Abstract Introduction Intensified drought in the Mediterranean Basin poses challenges for conventional afforestation. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is a climate‐adaptive solution that restores soil hydrological functions and buffers seedlings against drought in semiarid ecosystems. Objectives This study compared RWH methods (Negarim Microcatchments and crescent bunds) with conventional methods (buror terraces and pit planting) to assess their effects on soil moisture dynamics and the 1‐year survival and growth of Black locust ( Robinia pseudoacacia L.) seedlings, a common afforestation species in semiarid sites. Methods A randomized complete block design with four replications was employed at a degraded site in Izmir, Türkiye. Each block contained 35 × 45 m experimental plots, including 35 Negarims (6 × 6 m), 30 crescent bunds (6 m radius), 11 row‐conventional terraces (45 m × 1.7 m), and 165 standard control pits (30 × 15 × 20 cm). One‐year‐old seedlings were planted at 3 × 3 m spacing. Soil moisture content, seedling survival rate, percent height, and root‐collar diameter (RCD) growth were measured after 1 year. Results RWH treatments, both group and individual, maintained significantly higher soil moisture than terraces and pits, delaying summer moisture depletion and extending the growing season. The RWH treatment group significantly increased seedling survival rate, percent RCD, and height growth. Individually, Negarims provided significantly greater percent RCD and height growth than pit planting. Seedlings at the base of Negarims and crescents had significantly greater percent RCD growth and survival rates than those in other planting positions. Conclusions RWH structures, particularly Negarims, are essential nature‐based solutions for securing drought‐resilient afforestation.
Abstract Introduction The effectiveness of floodplain restoration projects in terms of creating habitat for sensitive fish species like salmonids is well‐studied, but inferences about large‐scale responses are sometimes intractable due to smaller‐scale data collection. Objectives This study considered how sampling design and analytical methods affect the ability to make inferences about fish responses to floodplain restoration across spatial scales. It also compared the descriptive and predictive performance of different modeling approaches to describe habitat use at each scale. Finally, it tested whether fish density‐weighted habitat diversity was associated with reach‐scale fish abundance in restored and reference floodplains. Methods We evaluated physical habitat attributes that strongly correlate with juvenile Chinook Salmon ( Oncorhynchus tshawytscha ) density. Furthermore, density estimates from randomized and non‐randomized sampling were compared using linear and nonlinear models. Modeled density was then used to generate a weighted habitat diversity index. Results Nonlinear models provided a better fit to the data. Data simulation methods showed that non‐randomized sampling gave similar estimates of reach‐scale density as randomized methods. The density‐weighted habitat metric was a correlate of population size across subbasins. Restored floodplains tended to have higher habitat diversity associated with larger reach‐scale populations. Conclusions Non‐randomized, small‐scale sampling methods, combined with strong model fit and data simulation can assess restoration efficacy at larger scales.
Peer‐reviewed journals publish opinions as well as research articles. Opinions can be influential and highly cited. In 2009–2024, Restoration Ecology published 268 opinions (11% of articles), more than four out of five other ecology and conservation journals assessed (only Conservation Biology published more). Restoration Ecology opinions punched above their weight, garnering 14% of all citations. The most‐cited opinions include calls to action, questions about basic tenets, and proposed conceptual syntheses. Such papers raise unique challenges for editors and reviewers, who must evaluate manuscript quality without the typical standard of weighing evidence against conclusions. We posit six questions for editors and reviewers of opinions to consider: (1) Are there unreported conflicts of interest? (2) Is the literature review complete or does it cherry‐pick citations to support the author's narrative? (3) Can the reader build a compelling counterargument that is not sincerely represented? (4) Are citations appropriate for the statements they are purported to support? (5) Does the opinion cite empirical literature, or just other opinions? (6) Is the author misrepresenting dissenting opinion to build themselves up? We hope these questions help reviewers, editors, and readers weigh support for opinion articles and opinionated statements.
