Search Results (27)

Macroalgae are essential components of marine ecosystems, supporting biodiversity, primary productivity, and the functioning of coastal habitats. In the northeast Atlantic Macaronesian archipelagos (Azores, Madeira, Selvagens, Canary Islands, Cabo Verde), they hold significant ecological and economic value and have recently emerged as key indicators of environmental change. This oceanic region faces increasing pressure from multiple stressors, including climate change, invasive species, habitat degradation, and other anthropogenic impacts, driving shifts in coastal ecosystems and the simplification of structurally complex habitats such as marine forests. To assess the current state of knowledge on Macaronesian macroalgae and identify gaps relevant to conservation and management, we conducted a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines. Our results show strong but uneven foundational knowledge, with the Azores and Canary Islands accounting for roughly 80% of publications. Research is dominated by fundamental studies in ecology and taxonomy, while applied research (e.g., resource exploitation, aquaculture, toxicology, and climate-change impacts) remains limited. Red algae and a few dominant orders (Ceramiales, Fucales, Dictyotales) are well represented, whereas green algae and less conspicuous taxa are understudied. Future research should expand geographic coverage, broaden taxonomic scope using molecular tools, strengthen applied research, standardize monitoring frameworks, and align scientific output with management needs. Full article

Coastal erosion has become a significant problem in the context of global warming and sea level rise. The combination of these factors which, in some cases, produces sedimentary deficit, is causing flooding problems that affect coastal ecosystems such as dune systems. This problem is of particular concern in the context of oceanic islands, where sandy coasts and dune systems are considered to be of significant value. As terminal areas of encapsulated sedimentary systems, sink areas are subject to the downwind effects of current and historical management and uses developed throughout the entire system. The objective of this research is to analyze the evolution of the Sink Zones (they mainly demonstrate behaviors akin to those exhibited by beaches), in various dune systems in Macaronesia, with a particular focus on the Canary Islands (Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, Jandía in Fuerteventura and La Graciosa Island) and Cabo Verde (Costa Fragata-Ponta Preta in Sal Island). A multiscale spatio-temporal approach was employed, utilizing historical and contemporary orthophotos and topographic data (obtained from LiDAR flights with airplanes and photogrammetric flights with drones) to analyze the evolution of the coastline using DSAS software (version 6.0). In the specific instance of the island of La Graciosa, these data were integrated with detailed fieldwork data on wind conditions and sediment characterization. This methodology was utilized to ascertain the morphodynamical response of the aforementioned Sink Zones. The results obtained from the analyses reveal the presence of erosion processes, thus prompting a comprehensive discussion concerning the management and utilization of these natural systems, in addition to the potential impact of climate change. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ants are one of the most abundant animal groups on the planet and have a considerable impact on ecosystems. In the Cabo Verde Archipelago, the study of invertebrates is very scarce and ants are no exception. Methods: In this work we focus on the taxonomic analysis of formicids and study their distribution and the possible presence of invasive species in the Cabo Verde Islands. In addition, the diversity of Cabo Verde ants is compared with that of the closest African coastal countries, Senegal and Mauritania, to study a possible colonization of African ants into the archipelago. For this, we use two molecular markers, cytochrome oxidase I and the wingless gene, to perform phylogenetic analyses and haplotype networks that facilitate identification. Results: Nine taxa were identified, five invasive species, Paratrechina longicornis, Pheidole megacephala, Trichomyrmex destructor, Brachyponera sennaarensis, and Solenopsis globularia, one endemic Monomorium subopacum and three unidentified species of native genera, Monomorium sp., Lepisiota sp. Camponotus sp. Conclusions: Molecular network patterns as well as phylogenetic analyses suggest that ants are widespread throughout the archipelago, a likely consequence of human introductions. Full article

The high genetic variability of HIV-1 and the emergence of transmitted drug resistance (TDR) can impact treatment efficacy. In this study, we investigated the prevalent HIV-1 genotypes and drug-resistance-associated mutations in drug-naïve HIV-1 individuals in Cabo Verde. The study, conducted between 2018 and 2019, included drug-naïve HIV-1 individuals from the São Vicente, Boa Vista, Fogo, and Santiago islands. The HIV-1 pol gene was sequenced using Sanger sequencing. TDR was identified using the Stanford Calibrated Population Resistance tool, and resistance levels to different drugs were interpreted with the Stanford HIV database. The genetic diversity of HIV-1 was determined through phylogenetic analysis, and epidemiological and behavioural data were collected via questionnaires. Of the 73 participants, the majority were male (52.1%). The CRF02_AG recombinant form predominated (41.1%), followed by subtype G (37.0%). The overall prevalence of TDR was 9.6%. Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NRTI) mutations occurred in 2.7% of individuals, while Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor (NNRTI) mutations occurred in 9.6%. The most prevalent mutations were K103N (5.5%) and M184V (2.7%). No protease- or integrase-associated mutations were found. The high levels of resistance to NNRTIs found demonstrate the need for surveillance of resistance mutations to ensure the efficacy and durability of the current therapeutic regimen, which includes Dolutegravir. Full article

