. Bat guano was collected from 179 basal hollow roosts from 2017 to 2018, and guano mass was used as an index of roosting activity. Nine bat species and one species group were identified by analysis of DNA in guano. We made a total of 253 identifications from 83 hollows into the 10 species categories. The most prevalent species were Myotis californicus (California myotis; 28.5% of all identifications), the Myotis evotis-Myotis thysanodes group (17.4%), Corynorhinus townsendii (17.0%), and Myotis volans (15.0%). We evaluated the extent to which habitat variables at the scales of the hollow, vicinity, and site influenced the level of roost use. The correlations between guano mass and habitat variables were examined using generalized additive mixed models. At the hollow scale, guano mass increased with ceiling height above the opening. At the vicinity scale, guano mass increased with less cover of small trees. At the site scale, there was no association between guano mass and distance to foraging areas, elevation, or the number of nearby hollows. These tree hollow roost preferences can inform land managers when planning the management and conservation of redwood forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guano can be used as an organic fertilizer in anticipating fertilizer shortages. This study aims to obtain the right dose of guano for the growth and yield of sweet corn (Zea mays saccharata L). The method used in this study was a single-factor randomized block design, consisting of 4 treatments of doses of guano fertilizer and 4 replications. Fertilizer dosage treatments were: g0 = no guano, g1 = 3 tons guano/ha, g2 = 5 tons guano/ha, g3 = 7 tons guano/ha. Observation parameters consisted of plant height (cm), the number of leaves (strand), the diameter of the stem (cm), the diameter of the ear (cm), the length of the ear (cm), and the weight of fruit/bed (kg). The results showed that the use of guano at a dose of 7 tons/ha was the best dose for plant height, the number of leaves, ear diameter, stem diameter, and cob weight. It was concluded that guano could increase the growth and yield of sweet corn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective Coronaviruses (CoVs) are natural commensals of bats. Two subgenera, namely Sarbecoviruses and Merbecoviruses have a high zoonotic potential and have been associated with three separate spillover events in the past 2 decades, making surveillance of bat-CoVs crucial for the prevention of the next epidemic. The study was aimed to elucidate the presence of coronavirus in fresh bat guano sampled from Wind Cave Nature Reserve (WCNR) in Sarawak, Malaysian Borneo. Samples collected were placed into viral transport medium, transported on ice within the collection day, and preserved at − 80 °C. Nucleic acid was extracted using the column method and screened using consensus PCR primers targeting the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene. Amplicons were sequenced bidirectionally using the Sanger method. Phylogenetic tree with maximum-likelihood bootstrap and Bayesian posterior probability were constructed. Results CoV-RNA was detected in ten specimens (47.6%, n = 21). Six alphacoronavirus and four betacoronaviruses were identified. The bat-CoVs can be phylogenetically grouped into four novel clades which are closely related to Decacovirus-1 and Decacovirus-2, Sarbecovirus, and an unclassified CoV. CoVs lineages unique to the Island of Borneo were discovered in Sarawak, Malaysia, with one of them closely related to Sarbecovirus. All of them are distant from currently known human coronaviruses.

Many freshwater systems throughout the world support a high number of waterbird congregations. Previous works suggest waterbirds have the potential to deposit a considerable amount of nutrients into the waterbody that may cause eutrophication. To investigate the effect of the waterbirds on the dynamics of the ecosystem, we developed a process-based model incorporating waterbirds as a forcing function, namely GUANOTROPHY_P. In this work, the model is perturbed to understand the dynamics of different state variables to different scenarios of changing waterbird number of various feeding guilds, the digestive performance of waterbirds, P concentration in waterbird faeces, temperature, dissolved oxygen and initial biomass of macrophytes. It is found that an increase in ornithogenic nutrient load the system responds with increased concentrations of abiotic state variables (highest in organic phosphorus). At the same time, zooplankton is most positively sensitive to changes in waterbird numbers among biotic state variables. Grazing by waterbirds negatively affected the P concentration of all state variables. Temperature positively affects all state variables except sediment total phosphorous because sediment total P decreased by temperature-induced resuspension of organic P and desorption of inorganic P from sediment. Among the biotic state variables, phytoplankton was most sensitive to temperature. Dissolved oxygen was found to have minimal impact on the ecosystem and maximum effect on soluble reactive phosphorous concentration in water. At last, some lacunae of the model are highlighted as found in the scenario analysis.