Abstract Introduction Herbivore‐mediated ecosystem processes are fundamental to biodiversity, yet have been greatly diminished by megafauna extinctions and replacement of wild herbivores by managed livestock. With increasing restoration ambitions—including the United Nations' (UN) Decade on Ecosystem Restoration and the European Union (EU) Nature Restoration Law—there is a need to set meaningful restoration targets for large mammalian herbivores. Objectives We quantify natural baselines for herbivore biomass and body‐size structure and describe the roles of predation and migration. We also propose a dual framework of baseline‐aligned targets and partial restoration targets to support restoration planning. Methods At a workshop, we identified the biomass, size distribution, predation, and migration of large herbivores as key elements of a natural baseline. We synthesized paleoecological evidence, data from near‐intact ecosystems, and rewilding projects to provide empirical estimates of biomass and size structure. Results Based on paleoecological and near‐intact ecosystems, we tentatively set natural herbivore biomass at approximately 5000–30,000 kg/km 2 , with small herbivores (10–100 kg) contributing approximately 5–10% of total biomass and large and megaherbivores (≥500 kg) approximately 60%. Current European reserves average just 800 kg/km 2 —an order of magnitude lower—and are strongly skewed toward small and mesoherbivores such as deer and wild boar. Conclusions Given current constraints, these targets are unlikely to be fully met. Partial restoration, however, will improve ecosystem processes and likely biodiversity, but knowledge gaps remain, including how deviations from natural baselines affect biodiversity.
Abstract Introduction Human land use intensification and the resulting habitat loss are primary drivers of insect pollinator declines. Habitat restoration offers a promising approach to counteract these declines, yet landscape‐level evaluations of bee responses to restoration and management remain limited. We conducted a 2‐year, landscape‐scale study in Wisconsin, United States, to assess how different intensities of tallgrass prairie restoration and management affect bumble bees ( Bombus spp.). Objectives This study aimed to determine whether (1) bumble bee abundance and diversity increase with active restoration, and (2) outcomes differ between low‐ (seeded only) and moderate‐intensity (seeded and managed with prescribed fire) interventions. Methods Using catch‐and‐release surveys, we measured bumble bee abundance and diversity at 32 sites representing a gradient in restoration intervention: no‐intervention (passive recovery), low‐intervention, and moderate‐intervention. Results Bumble bee abundance and diversity were higher at active restoration sites (low‐ and moderate‐intervention) than at no‐intervention sites. Although both abundance and diversity tended to be greater at moderate than low‐intervention intensities, these differences were not statistically significant. Bumble bee community composition also differed across intervention intensity, driven by shifts in dominant species (e.g. Bombus impatiens and B. griseocollis ). Rarer taxa, including endangered and vulnerable species, occurred only at active restoration sites, with the largest populations at moderate‐intervention sites. Across all sites, bumble bee responses were strongly and positively associated with floral abundance, but not with semi‐natural habitat in the surrounding landscape. Conclusion Our findings demonstrate that active grassland restoration can effectively increase bumble bee abundance and diversity, supporting its value as a conservation practice for pollinators.
Abstract Introduction Plants are not solitary organisms; they host diverse and largely unexplored microbiomes that shape their health, adaptability, and ecosystem roles. Recent environmental sequencing findings have revealed that each plant species harbors a unique fungal assemblage. However, these microorganisms are frequently disregarded in conservation and restoration activities. Objectives This study aimed to explore how fungal assemblages associated with Eriophorum vaginatum , a pioneer keystone species in restored peat bogs, recover after habitat destruction. Methods Using Illumina sequencing, we analyzed fungal ITS2 DNA from living leaves, dead leaves, and dead flowering stems of 50 E. vaginatum tufts in undisturbed and industrially extracted raised bogs, undergoing spontaneous restoration. Results Habitat disturbance significantly altered fungal assemblages in living and dead leaves, explaining up to 17.6% and 14.6% of variability in species composition, respectively. In undisturbed bogs, assemblages of living leaves were consistent across samples and distinct from those in disturbed bogs, suggesting a long‐term association between plants and fungi. However, assemblages in dead leaves of some later‐stage tufts show similarity to those from undisturbed bogs, indicating potential for recovery. Additionally, species composition in dead leaves was influenced by the abundance of neighboring E. vaginatum , which may facilitate the establishment of species characteristic of undisturbed bogs. Conclusions While vegetation can regenerate, the microbial networks underpinning natural ecosystems and adapted to historical conditions cannot be easily restored. Whereas assemblages from dead leaves may partially reestablish, those on living leaves remain distinct, even after roughly two decades of restoration.