This study explores the application of low-cost sensor networks for air quality monitoring in Cabo Verde islands, utilizing Clarity Node-S sensors to measure fine particulate matter with diameters equal to or smaller than 10 µm (PM10) and 2.5 µm (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) gasses, across various locations. The sensors were strategically placed and calibrated to ensure coverage of the whole archipelago and accurate data collection. The results consistently revealed seasonal patterns of dust variation across the archipelago, with concentrations of particulate matter exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) limits in all regions. However, Praia frequently exhibits the highest levels of air pollution, exceeding a 200 µg/m³ daily average, particularly during the dry season. Seasonal variations indicated that pollutants are significantly higher from November to March due to Saharan dust flux (a phenomenon locally know as Bruma Seca). Other cities showed more stable and lower pollutant concentrations. This study highlights the potential of low-cost sensors to provide extensive and real-time air quality data, enabling better environmental assessment and policy formulation. However, the variability in equipment accuracy and the limited geographical coverage remain the main limitations to be overcome. Future research should focus on these issues, and a sensor network integrated with reference methods could be a great asset to enhance data accuracy and improve outcomes of air quality monitoring in the country. Full article

Cerebrocardiovascular diseases represent one of the greatest public health concerns globally. In Cabo Verde, non-communicable diseases, such as cerebrocardiovascular diseases, have become leading causes of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to correlate risk factors with cardiac electrical changes in adult individuals residing on Santiago Island—Cabo Verde. A cross-sectional population-based study using simple random sampling was conducted in 2021 with individuals aged 18 and over, of both sexes, having authorization 35/2021 from the Cabo Verde Ethics Commission. The sample size was calculated based on Santiago Island’s projected population for 2021, considering an estimated prevalence of 50%, a 95% confidence interval, and a standard error of 4%, resulting in a sample of 599 individuals. The data were collected through a questionnaire on risk factors and cerebrocardiovascular diseases, blood pressure measurement, capillary blood glucose evaluation, and a 12-lead electrocardiogram. The study sample was predominantly female (54.8%), with the largest age group being 18–27 years (21%). Among the sample, 9.3% had no risk factors, 27.5% had one risk factor, 36.2% had two risk factors, and 26.9% had three or more risk factors. Of those who underwent electrocardiography, 60.24% showed electrocardiographic changes, with the most prevalent being ventricular repolarization changes, nonspecific repolarization changes, and early repolarization. A relationship was observed between cerebrocardiovascular disease risk factors and the electrocardiographic changes found in the study participants. Full article

Cerebrocardiovascular diseases are a major global public health concern, significantly impacting morbidity, mortality, and posing substantial socio-economic challenges. In Cabo Verde, non-communicable diseases have become the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of risk factors for cerebrocardiovascular diseases and their association with cardiac electrical alterations in adults on Santiago Island, Cabo Verde. A cross-sectional population-based study using simple random sampling was conducted on individuals over 18 years of age. The sample size of 599 was based on Santiago Island’s 2021 population projection. Data collection occurred in October and November 2021, involving questionnaires on risk factors and cerebrocardiovascular diseases; blood pressure assessments; and capillary blood glucose measurements. The sample was predominantly female, with the 18–27 age group being the largest. Key risk factors included physical inactivity (65.1%), BMI ≥ 25 kg/m² (42.6%), hypertension (32.6%), and family history of cerebrocardiovascular diseases (19.9%). Other factors were alcoholism (14.4%), hypercholesterolemia (8.3%), smoking (7.3%), diabetes (4.5%), and hypertriglyceridemia (1.3%). Notably, 9.3% had no risk factors, 27.5% had one, 36.2% had two, and 26.9% had three or more. There is a high prevalence of risk factors for cerebrocardiovascular diseases on Santiago Island, particularly among females. Full article

The Small Island Developing State, Cabo Verde, is one of the most important marine biodiverse hotspots in the North Atlantic. One of its national conservation strategies has been the declaration of protected areas, and currently, the country has 47 declared protected areas and only 26 have been fully implemented. The latest protected area, Baía do Inferno e Monte Angra Natural Park, is the first protected area proposed by a civil initiative, and the local people strongly support the declaration of this protected area. Therefore, this study aims to better understand the mechanisms behind strong local support, explore the lessons learned from this case and how it can help improve the implementation of other protected areas in Cabo Verde. We conducted 7 semi-structured interviews with previously identified community leaders and 480 questionnaires with the general population of the local communities. The results show that 78.6% of the questionnaire respondents chose co-management as the desired management model. We also found that non-governmental organizations and local leaders have played a crucial role in sharing knowledge with local populations and helping them to have a critical and informed view about the future implementation of the protected area. Full article

