Biocenosis is a Centro de Educación Ambiental’s six-monthly publication (January-June/July-December) from Universidad Estatal a Distancia de Costa Rica (UNED), which has been edited since 1979. Currently, the magazine has the ISSN: 1659-4991 for its online version and the ISSN: 0250-6963 for its printed version, a format that is used only for the publication of extraordinary numbers. San José, Costa Rica. De la rotonda la Betania 500 m este, carretera a Sabanilla, Mercedes de Montes de Oca. Teléfono: +506 2527-2000 Contacto: revistabiocenosis@uned.ac.cr The scientific magazine´s purpose is to contribute with the process from awareness to taking action through environmental education. This one is addressed to educators, high school students and environmental managers. A relevant characteristic is to publish articles written on simple language without losing scientific accuracy which has positioned the magazine as a paper that contributes to disclose scientific information available for general public.
Universidad Estatal a Distancia, Costa Rica Rica
Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Artificial Intelligence and Environmental Education: Opportunities, Challenges, and New Ways of Learning in the 21st Century
The global environmental crisis poses one of the greatest contemporary challenges for humanity and requires profound transformations in educational systems. At the same time, artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as one of the most influential technologies of the 21st century, with the potential to reshape teaching and learning processes. This essay analyzes the relationship between environmental education and AI, highlighting the opportunities, risks, and perspectives. It concludes that, if applied ethically and with a sustainability- oriented approach, AI can strengthen environmental education by improving access to information, personalizing learning, simulating environmental phenomena, and supporting data-driven decision-making. Nevertheless, it warns of the need to consider its ecological impact, ethical implications, and technological equity so as to ensure truly sustainable education.
Educational Campaign about Bird-Window Collisions through Social Media (Facebook) in Costa Rica
Bird-window collisions cause the death of millions of birds worldwide. This article describes the process of diagnosis, design, development, and response analysis of an educational campaign on bird-window collisions carried out through the Facebook group of the Costa Rican Ornithological Association (AOCR). Beliefs about how to respond when finding a bird injured after hitting a window were identified, and based on the comments, eight educational objectives were defined. The educational campaign consisted of 24 posts and was conducted at the end of 2024. To evaluate the campaign, the engagement rate of each post was calculated, and the comments per post were analyzed. It was concluded that members of the AOCR Facebook group hold both accurate and inaccurate beliefs about how to act in the event of a bird colliding with a window, and that some of the recommended actions may worsen the condition of an injured bird. Campaign messages aimed at debunking misconceptions, and disseminating and promoting effective methods to reduce collisions showed higher engagement rates among group members. The use of social media is recommended for disseminating environmental messages due to its wide reach, lack of economic cost and the possibility of measuring both the reach and the engagement rate of posts, as well as analyzing readers’ comments.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Post-consumer Waste Managementat at the Carlos Manuel Vicente Castro Technical Professional High School: Contribution from the University Community Service Project TC-749 Regenera
In Costa Rica, each citizen generates an average of 0.73 kilograms of waste per day, equivalent to 266 kilograms of garbage per year. In the Brunca Region, approximately 145 million tons of waste are discarded annually; however, only 4 % of the waste is reused (Quesada, 2025). In the canton of Golfito (Puntarenas, Costa Rica), this issue poses significant risks to public health, the environment, and economic and social development. The study takes place at the Carlos Manuel Vicente Castro Technical Professional High School (Golfito, Costa Rica). The objective of the research is to propose sustainable strategies from an environmental education perspective using a comprehensive approach aimed at strengthening post-consumer waste management and promoting a culture of sustainability, through the contribution of the University Community Service Project TC-749 Regenera. A mixed-methods approach was implemented, predominantly qualitative, with a descriptive scope. An instrument was designed and applied to analyze the habits, knowledge, and perceptions of students, as well as teaching and administrative staff, regarding post-consumer waste management. The results highlight the need to implement coordinated and participatory strategies to consolidate integrated waste management, as well as to promote responsible consumption practices.