Abstract Introduction Wetland restoration is widely used to enhance ecosystem resilience, biodiversity, and climate mitigation. However, restoring hydrology may not lead to rapid vegetation establishment or reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in severely degraded wetlands. Objectives We evaluated six site‐years of vegetation development and carbon dynamics in two wetlands restored in 2021: a reclaimed estuarine tidal marsh in California, U.S.A. (Hill Slough), and an abandoned peat extraction area in Estonia (Ess‐soo). Methods Eddy covariance measurements of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) and methane (CH 4 ) exchange were combined with vegetation surveys, hydrological monitoring, elevation data, and soil and water measurements. Environmental controls on GHG fluxes were assessed using random forest models. Results Vegetation development remained limited at both sites. After four growing seasons, Hill Slough was almost entirely unvegetated, while vegetation at Ess‐soo remained confined mainly to drier areas and did not expand. Spatially unsuitable hydrology, from prolonged inundation to low water tables, likely constrained plant establishment in both sites. Both wetlands remained net carbon sources. For example, 4 years after restoration in 2025, annual net ecosystem CO 2 emissions were 269.7 ± 99.4 g C m −2 yr −1 at Hill Slough and 41.6 ± 29.9 g C m −2 yr −1 at Ess‐soo, while CH 4 emissions reached 17.2 ± 13.4 and 8.9 ± 6.4 g C m −2 yr −1 , respectively. Fluxes were primarily controlled by temperature, water level, radiation, and wind. Conclusion Hydrological restoration alone may be insufficient to promote vegetation recovery in heavily disturbed wetlands, substantially delaying climate mitigation and other restoration goals.
Global degradation of marine and coastal ecosystems driven by climate change, habitat destruction, and other anthropogenic pressures has intensified the need to upscale marine ecosystem restoration (MER). This requires moving beyond single habitats to seascape‐scale approaches that not only achieve scale but facilitate ecological connectivity, ecosystem resilience, and sustainable delivery of ecosystem services. MER remains predominantly habitat specific, with limited opportunity for interhabitat collaboration and addressing cross‐habitat interactions, habitat mosaics, large‐scale ecosystem functionality, and on‐the‐ground delivery. In response to this, the European Chapter of the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER‐Europe) proposes a global Ocean Restoration Supra‐Alliance (ORSA) to convene a community already advancing MER, and to push this to a coordinated seascape approach. To assess the need for an ORSA, two panel discussions were conducted with representatives from global and European MER alliances. Participants expressed unanimous support for establishing an ORSA, affiliated with the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER), to foster cross‐habitat knowledge exchange, strengthen a global community of practice, and enhance science–policy integration. Overall, the findings demonstrate strong practitioner support for an ORSA. Key opportunities identified include pooling technical expertise, standardizing monitoring approaches, advocating collectively for seascape restoration, and closing gaps between science and policy. Anticipated challenges include ensuring inclusive representation, avoiding duplication of existing initiatives, securing sustained funding, and delivering tangible outcomes. By uniting habitat‐specific alliances and advancing seascape‐scale restoration, the proposed ORSA could contribute meaningfully to MER and international biodiversity and climate goals.