In the framework of the ESA-NASA Joint Aeolus Tropical Atlantic Campaign (JATAC), the ASKOS experiment was implemented during the summer and autumn of 2021 and 2022. ASKOS comprised roughly 9 weeks of measurements in the Saharan dust outflow towards the North Atlantic, with operations conducted from the Cabo Verde Islands. Through its unprecedented dataset of synergistic measurements in the region, ASKOS will allow for the calibration and validation of the aerosol/cloud product from Aeolus and the preparation of the terrain for EarthCARE cal/val activities. Moreover, ASKOS marks a turning point in our ability to study Saharan dust properties and the processes affecting its atmospheric transport, as well as the link to other components of the Earth’s system, such as the effect of dust particles on cloud formation over the Eastern Atlantic and the effect of large and giant particles on radiation. This is possible through the synergy of diverse observations acquired during the experiment, which include intense 24/7 ground-based aerosol, cloud, wind, and radiation remote sensing measurements, and UAV-based aerosol in situ measurements within the Saharan air layer, up to 5.3 km altitude, offering particle size-distributions up to 40 μm as well as sample collection for mineralogical analysis. We provide an outline of the novel measurements along with the main scientific objectives of ASKOS. The campaign data will be publicly available by September of 2023 through the EVDC portal (ESA Validation Data Center). Full article

Invasive species disrupt relations between endemics and their ecosystem and are an increasing biodiversity conservation problem. The Hemidactylus genus comprises the most successful invasive reptile species, including the worldwide-distributed Hemidactylus mabouia. In this study, we used 12S and ND2 sequences to taxonomically identify and tentatively determine the diversity and origin of these invaders in Cabo Verde while also clarifying this for several Western Indian Ocean (WIO) populations. By comparing our sequences to recently published ones, we showed, for the first time, that Cabo Verde individuals belong to the H. mabouia sensu stricto lineage and that both of its sublineages (a and b) occur there. Both haplotypes are also in Madeira, which indicates a connection between these archipelagos, possibly related to the past Portuguese trading routes. Across the WIO, results clarified the identity of many island and coastal populations, showing that this likely invasive H. mabouia lineage is widespread in the region, including northern Madagascar, with important conservation implications. Colonisation origins were difficult to access due to the wide geographical spread of these haplotypes; thus, several possible scenarios were outlined. The introduction of this species throughout western and eastern Africa may threaten endemic taxa and needs to be closely monitored. Full article

Background: Over the last two decades, many sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have undergone dietary and nutrition transitions fuelled by rapid urbanisation, economic development, and globalisation. The aim of the current study was to examine outcomes of the nutrition transition and the epidemiologic transition in SSA countries in terms of food intake, health, and socioeconomic and development factors. Methods: Food balance sheet data—specifically, per capita energy intake per day and per capita gram intake per day—from the CountrySTAT framework of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) were analysed for major food commodities. Additionally, selected health and development indicators supplied by UNICEF, the WHO and the World Bank were analysed. Results: Four dietary patterns emerged. The diet of the southern African/island cluster (South Africa, Mauritius, Eswatini, Namibia, Cabo Verde, and the outlier Seychelles) resembles a Westernised diet, with median values high on sugar/sweeteners, alcohol, meat, animal fats, eggs, and dairy. On the other hand, the diet of countries in the other three clusters appears to be more traditional, with countries in the desert/semi-arid cluster consuming more cereals and pulses/tree nuts, countries in the tropical coastal cluster consuming more fish and vegetable oils, and countries in the equatorial cluster consuming more starchy roots and fruit and vegetables. The resulting median values of health indicators also indicate a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the southern African/island cluster, whereas stunting and anaemia are higher in the other three clusters. Conclusions: SSA countries are in different stages of the nutrition transition. By superimposing clusters generated using macronutrient intake values on a map of the climatic regions in Africa, one can clearly see the importance of climate on the availability of food and food intake patterns. Climate change presents a great challenge to healthy eating, as the link between climate regions and diets is illustrated. Full article