Ghost Crab (Ocypode quadrata) and Fiddler Crab (Uca thayeri): Bioindicators of Coastal Erosion at Puerto Vargas Beach, Limón, Costa Rica
Sandy beaches are dynamic ecosystems that host a high level of biodiversity. Species such as the ghost crab (Ocypode quadrata) and the fiddler crab (Uca thayeri) inhabit these environments and play key roles in the stability and functioning of coastal ecosystems. This study analyzed the diversity, abundance, and distribution of these species at Puerto Vargas Beach, Limón, Costa Rica so as to assess their relationship with coastal erosion. A total of 144 transects were conducted, comparing sites with and without erosive processes. Environmental variables such as temperature, salinity, pH, slope, and beach width were measured. The results indicate that the abundance of these crustaceans is significantly higher in eroded sectors (p = 0.03), where factors such as slope (p = 0.003), temperature (p = 0.01), and the reduction in beach width (p = 0.02) act as modulators of their spatial distribution. It is concluded that, although erosion alters coastal morphodynamics, these species exhibit niche specialization that allows them to exploit new microhabitats. The research highlights the vulnerability of these bioindicators to the loss of thermal refuges caused by the retreat of the coastal forest. It also emphasizes the urgency of integrating the monitoring of benthic fauna—referring to organisms that inhabit coastal bottoms and sediments— into management and climate adaptation strategies for protected areas in the South Caribbean.
Copyright (c) 2026 Max Laguna Cruz, Lilliana Piedra Castro https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Teaching Guide on Water Use and Access as a Common Good for Secondary School Teachers
Present a teaching guide aimed at secondary school teachers, focused on addressing water as a common good from the perspective of Education for Sustainable Development. The aim is to strengthen teachers’ skills and knowledge in innovation and instructional strategies, so they can respond to their students’ realities and local contexts, such as the limited and conditional access to potable water in the community of Los Ángeles de Pital (San Carlos, Alajuela, Costa Rica. The proposal integrates participatory methodologies, situated learning and community engagement, organized into five sessions that address conceptual, ecological and social dimensions of water resources. Critical reflection on the use, access, and management of water is promoted through strategies such as body mapping, water footprint analysis, and dialogue with local stakeholders. The guide is presented in an accessible format that allows for adaptation to different educational contexts, promoting pedagogical mediation, and the development of environmental awareness.
Soil Pigments: An Educational Methodology to Understand Soil through Art
This article presents an innovative educational methodology centered on the use of natural pigments derived from clays to produce watercolors, with the aim of facilitating a comprehensive understanding of soil as a complex and dynamic system. The proposal integrates scientific, pedagogical, and aesthetic components through a multidisciplinary approach and is applied in both formal and informal educational contexts, promoting meaningful learning based on direct experience. Through workshops conducted in universities, libraries, and environmental fairs, fundamental concepts of soil science—such as soil texture, mineralogical composition, and soil color—are introduced using artistic techniques that allow for the visual representation of soil properties. The methodology encourages the participation of students and the general public, fostering conscious observation of the environment and the appropriation of soil-related knowledge through creativity. The processes of soil collection and treatment, watercolor formulation, and educational implementation strategies are described in detail. In addition, qualitative results obtained through participant observation and direct feedback are analyzed. Findings show increased motivation, improved retention of key concepts, and a strengthened perception of soil as a vital resource. This proposal offers a replicable model for environmental education and soil conservation.