Native seed production areas (SPAs) are dedicated to growing plants for the purpose of harvesting seed and play an increasingly important role in seed supply to achieve restoration targets. While there is extensive literature on enhancing pollinators in agricultural contexts, there has been limited research on supporting pollinators in SPAs, despite their potential importance to the quantity and quality of seed produced. Here, we review the literature on the factors that influence the ability of SPAs to support target pollinator species and present a framework to practically guide the design of SPAs for enhancing pollinators and pollination. These factors include landscape context, plant density and arrangement, habitat resources, supplementary resources for pollinators and species choice for companion plants. We also present a stepwise decision‐making process for supporting pollinators that includes identifying visitors to the target plant, the food resources required for potential pollinator species and their degree of specialization, if the activity season of the potential pollinator overlaps with the target plant species, and their nesting requirements. We then provide an example of a plant species in a SPA in Western Australia to illustrate this process. We discuss the limitations of current knowledge and highlight when reasonable inferences can be made to facilitate and enhance SPAs for pollinators. Supporting pollinators in native seed production provides a two‐fold benefit for biodiversity conservation—first through enhancing seed production for ecological restoration, and secondly, by helping to tackle the current global pollinator crisis.
Abstract Introduction Reintroduction for conservation is an important measure to restore populations of vulnerable plant species. However, reintroduction success rates are relatively low. Inoculating reintroduced plants with facilitative microorganisms from native populations may enhance their performance. Objectives This study investigates whether inoculation using soil from conspecific populations can increase early‐phase reintroduction success in two rare plant species, Hypericum pulchrum and Solidago virgaurea . Methods For both species, seedlings from three native donor populations in the Netherlands were propagated in a greenhouse under different inoculation treatments: living soil from one of the three donor sites, sterilized soil from one of the donor sites, and a “no soil inoculum” control. Seedlings and inoculum origins were assigned in a full reciprocal design to test for potential home‐soil effects. After 6 months, individuals were transplanted to suitable reintroduction field sites, one site for each species. Plant performance was monitored for 2 years. Soil microbial communities were assessed at the reintroduction and donor sites and linked to plant performance. Results Plants responded positively to inoculation with living soil. Hypericum pulchrum exhibited higher survival, growth, and flowering, and S. virgaurea had higher flowering percentages in the living inoculum treatment as compared to the two control groups. These responses were independent of inoculum origin. Several bacterial and fungal taxa were transferred through inoculation, and particular taxa were positively associated with plant performance. Conclusion Our study demonstrates that reintroductions are important plant conservation strategies and that implementing soil inoculations in reintroductions can improve survival and performance of reintroduced plants.
Abstract Introduction Ecosystems are complex multi‐trophic systems, and successful restoration needs to consider the mechanisms that underpin the reestablishment of biotic interactions. Critical to supporting this is improved understanding of the ecological processes that govern community assembly. Here, we investigate invertebrate community assembly within restoring calcareous grasslands and broadleaved woodlands, two habitats that represent major targets for restoration efforts. Objectives This study investigates how top‐down and bottom‐up trophic interactions structure arthropod communities in restoring grasslands and woodlands. Methods We surveyed arthropod predators and herbivores across 53 grasslands and 59 woodlands undergoing restoration. Using Structural Equation Modeling, we assessed how community structure responds to local (site age, size, habitat structure, plant species richness, starting conditions, and ongoing management) and landscape drivers (amount of habitat in the surrounding landscape). Results Top‐down processes were stronger drivers of community assembly, with large predatory arthropods shaping species richness in both habitats and abundance in grasslands. Interactions among arthropod guilds were always positive, suggesting facilitation rather than competition. Large predators were less diverse in larger grasslands but more abundant in larger woodlands. Vegetation structure was a critical factor in structuring arthropod communities in both habitats; only in woodlands did landscape composition have an effect. Conclusions Predator‐mediated coexistence plays an underappreciated role in restoration, with vegetation complexity acting as a critical mechanism through which habitats mediate trophic interactions. Recognizing complex community processes like species interactions will improve the effectiveness of management strategies for creating functionally diverse habitats.