Since human settlement approximately 2,000 years ago, Pacific Island nutrient cycles have been increasingly modified. Modern agricultural intensification has resulted in further changes in the island nutrient flows. Country scale agricultural land nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) budgeting in Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati, and Tuvalu were calculated from FAO country statistic data (1964-2018). Nutrient input data from birds, atmospheric dust, and rainfall and human waste were calculated from literature values. Overall, there are nutrient imbalances in all countries and agricultural lands are exporting nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The budgeting calculations did not consider nutrient losses via erosion, leaching and run-off or denitrification, and the net nutrient fluxes may well be greater than reported. The use of animal and human waste would help off-set nutrient imbalances, but additional macroand micro-nutrients would need to be added for balanced plant nutrition and soil carbon sequestration. While increasing fertiliser inputs will improve the nutrient balance and potential primary productivity, trade-offs such as nutrient losses will need to be considered. Improving nutrient budgets would need a farming systems approach, whereby the use of cover crops, crop rotations and legumes would augment the fertiliser applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some recent publications on the paleo- and historical environmental interpretation of bat guano sequences have relied on 210Pb and 137Cs distribution to establish age-depth models, even when these are at odds with radiocarbon models in the lower parts of the sequence. Here, we present both field and laboratory evidence for the unpredictable mobility of lead and cesium in decomposing bat guano deposits. We suggest that 210Pb- and 137Cs-based chronologies of bat guano deposits should only be used when independently supported, for example, by a robust radiocarbon age-depth model.

El objetivo del presente artículo es mostrar la importancia del Banco de Crédito Hipotecario en el resurgimiento de la agricultura de exportación en el Perú antes de la guerra con Chile. Dicho banco es considerado el primero en ser creado para financiar las actividades productivas como la agricultura de exportación, en tiempos improductivos donde la economía peruana dependía y giraba en torno a las exportaciones del guano. El artículo también busca demostrar que la burguesía mercantil y bancaria, criticada de ser simple rentista que vivía a expensas del Estado peruano, invirtió sus capitales en entidades financieras como el Banco de Crédito Hipotecario para financiar el desarrollo del país a través de actividades productivas como la agricultura de exportación que pudieran generar ingresos y evitar la dependencia fiscal de las exportaciones del guano.

Cave guano deposits represent a relatively untapped paleoecological archive that can provide information about past vegetation, climate, and bat diet over several millennia. Recent research suggests that carbon isotope values (δ13C) measured in guano accumulations from insectivorous bats reflect the relative abundance of C3 and C4 plants on the landscape while nitrogen isotope values (δ15N) may reflect precipitation amount. Together, these proxies can provide useful information for restoration practitioners seeking to understand how plant species composition has changed over time in relation to climate and land use. To better calibrate these proxies for use in restoration, we compared instrumental records of precipitation and satellite imagery of vegetation with isotope values measured in modern bat guano from Mary Lawson Cave, a large limestone cavern located in central Missouri. Mary Lawson Cave hosts a maternity colony of insectivorous gray bats (Myotis grisescens), and as such, contains significant guano accumulations. In the fall of 2018, we collected a 60 cm long guano core that dates to 1999 cal AD at its base. Guano core δ13C values decrease from the base toward the surface (from ~-26 to -27‰) whereas δ15N values increase toward the surface even after accounting for ammonia volatilization (from ~3 to 5‰). Presently, the landscape around Mary Lawson Cave is dominated by a deciduous forest and pasture. Given that the land cover has changed very little over this period, the decline in δ13C values toward the present likely reflects a shift in land management on farms and/or increases in invasive C3 species. Rainfall amounts from nearby Lebanon, Missouri, are significantly positively correlated with guano δ15N values, a relationship that is notably opposite that observed previously in soil and plants. We argue that heavy fertilizer application and significant grazing intensity could lead to the accumulation of large pools of excess labile nitrogen which would be vulnerable to leaching during precipitation events. The relationship between guano δ15N values and precipitation may differ for materials from less agriculturally impacted locations or periods and should be extended into the past with caution.