Records and Distribution of Mustelids in the Northern Huetar Region, Costa Rica, Using Camera Trapping, Surveys, and Citizen Science
This study assessed the presence and distribution of mustelids in the Huetar Norte Region of Costa Rica using a combined methodological approach that included camera trapping on farms registered in the Fondo de Biodiversidad Sostenible (FBS, Sustainable Biodiversity Fund), surveys to the landowners, and analysis of citizen science records from iNaturalist (2008–2025). Camera traps installed between September and November 2025 confirmed the presence of Eira barbara (tayra) in two private farms. On the other hand, iNaturalist data indicated that Lontra annectens (neotropical river otter) is the most frequently reported species in the region, while Galictis vittata (greater grison) shows a low observation frequency. Local surveys also suggested the possible presence of Neogale frenata (long-tailed weasel), although it was not recorded through camera trapping or on the digital platform. Overall, the results highlight the value of private farms enrolled in the FBS and participatory monitoring as strategies for documenting and conserving mustelids in the Huetar Norte Region, particularly in tropical productive landscapes.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Environmental education and citizen science experience in water quality analysis
This study describes an environmental education experience carried out in Rocha, Uruguay, focused on water quality analysis as an integrating axis for scientific and environmental content. The initiative was developed by faculty from the Centro Universitario Regional del Este (CURE) in collaboration with the city’s three public high schools, involving students aged 14 to 16. The proposal was structured in three sessions: theoretical training and sampling techniques, experimental laboratory work and results analysis, collective reflection, and learning evaluation. A mixed methodology was applied, combining diagnostic and final assessment tools with standardized kits for the determination of physicochemical and microbiological parameters. The results showed significant improvements in students’ knowledge and interest in environmental topics, as well as the identification of varying levels of contamination in local water sources, which prompted spaces for critical discussion. In a second phase, a group of students participated as cofacilitators in a session for future teachers, consolidating their acquired knowledge. This experience highlights the value of contextualized and collaborative pedagogical approaches to promote meaningful learning, strengthen interinstitutional links, and foster the construction of environmental citizenship.
UNED network: strengthening student commitment, leadership, and sustainability in the territories
The UNED network initiative, promoted by the Rector’s Office of the Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED – State University for Distance Learning) in Costa Rica, aims to establish interactive spaces that strengthen student commitment and leadership across the various regions where UNED operates. The project focuses on creating collaborative nodes linked to the university’s regional centers, facilitating information exchange and skill development in research, entrepreneurship, environmental management, and soft skills. Through a participatory and multidisciplinary approach, Interconecta UNED (Uned network) seeks to empower students by providing them with tools to generate a positive impact in their communities, foster environmental sustainability, and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly those related to quality education, reduced inequalities and climate action.
Cigarette butts: more than waste, a toxic cellulose acetate residue
Cigarette butts are a common urban waste with a serious environmental impact due to their toxicity and slow breakdown. This essay reviews collection and recycling strategies, including clean-up campaigns, specialized bins, and chemical and physical processing for reusable materials. Their application in construction and biofuels is explored, along with the need for public policies and cross-sector cooperation. The proper use of cigarette butts reduces pollution and supports sustainable urban waste practices.
Copyright (c) 2025 Jose Manuel Espinoza González https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Queen of the Night: the Beautiful and Dangerous Brugmansia × candida (Persoon)
Brugmansia × candida (Persoon), belonging to the Solanaceae family and known in Costa Rica as queen of the night, is an evergreen ornamental shrub that can grow up to six meters. In addition to its decorative use, it is commonly planted as a living fence in coffee plantations, pastures, and around houses, displaying showy flowers in white, yellow, or pink hues. This species contains tropane alkaloids - mainly scopolamine, hyoscyamine, and atropine -spread throughout the plant, with the highest concentrations found in the flowers and leaves, making it potentially toxic. The correct botanical identification of this species is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of poisoning cases, which are attended by the National Poison Center of Costa Rica, located in the National Children’s Hospital. Given its toxicity and the attraction its flowers and fragrance exert on children, it is crucial to promote education and precaution in handling this plant to prevent possible poisoning.
Environmental perception of young volunteers in coastal conservation: The case of beach cleanups on the Veracruz Riviera
The metropolitan area of Veracruz–Boca del Río and Alvarado, in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, has undergone environmental changes due to human activities. This study analyzed the subjective perception of young volunteers regarding beach cleanup activities on the Veracruz Riviera. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using structured and open interviews to characterize the participants - comprising 40 volunteers and three environmental leaders - and to explore their perceptions of beach cleaning and its impact on local communities. Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed using the QDA Miner LT software. The results showed that the age group with the highest representation was 31 to 40 years, and that women were the most active participants in the cleanup campaigns. The most common solid waste was plastic. The study concludes that beach cleanup strategies foster a greater commitment to environmental issues, although they are still in the early stages. Future research lines are proposed to examine the role of Veracruz women in environmental action and education.