The Aquatic warbler ( Acrocephalus paludicola ) is the rarest songbird of continental Europe and a fen mire specialist. The systematic drainage in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries resulted in the loss of almost all fen mires in the breeding range. In our conservative and cautious estimate, we assume that the total historical population was around 1 million singing males. The current population is estimated to have fallen in 2025 to approximately 4200 singing males, that is, less than 0.5% of the past population size. The heavily fragmented breeding sites now comprise a total of just 382 km 2 . Due to increased isolation of breeding sites, today it may be more difficult for Aquatic warblers to cope with temporary catastrophe‐related losses of habitat by performing short‐ and long‐distance movements within the breeding period. Although the causes of decline are understood and effective conservation measures are known, the Aquatic warbler is on the brink of extinction.
Abstract Introduction In coral reef restoration, sexual reproduction is a key methodology to enhance coral population recovery. However, post‐settlement survival remains a major bottleneck, as spat are particularly vulnerable to competition with fouling organisms. The use of substrates with antifouling properties has been proposed as a strategy to reduce fouling pressure and improve early survival. Although multiple substrate materials have been explored globally, the performance of locally sourced alternatives remains poorly evaluated in the Mexican Caribbean. Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different substrate materials on coral larval settlement, post‐settlement survival, and fouling colonization. Methods Through three experiments, we assessed larval settlement and post‐settlement survival of Acropora palmata and Orbicella faveolata , alongside colonization of substrates by fouling organisms. All assessments were conducted using locally available substrate materials: polymer, carbonate apatite, cement‐based, and Chukum. Results Larval settlement on cement‐based and Chukum substrates was similar to the positive control, while other materials showed no positive effect. No substrate improved post‐settlement survival in ex situ conditions compared to the control. After 2 months in the field, only the carbonate apatite substrate showed reduced fouling colonization compared to the control; other materials performed similarly to it. Conclusions Substrate selection is a critical, goal‐dependent decision in coral reef restoration. While none of the evaluated materials enhanced early post‐settlement survival ex situ, carbonate apatite substrate reduced fouling colonization in the field, and the settlement on cement‐based and Chukum materials was equivalent to the control. These findings highlight the need to align substrate choice with specific restoration objectives.
Abstract Introduction Coastal wetlands store higher amounts of organic carbon and sequester it at higher rates in soil relative to terrestrial ecosystems. However, they have been extensively drained, excavated, or modified, often to allow agriculture. Restoring degraded coastal wetlands can be an important contribution to climate change mitigation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and recovering sequestration processes. Objectives We generated continental‐scale estimates of the quantity of abatement (greenhouse gas emission reduction and enhanced sequestration) expected from tidal restoration in Australia. Methods We used continental‐scale datasets for elevation, tidal height and land use, and applied calculations legally required by the Tidal Restoration of Blue Carbon Ecosystems method of the Australian Carbon Credit Unit ( ACCU ) Scheme. We integrated costs of restoration and the long‐term profitability of agricultural land uses to estimate economic feasibility at a range of carbon prices. Results Approximately 276,000 ha of agricultural land could potentially be restored across Australia through tidal introduction. Doing so could generate 58.9 Mt CO 2 ‐e of abatement over 25 years. Land used for grazing and flooded agricultural land accounted for most of the area (91%) and potential abatement (84%). Economic feasibility was sensitive to establishment costs: over half the projected abatement (>30 Mt CO 2 ‐e) was feasible only if establishment costs were low (AUD$100 per ha). With higher establishment costs, 24.8–25.0 Mt CO 2 ‐e was economically feasible only if carbon prices were high ($65–80 per t CO 2 ‐e). Conclusion This study provides an initial continental‐scale estimate of the potential abatement expected from tidal restoration in Australia, along with the jurisdictions and land uses that could generate the highest abatement. The realization of abatement potential through carbon credits will require finding ways to lower costs and achieve higher carbon prices.