Seabirds are long-range transporters of nutrients and contaminants, linking marine feeding areas with terrestrial breeding and roosting sites. By depositing nutrient-rich guano, which acts as a fertiliser, seabirds can substantially influence the terrestrial environment in which they reside. However, increasing pollution of the marine environment has resulted in guano becoming similarly polluted. Here, we determined metal and metalloid concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Pb) in Flesh-footed Shearwater (Ardenna carneipes) guano, soil, terrestrial flora, and primary consumers and used an ecological approach to assess whether the trace elements in guano were bioaccumulating and contaminating the surrounding environment. Concentrations in guano were higher than those of other Procellariiformes documented in the literature, which may be influenced by the high amounts of plastics that this species of shearwater ingests. Soil samples from shearwater colonies had significantly higher concentrations of all metals, except for Pb, than soils from control sites and formerly occupied areas. Concentrations in terrestrial primary producers and primary consumers were not as marked, and for many contaminants there was no significant difference observed across levels of ornithogenic input. We conclude that Flesh-footed Shearwaters are transporters of marine derived contaminants to the Lord Howe Island terrestrial environment. [Display omitted] • Flesh-footed Shearwaters are vectors for metals and metalloids to Lord Howe Island. • Guano metal concentrations were greater than Procellariiformes in the literature. • As, Cd, Cu and Hg concentrations were higher in soils from colonies versus controls. • The concentration of Cd and Cr in colony soils exceeds soil guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Secondary phosphates controlled by microstructural and microchemical factors. • The degree of rock fracturing influences the infiltration of guano at depth. • The degree of serpentinization controls the microchemistry of phosphate. • Sedimentary rock's minerals are linked to Holocene sea-level cycles and SPSPA uplift. The São Pedro and São Paulo archipelago (SPSPA) is noteworthy for its unusual lithology when compared to other oceanic archipelagos, consisting of mylonitized and serpentinized peridotites, and rare carbonate sedimentary rocks. There, marine bird species use these substrates as a nesting ground and excrement deposition (i.e. guano), resulting in widespread phosphatization of local substrates. The unique geological nature of the SPSPA makes it particularly fascinating for geochemical and mineralogical research since diverse lithological, microstructural and microchemical attributes are present. This study aims to investigate the microscale chemical and mineral composition of the phosphatization materials in SPSPA, in relation to different geological substrates and associated mineralogy. Speleothems of secondary phosphates formed in fractures and on the walls, as a result of guano percolation. The microstructural control is the primary factor, which depends on the degree of rock fracturing. Wider and interconnected fractures allow the gravitational flow of cations and phosphate rich solutions with resulting phosphatization. Secondary factor is the substrate/guano interaction, which contributes to the precipitation of secondary phosphate minerals. The microchemical control is influenced by the degree of serpentinization, which leads to the generation of iron phosphates with structural potassium and aluminum. Phosphatization of sedimentary rocks is associated with pre-existing fractures and cavities, as well as the carbonate composition of the rock. This study enhances our understanding of varying ornithogenesis in the SPSPA, with a specific emphasis on the process of phosphatization of oceanic islands. Understanding this process can assist in understand the genesis of phosphate deposits in comparable environments, enhancing the knowledge of the biogeochemical cycle of phosphorus on Earth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seabird species world‐wide are integral to both marine and terrestrial environments, connecting the two systems by transporting vast quantities of marine‐derived nutrients and pollutants to terrestrial breeding, roosting and nesting grounds via the deposition of guano and other allochthonous inputs (e.g. eggs, feathers).We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis and provide insight into what types of nutrients and pollutants seabirds are transporting, the influence these subsidies are having on recipient environments, with a particular focus on soil, and what may happen if seabird populations decline.The addition of guano to colony soils increased nutrient levels compared to control soils for all seabirds studied, with cascading positive effects observed across a range of habitats. Deposited guano sometimes led to negative impacts, such as guanotrophication, or guano‐induced eutrophication, which was often observed where there was an excess of guano or in areas with high seabird densities.While the literature describing nutrients transported by seabirds is extensive, literature regarding pollutant transfer is comparatively limited, with a focus on toxic and bioaccumulative metals. Research on persistent organic pollutants and plastics transported by seabirds is likely to increase in coming years.Studies were limited geographically, with hotspots of research activity in a few locations, but data were lacking from large regions around the world. Studies were also limited to seabird species listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. As seabird populations are impacted by multiple threats and steep declines have been observed for many species world‐wide, gaps in the literature are particularly concerning. The loss of seabirds will impact nutrient cycling at localized levels and potentially on a global scale as well, yet it is unknown what may truly happen to areas that rely on seabirds if these populations disappear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Between 1840 and 1880, multiple ships travelled towards the Atlantic coast of Patagonia, engaging in guano extraction. The Patagonian guano, though of inferior quality to the Peruvian product, was one of the most valuable coastal resources of the region. Drawing on a wide variety of documents and literature, the author has explored exploitation practices and logistics. 