Assessment of seabird richness and seasonality on the seamounts of Cocos Submarine Volcanic Ridge: analysis along routes of research and ecotourism
Seabirds play a critical role in oceanic ecosystems, yet they remain one of the least studied groups in the Tropical Eastern Pacific, particularly in Costa Rica. This study analyzed the richness and seasonality of seabirds associated with the submarine seamounts of the Cocos Submarine Volcanic Ridge, through systematic observations conducted in 182 surveys between 2020 and 2025 during nine expeditions following research and ecotourism routes to Cocos Island. A total of 31 species belonging to eight families were recorded, with Laridae, Hydrobatidae, and Procellariidae being the most represented. The most frequently detected species were Sula sula, Sula brewsteri and Ardenna pacifica. Nine species are breeding residents, twenty are migratory, and two are accidental; additionally, six species are listed under some threat category according to the IUCN. The results highlight the role of seamounts as key habitats and aggregation and transit points for oceanic birds of diverse origins and emphasize the value of scientific ecotourism as a monitoring tool. This study provides a baseline for future marine conservation programs and promotes the integration of seabirds as bioindicators or focal elements in the management of the Tropical Eastern Pacific.
Incorporating genetic criteria into effective ecological restoration
The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of incorporating genetic diversity into ecological restoration and to provide practical recommendations for its effective application. An analysis of the current scientific literature was conducted, including case studies of restoration projects in various degraded terrestrial ecosystems. The review focuses on genetic criteria applied to the selection of plant material, seed provenance, local adaptation, and gene flow, as well as the use of modern genomic tools to support decision-making. The results indicate that considering these criteria enhances the viability, resilience, and functionality of restored populations, and that strategies such as broad seed collection, the use of mixed provenance, and the integration of genetic markers contribute significantly to the success of projects. It is concluded that ecological restoration requires combining genetic criteria with ecological, environmental and social factors, while implementing long-term monitoring and evaluation to ensure sustainable, functional, and adaptable ecosystems in the face of future challenges.
Hummingbird–plant interactions in high-mountain gardens: a case study at Paraíso Quetzal Lodge and finca Doña Blanca (Los Santos, Costa Rica, 2024)
Hummingbird–plant interactions were assessed in two high‐mountain gardens in Los Santos, Costa Rica (Paraíso Quetzal Lodge and finca Doña Blanca; 2,650–2,700 m) in April–June 2024 using standardized plot observations (10-min windows with morning/ afternoon repetitions). Seven hummingbird species were recorded, and garden floristic composition was characterized. Visitation concentrated on a reduced set of nectar-rich, morphologically compatible plants—primarily Streptosolen jamesonii, Stachytarpheta mutabilis, Fuchsia spp., and Myrcianthes storki, while several ornamentals showed marginal or no interaction. Proximity of perches (shrubs/trees) and vertical stratification were associated with longer stays and returns of the birds, which explains differences between a consolidated and an emerging garden. These patterns allow the following design guidelines: 2–3 core species with sustained flowering, one “node plant,” nearby perches, short distances between nectar “islands” and perches, dense blocks, and staggered phenological management (an agricultural strategy that involves scheduling and spreading the stages of flowering, fruiting, or harvesting of a plant over time). The findings provide an operational basis to strengthen hummingbirds conservation and local birdwatching in high-mountain settings.
Impact of the Sustainable Homes Category of the Blue Flag Ecological Program on the Environmental Practices of Participating Families Supported by the Local CITTED Committee, 2019–2022
The study analyzes the impact of the Sustainable Households category of the Blue Flag Ecological Program (PBAE) on the environmental practices of participating families, supported by the local committee of the Center for Research, Technological Transfer and Education for Development (CITTED), during the 2019-2022 period. This research is based on a survey conducted with 24 participating families and in-depth interviews. The results show an improvement in knowledge about environmental practices and the implementation of sustainable actions, such as efficient electricity use, water conservation, waste separation and the reduction of fossil fuel consumption. Likewise, a high family commitment to these practices was observed, reaching approximately 88%. However, lack of time and the difficulty of preparing reports were identified as challenges in the process. Additionally, only 41.7% of the total number of registered families (158) participated continuously in the program.