Abstract Introduction Ecological restoration is increasingly positioned as a global response to biodiversity loss, yet its metrics rarely account for the transboundary flows of materials, energy, and land that drive degradation. Ecologically unequal exchange (EUE) theory provides a framework for understanding these asymmetric transfers. Objectives I propose integrating EUE into restoration science to reframe restoration as ecological reparation. Drawing on Latin American structuralist and world‐systems scholarship, I outline how this integration transforms restoration metrics and governance. Methods This perspective paper synthesizes ecological economics, world‐systems analysis, and restoration ecology to develop a conceptual framework. I analyze how conventional metrics fail to capture structural injustice and propose alternative biophysical accounting methods. Results Conventional restoration metrics are confined to project boundaries, short monitoring periods, and aggregate ecological outcomes, obscuring the ecological debt accumulated through unequal exchange. Biophysical trade profiles, historically grounded baselines, and multidimensional compensation metrics can align restoration practice with environmental justice. Conclusions Restoration in commodity frontiers should be framed as partial repayment of ecological debt, with funding linked to historical responsibility for resource appropriation and governance centered on affected communities as rightful subjects of reparation.
Abstract Introduction Cheatgrass ( Bromus tectorum) is a challenge to restoration in western North America. It attracts the attention of academic and government research scientists, weed managers, and chemical companies. Attempts to control it cause conflicts among these groups. Objectives All agree that protecting biological diversity and ecosystem services on public lands is a central goal. We demonstrate how this goal has been confounded by a rush to endorse chemical methods that motivated the environmental movement of the 1960s. We also examine whether some indaziflam studies are compromised by non‐disclosure and conflict of interest. Methods We review the literature focused on the Colorado Front Range at the nexus between cheatgrass ecology and the chemical control agent indaziflam. Results Indaziflam is observed to have negative impacts on soil biota, fish, and aquatic invertebrates; to be accompanied by PFAS chemicals; and to induce pesticide resistance. The chemical persists in soils for ~4 years; one of its degradation products (FDAT) is a short‐chain PFAS that can leach into ground and surface waters. Indaziflam has now been observed to be genotoxic. Some studies indicate that it can help certain plants reestablish; others demonstrate harm to non‐target species. Unlike studies in the Great Basin, we located no research implicating cheatgrass as contributing to extreme wildfires in the Colorado Front Range. Conclusion Along the Front Range, field data indicate that cheatgrass does not invade plant communities unless there has been disturbance. Absent control measures, recovery from disturbance includes declining cheatgrass cover. The ecological and human health issues motivate against continued indaziflam applications for cheatgrass control in this region.
Introduction Gorse (Ulex europaeus) is currently one of the most invasive shrub-forming species in the world. Active management has been proposed for its control, including mechanical removal, followed by Gorse suppression by competition through planted forests.Objectives In this study, we evaluate the development of 7-year-old mixed native plantations on Chilo & eacute; Island, North Patagonia, which were established following the removal of Gorse-dominated shrublands, and define which microsite conditions can facilitate stand structural development.Methods For this, we carried out a forest inventory based on 35 circular plots of 200 m2 randomly established in seven stands (total planted area: 86.6 ha).Results Seven years after planting, stands presented dissimilar early structural development in terms of mean diameter at breast height (6.3-8.8 cm), mean height (3.6-5.9 m), mean density (238.7-1512 trees/ha), mean basal area (0.8-9.8 m2/ha), mean volume (2.1-29.2 m3/ha), and mean biomass (3.1-40.1 Mg/ha). Stands also presented abundant natural regeneration and 36 non-planted vascular species. Among site variables, soil phosphorus, litter depth, and Gorse maximum and dominant height showed the strongest positive correlations with stand structural variables, while soil pH was negatively correlated with stand structural development.Conclusions Our results show that in the case of intense Gorse infestations, planting mixed native plantations represents an effective treatment to create continuous forest cover and to facilitate the natural regeneration process. These outcomes were primarily driven by the pioneer species, whose acquisitive functional traits enabled rapid height growth and early canopy closure under the initial high-light conditions.