11 guano deposits exploited have been mapped and linked with details such as vessels, companies and harbours. The history of guano in the region shows an entanglement of connections and competition regarding the resource, raising inter-imperial disputes where different state and non-state agents operated to benefit both distant and regional economies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building on the theory of ecological imperialism in the context of the Peruvian guano boom, this analysis explores the metabolic rift in the human relation to external nature and the corresponding corporeal rift in the destruction of human bodily existence. Guano capitalists robbed Peru of the manure deposited by seabirds, while British imperialism introduced a system of racialized expropriation (the 'coolie trade'), referred to by Karl Marx as 'worse than slavery.' Previous failures to understand this historical tragedy were due to the legal forms adopted, which categorized as semi-free labor what was in fact the social murder of the workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional farming relies on the heavy application of synthetic agrochemicals, especially fertilizers. Thus, the search for an alternative sustainable source of safe agricultural inputs is imperative. Bat guano is an organic material that improves plant growth due to its rich chemical content and associated beneficial microorganisms. However, farmers still have a negative perception towards its utilization due to its associated microbiological hazards and limited supply. This study was conducted to determine the bacterial composition of guano produced by Scotophilus kuhlii to elucidate the potential benefits and hazards it poses when utilized as a soil amendment. The bacterial composition of a 24-h-old guano was investigated by sequencing the amplified 16S rRNA gene under Illumina MiSeq 250 PE system. A total of 78,670 valid DNA reads were obtained and clustered to 196 operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Eight bacterial phyla were identified dominated by Proteobacteria (40.52%), Bacteroidetes (21.43%), Actinobacteria (21.15%), and Firmicutes (16.58%). Under these phyla, 85 genera were identified dominated by Acinetobacter (32.16%), Sphingobacterium (12.94%), and Glutamicibacter (12.25%). Among all generated OTUs, 39 species were identified dominated by Dietzia cinnamea (19.91%), Spingobacterium multivorum (14.65%), Acinetobacter variabilis (14.57%), and Enterococcus faecalis (13.51%). The study revealed that guano of S. kuhlii harbors a diverse bacterial community, which could be a determinant of its usability as an organic soil amendment. Despite the presence of plantgrowth promoters and biodegraders of hazardous environmental contaminants, the abundance of Proteobacteria indicates a high number of pathogenic species in the fresh guano. The results suggest the importance of crafting safety guidelines and protocols for guano processing that apply to small-scale farming to maximize the agricultural benefits of guano while reducing the risks imposed by its associated pathogenic bacteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fundada en 1878, la Compañía Salitrera del Perú tuvo por objetivo administrar la producción y venta del mineral tras su azarosa nacionalización. Lo que en el papel parece ser una institución acorde a la dimensión del negocio salitrero, en la práctica no fue sino un mecanismo creado para garantizar el cumplimiento de las obligaciones fiscales con la banca limeña. La Compañía Salitrera del Perú acabó por subordinar las finanzas públicas a intereses privados, en un negocio estructurado sobre la cesión de créditos en condiciones onerosas en moneda devaluada, pagaderos con ventas del recurso en libras esterlinas. La deuda impagada, consecuente a la pérdida de la región salitrera tras la cesión con Chile, llevó a sus accionistas a reivindicar sus derechos financieros, demandando al Estado chileno en tribunales de ese país como acreedor hipotecario y consignatario del recurso. La Compañía Salitrera del Perú simboliza una etapa de la historia del Perú caracterizada por el difuso vínculo entre los intereses públicos y privados, por el centralismo absoluto en la toma de decisiones estratégicas y por la corrupción de sus instituciones públicas.

This paper presents new results of radiocarbon (14C) ages from archaeological sites in northern Igboland. The study was designed to shed more light on early human occupation and activities in the study area based on sediments from cave and iron-smelting sites. The approach consisted of ethnographic, archaeological, palynological, and slag analyses; these were complemented with 14C dates. The technology adopted as well as the paleoenvironmental conditions that prevailed during the period of human settlement in both sites was revealed. These data, complemented by 14C dates, highlight the human behavioral and subsistence patterns within the region and are comparable to those from similar sites in southeastern Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bats play crucial ecosystem services as seed dispersers, pollinators, controllers of insects, and nutrient recyclers. However, there has not been a thorough global review evaluating these roles in bats across all biogeographical regions of the world. We reviewed the literature published during the last two decades and identified 283 relevant studies: 78 dealt with the control of potential insect pests by bats, 80 related to the suppression of other arthropods, 60 on the dispersal of native or endemic seeds, 11 dealt with the dispersal of seeds of introduced plants, 29 on the pollination of native or endemic plants, 1 study on pollination of introduced plants, and 24 on the use of guano as fertilizer. Our literature search showed that queries combining the terms "seed dispersal," "insectivorous bats," "nectarivorous bats," "use of guano," and "ecosystem services" returned 577 studies, but half were experimental in nature. We found that the evaluation of ecosystem services by bats has been mostly conducted in the Neotropical and Palearctic regions. To detect differences across relevant studies, and to explain trends in the study of ecosystem services provided by bats, we performed generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) fitted with a Poisson distribution to analyze potential differences among sampling methods. We identified 409 bat species that provide ecosystem services, 752 insect species consumed by bats and 549 plant species either dispersed or pollinated by bats. Our review summarizes the importance of conserving bat populations and the ecological services they provide, which is especially important during the current pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]