Design of a Non-Formal Environmental Education Program for Community Water Resource Management Aimed at the Irazú Volcano National Park and the rivers Birrís and Páez in Cartago
The northern region of Cartago is characterized by its fertile land and abundant water resources, which benefit the local economy. In this context, a qualitative study was conducted using the participatory action research (PAR) methodology, with the objective of strengthening community-based management for water sustainability through a non-formal environmental education program. This initiative was carried out in collaboration with the staff from the Irazú Volcano National Park, the Commission for the Management of the Birrís and Paez Rivers (COBIRRIS-PAEZ), and the Associations for the Administration of Communal Aqueduct and Sewage Systems (ASADAS). In the first phase, data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and field visits with ASADAS personnel, environmental education staff from the Irazú Volcano National Park (PNVI), and members of the Commission. In the second phase, a questionnaire was applied to guide the actions and collaboratively design the non-formal environmental education program. Notable outcomes included proposals and ideas from the local population for activities related to good environmental practices.
Participatory Biological Monitoring in the Municipal Tiribi River Environmental Park, Cartago, La Unión canton
Costa Rica hosts more than 4% of the world’s biodiversity; however, several fauna groups are highly threatened. The Parque Ambiental Municipal Río Tiribí (PAMRT – Municipal Tiribi River Environmental Park), located in the canton of La Union, Cartago, represents a space with great potential for biodiversity research, conservation and education. The study aimed to document the participatory biological monitoring experience carried out in the PAMRT, focusing on recording fauna species present in the area. For this purpose, four participatory bird counts were conducted in April, June, September and December 2024, covering approximately 4 km of trails within the park and recording observations using the eBird application. Herpetofauna monitoring was carried out through monthly participatory night walks along rivers and streams between May and November 2024, using the intensive search method, and the records were documented in the Epicollect5 application. As a result, seven bird species were identified as being threatened to some degree, as well as seven endemic species to Costa Rica and Panama. In addition, seven amphibian species and three reptile species were recorded, including the endangered Isthmohyla rivularis. In conclusion, citizen participation is a key component in biodiversity research and monitoring in urban spaces and protected areas and it contributes significantly to the development of conservation strategies.
Between Webs and Posters: Science Communication and Spiders (Arachnida: Araneae) in the Leonelo Oviedo Ecological Reserve, San José, Costa Rica
Urban vegetation patches support wildlife conservation; however, they also present a number of challenges. One of the most significant issues is the interaction between wildlife and humans, as it can lead to conflicts and directly affect both parties. The Leonelo Oviedo Ecological Reserve (RELO) is an urban forest patch located on the Rodrigo Facio University Campus of the University of Costa Rica, in San José. It is the habitat of many spider species, some of which have direct interactions with people who use the area and its surroundings. These interactions can be detrimental to the spiders due to various social factors, including the widespread human rejection of these arthropods. To mitigate this issue, a science communication initiative was proposed using infographics placed throughout the Leonelo Oviedo Ecological Reserve. These infographics provided relevant information about the biology, natural history, and behavior of several spider species, selected with the support of an expert and the Protected Areas Network of the University of Costa Rica (RAP). The initiative intended to promote neutral or positive attitudes toward the spiders inhabiting this space. The results showed favorable opinions toward both the spiders and the infographics, highlighting the appeal of their content and design. Therefore, this underscores the importance of implementing conservation efforts that include public science communication.