Abstract Introduction In ecosystem restoration, enrichment planting (EP) seeks to increase the density of desired species that cannot reestablish naturally. However, a comprehensive knowledge of how EP has been adopted and implemented in practice, particularly for restoration purposes, is lacking. Objectives We synthesize global patterns and practices of EP activities and identify key knowledge gaps related to monitoring approaches, ecological outcomes, and drivers of success. Methods We surveyed 74 papers (768 data points) implementing EP activities to restore tropical and subtropical forests in 67 locations across 14 countries. We specifically (1) described the most common techniques and species used, (2) identified outcome variables, and (3) identified factors driving those outcomes. Results EP is primarily used in the Neotropics; there, with a focus more on fostering natural regeneration than improving actively planted stands. Non‐pioneer native trees, including wind and animal‐dispersed species, are mainly introduced as seedlings or saplings. Studies mostly monitor only the survival and growth of introduced species (79%), rarely evaluating diversity (12%) or functions (14%). Monitoring time is usually short‐term (≤5 years, ≥70% of the studies). Conclusions EP has been applied primarily as a context‐specific intervention within naturally regenerating forests, evaluated through a narrow set of indicators and over short time frames, yet its effectiveness appears to depend on strategic implementation.
Coastal tourism is expanding across some of the world's most ecologically valuable yet vulnerable landscapes, particularly blue carbon ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrass meadows. While tourism is frequently framed through a sustainability lens, prevailing models largely emphasize impact reduction rather than active ecological recovery, leaving degraded coastal wetlands in states of chronic decline. This perspective argues the need for a fundamental re-orientation of coastal tourism toward a more restorative action. We propose a conceptual framework by embedding restoration ecology into the novel regenerative tourism principles, structured around four mutually reinforcing components: (1) holistic ecosystem restoration, to rebuild hydrological integrity, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration functions; (2) community resilience, to ensure inclusive governance and long-term custodianship; (3) circular economy, to ensure resource efficiency and low-carbon infrastructure; and (4) visitor engagement and education, that transforms tourists into active contributors to restore ecosystems. Together, these domains reposition tourism from a passive beneficiary of healthy coastlines to a strategic agent of socio-ecological renewal. We contend that aligning tourism development with measurable restoration targets can generate net-positive ecological, social, and economic gains.
Introduction Hydromorphological restoration through structural interventions is commonly used to mitigate urbanization impacts on lotic freshwater systems, but their effects on ecosystem functioning in urban tropical streams remain unexplored.Objectives Here, we aimed at evaluating the short-term effects of the deployment of cross-vanes and riffles in a third-order urban tropical stream on indicators of ecosystem structure (e.g. water quality, hydrodynamics, and substrate diversity) and functioning, including ammonium-nitrogen (N-NH4+$$ \mathrm{N}\hbox{-} {\mathrm{NH}}_4<^>{+} $$) and soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) uptake, as well as whole-stream metabolism.Methods The assessed indicators were compared before (March-December 2022) and after (October 2023-April 2024) restoration, as well as against reference conditions.Results Post-restoration, the stream became significantly wider and shallower, with increased sand and gravel content and enhanced transient storage zone effectiveness. However, gross primary production was reduced, while ecosystem respiration and N-NH4+$$ \mathrm{N}\hbox{-} {\mathrm{NH}}_4<^>{+} $$ and SRP uptake efficiencies remained unchanged. Despite some notable improvements, all ecosystem functions still differed from those observed in reference streams.Conclusions Our results point to challenges in effective structural restoration of larger streams and suggest that reach-scale restoration measures in urban areas should be integrated with upland best management practices to enhance their effectiveness. These insights are critical for informing future structural in-situ restoration projects.