The use of medicinal plants in a variety of health conditions remains essential for the discovery of new treatments. The present study aimed to investigate the bioactive properties of three native plants from Cabo Verde Islands, namely Artemisia gorgonum Webb, Sideroxylon marginatum (Decne. ex Webb) Cout., and Tamarix senegalensis DC., contributing to the characterization of less-known medicinal plants and their potential benefits for human health. Known compounds, such as kaempferol, quercetin, caffeyolquinic, and apigenin derivatives, among others, were detected in the plant species under study. Overall, all species demonstrated good antioxidant capacity, especially the ethanolic extracts of A. gorgonum (EC50 = 0.149 mg/mL) in TBARS assay. Moreover, the ethanolic extracts of the studied plants showed cytotoxic properties against tumor cells, and again the A. gorgonum extract proved to be the most effective in inhibiting tumor growth, mainly in the CaCO₂ (GI50 = 17.3 μg/mL) and AGS (GI50 = 18.2 μg/mL) cell lines. Only the ethanolic extracts of T. senegalensis and S. marginatum demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity, albeit weak (EC50 = 35 and 43 μg/mL, respectively). The present study contributed to increased knowledge about the bioactive properties of these plants commonly used in traditional medicine, some of which was discussed for the first time, opening new perspectives for their use in a wider range of health conditions, especially in African countries, where access to modern health care is more limited. Full article

Cabo Verde’s biodiversity is threatened by activities that meet human needs. To counteract this, an integration of scientific and indigenous knowledge is required, but no comprehensive list of the useful local plants is available. Thus, in this work, we assess (1) their diversity and phytogeography; (2) the role of geophysical, historical, and socio-economic factors on species distribution and uses; and (3) potentially relevant species for sustainable development. Data were obtained from flora, scientific publications, historical documents, herbarium specimens and field work. Many species were introduced since the 15th century to support settlement and commercial interests. We identified 518 useful taxa, of which 145 are native, 38 endemic and 44 endangered. The number of useful taxa is correlated with altitude and agricultural area, as well as with rural population indicators, but not with total population or socio-economic indicators such as gross domestic product. Native taxa are mostly used for fuelwood, forage and utilitarian purposes. Agrobiodiversity and traditional practices seem crucial to cope with recurrent droughts and ensure food security. Most of the introduced species do not present conservation problems, contrasting with the overuse of some native taxa. The safeguarding of native populations will ensure the sustainable exploitation of these resources and benefit the local economy. Full article

The Macaronesian islands constitute an enormous reservoir of genetic variation of wild carrots (subtribe Daucinae; Apiaceae), including 10 endemic species, but an accurate understanding of the diversification processes within these islands is still lacking. We conducted a review of the morphology, ecology, and conservation status of the Daucinae species and, on the basis of a comprehensive dataset, we estimated the genome size variation for 16 taxa (around 320 samples) occurring in different habitats across the Macaronesian islands in comparison to mainland specimens. Results showed that taxa with larger genomes (e.g., Daucus crinitus: 2.544 pg) were generally found in mainland regions, while the insular endemic taxa from Azores and Cabo Verde have smaller genomes. Melanoselinum decipiens and Monizia edulis, both endemic to Madeira Island, showed intermediate values. Positive correlations were found between mean genome size and some morphological traits (e.g., spiny or winged fruits) and also with habit (herbaceous or woody). Despite the great morphological variation found within the Cabo Verde endemic species, the 2C-values obtained were quite homogeneous between these taxa and the subspecies of Daucus carota, supporting the close relationship among these taxa. Overall, this study improved the global knowledge of DNA content for Macaronesian endemics and shed light into the mechanisms underpinning diversity patterns of wild carrots in the western Mediterranean region. Full article

Free-Living Amoebae (FLA) are widely distributed protozoa, which contain some groups considered as pathogenic microorganisms. These members are able to produce several opportunistic diseases including epithelial disorders, such as keratitis and fatal encephalitis. Even though they have been reported in numerous sources, such as soils, dust and water, there is no legislation related to the presence of these protozoa in soil-related environments worldwide. Therefore, there are no established prevention or disinfection protocols to advise the population regarding FLA infections or eliminate these microorganisms from human-related environments to date. Acanthamoeba spp. are the most common FLA isolated in soil samples, which is also the most common genera found in clinical cases. Thus, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of potentially pathogenic FLA in human-related soil samples of Santiago Island, Cabo Verde. A total of 26 soil samples were seeded in non-nutrient agar plates (2%), incubated at 26 °C, and monitored daily to evaluate the presence of FLA. DNA was extracted from those plates on which there was suspected FLA growth, and PCR amplification of the 18S rRNA gene was carried out. A total of 17 from the 26 analysed samples were positive for FLA, where Acanthamoeba is the most abundant isolated genus (14/17; 82.4%), with the T4 genotype being the most common (13/14; 92.9%), followed by the T5 genotype, A. lenticulata (1/14; 7.1%). Moreover, Vermamoeba vermiformis, Stenamoeba dejonckheerei and Vannella pentlandi were isolated in three other samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of FLA presence in Cape Verde and the first report of V. vermiformis in beach sand worldwide. Full article