Herpetological Diversity of La Llana: an Inventory of Amphibians and Reptiles between Chagres and Portobelo National Parks, Colón, Panama
The community of La Llana, located between Chagres and Portobelo National Parks in the Colon Province, Panama, harbors little- studied forests. This study aimed to conduct an inventory of amphibians and reptiles in the forests adjacent to La Llana during the years 2006, 2007, and 2008. Eight 3.5-km transects were established, and daytime surveys were carried out, recording species non-systematically through visual and auditory observations. A total of 22 amphibian species (8 families, 13 genera) and 16 reptile species (7 families, 16 genera) were documented. The absence of records from the family Hylidae is notable, it is attributed to the methodology focused on searching for mammal tracks and setting up camera traps, which did not include scheduled nocturnal surveys, except for auditory records from the camp during the 2008 expeditions. The most abundant species were Colostethus aff. pratti, Oxybelis brevirostris, and Bothrops asper. The presence of endemic and/or threatened species was also recorded, such as Atelopus limosus, Strabomantis bufoniformis, Hemiphractus panamensis, Micrurus clarki, and Lachesis stenophrys. Although subject to improvement through more intensive sampling - including additional habitats and systematic nocturnal surveys -, this inventory significantly contributes to the knowledge of the region’s herpetofauna and highlights the importance of these forests as biodiversity reservoirs.
New Terrestrial Vertebrate Species Reported for Costa Rica in the Last 10 Years. 2013 to 2024 period
Costa Rica has been characterized for periodically presenting species diversity data. However, there is still a need to gather information that facilitates the understanding and analysis of biodiversity to enhance its conservation and management. This Article presents a compilation of newly reported terrestrial vertebrate species, specifically focusing on amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals, between 2013 and October 2024. An extensive bibliographic review was conducted using various sources, including lists of species generated by the Project on Biodiversity in Numbers of the National University of Costa Rica. Among the most relevant findings, there are 78 new species of terrestrial vertebrates classified into 38 families and 60 genera. Of these, 47 records represent range extensions (35 birds, three amphibians, two snakes, and seven mammals), 25 are new species to science (one bird, 15 amphibians, five reptiles, and four mammals), two introduced amphibian species, and the separation of three species was confirmed through morphological and molecular analyses. In terms of distribution, coastal areas such as Puntarenas and Limon show the most records. The specific sites with the newest species are within or very close to Protected Wildlife Areas, such as Coco Island, Tortuguero, and Corcovado.
Analysis of the Current Conservation Status of the Focal Management Elements (fauna) of Tortuguero National Park
Currently, Tortuguero National Park safeguards biotic resources of particular importance for conservation efforts. Among these are the focal management elements (FMEs), which serve as an important tool for species preservation. However, it is necessary to update the data related to the species identified as FMEs and their status over time. This study provides a practical and descriptive overview of the specific characteristics of the FMEs in the area, using a qualitative approach based on the analysis of both primary and secondary information. As a result, 26 focal elements were identified; of these, 50% correspond to species classified as of “least concern,” while some have populations whose status remains unknown. Therefore, it is recommended to reevaluate the FMEs, prioritizing both umbrella species and those with limited distribution ranges or that are endemic to the country or region. Likewise, the FMEs should be updated based on a more thorough analysis of their baseline data; nevertheless, the current number of FMEs is considered appropriate. Finally, it is concluded that the study area has been a significant site for scientific research at least since the 1950s, although its designation as a national park occurred much later.
From Planting to Restoration: Protocol for Native Tree Planting and Enhancing Ecosystem Services in the Context of Climate Adaptation
The proper selection and use of native species in reforestation is essential for the restoration of ecosystems and the enhancement of urban-rural ecosystem services and significantly contributes to climate change adaptation. Since these species are adapted to local conditions, they promote ecosystem biodiversity and resilience, which favors a better response to extreme weather events. Planting native species helps reduce temperatures by creating cooler microclimates that mitigate the heat island effect. Additionally, they improve water infiltration by decreasing the risk of flooding and erosion. These species are also crucial for pollination, as many provide food for pollinators such as bees, which are fundamental for plant reproduction and food production. Incorporating these species is key to enhancing scenic beauty. Their presence in natural and urban environments beautifies the landscape and promotes people’s well-being and quality of life. The use of native species in reforestation not only boosts biodiversity, but also promotes carbon capture, improves air quality and regulates the water cycle; in other words, it preserves natural resources for future generations.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Chemical and biological conditions of the aquatic ecosystem that have an impact on the decomposition dynamics of Cecropia peltata leaf litter, Blanco river, Bagaces: An experience in the academic practice
The opaline color of the Blanco River is a feature that attracts the attention of visitors to the Fortuna de Bagaces area, especially during the dry season. The Blanco River water chemical characteristics are not only responsible for its distinctive color but also for important ecological processes that occur in its aquatic ecosystem. This research aimed to analyze the chemical and biological conditions that influence the decomposition of the “guarumo” (trumpet tree – Cecropia peltata) in the Blanco River. Students from the Fluvial Ecosystems Ecology course at the National University, along with the Ecotourism program of the Fortuna de Bagaces Technical Professional College, conducted an experiment to measure the decomposition time of the leaf litter, under the influence of fluids from the Miravalles Volcano. Four groups of mesh bags with dry leaves were installed, and weekly simples were collected to calculate the decomposition rate and remaining mass. The diversity and abundance of aquatic insects in the samples were also analyzed. In 2018 and 2024, point measurements of physical-chemical parameters of the water and analysis of the chemical components of the brown gel present in the riverbed were carried out. The results showed that the trumpet tree leaf litter could completely degrade in 68 days, with a 30 % loss in the first 20 days, associated with water and sediment conditions containing high levels of silicon, aluminum, sulfur, iron, and calcium.
Public science communication as a tool for the conservation of natural heritage in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, Alajuela, Costa Rica
The present investigation corresponds to a mixed-method approach, which was carried out at the Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge (RNVSMCN), located in Alajuela, Costa Rica (10°52‘37“N 84°45‘47“W). The methodology involved both terrestrial and aquatic surveys within the refuge. Sampling was conducted through on-site observation, and photographs were taken as resources for flora and fauna, focal element selection and graphic material design. The participants in the study were RNVSMCN officials. Social surveying consisted of semi-structured interviews, expert panels, and focal groups; the selection of the target audience was based on social media visitation statistics. A total of 192 visual products were obtained in the informal education category (to be distributed on Facebook and Instagram platforms) comprising a visual compendium called Social Media Content Calendars. The main objective of this proposal was Scientific Outreach on social networks, through visual posters with original photographs aimed at promoting environmental education, focusing on young adults (18-35 years old) not specialized in biological topics, in order to foster ecosystem conservation and biodiversity preservation within the refuge.
Analysis of the tourism potential of a territory: Application of the READI methodology in a natural reserve of Tandil, Buenos Aires, Argentina
The Sierra del Tigre Natural Reserve (RNST), located in Tandil, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina, represents a unique enclave of biodiversity, geodiversity, and cultural heritage in a peri-urban context. This study aims to evaluate the tourism development of the RNST using the READI matrix methodology (Resources, Actors, and Dynamics), specifically adapted for the analysis of the reserve and its surroundings. Through a mixed-methods approach, which includes the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the available resources, the participation of the subjects involved and the territorial dynamics, the strengths and weaknesses of the RNST were identified. The results highlight the valuable natural and cultural heritage of the area, while underscoring the need to diversify the funding sources, improve the tourist infrastructure and strengthen the community participation and territorial leadership. These actions are crucial to ensure a balanced and sustainable tourism development.
Community cohesion in organic waste valorization through composting: The case of the Asentamiento Valle Real Santa Cecilia, La Cruz, Guanacaste
La Cruz, located in the northern Pacific of Costa Rica, is one of the administrative cantons with the lowest social progress index in the country, and Santa Cecilia is one of the less developed districts of this area. Due to the current problem in La Cruz regarding organic waste management, a pilot plan was developed in the Valle Real settlement in Santa Cecilia to reuse organic waste, and generate organic compost, with the aim of subsequently using it in agricultural plantations, and achieving its commercialization in the future. The pilot plan was implemented in 2022 and 2023. A total of three phases were developed: a) initial diagnosis, b) composting, and c) physicochemical analysis of the compost obtained. This pilot plan was launched in a joint effort with the Association of Producers of the Valle Real Settlement, the Guanacaste Campus of the University of Costa Rica and the Municipality of La Cruz. For the development of the pilot plan, this joint work between the municipality and, the academic sector was fundamental, as well as the role of the association and the work of its partners who held key functions. Participatory and ludic methodologies were used to develop the project.