The chameleons of Maromizaha, Madagascar
A sanctuary in the heart of Madagascar’s forests
This project, led by the Caméléon Center Conservation association in collaboration with GERP (Madagascar Primate Study and Research Group), aims to survey and study the chameleon populations in the Maromizaha Reserve. Covering an area of 2,649 hectares, this rainforested area lies at an altitude ranging from 896 to 1,213 m (west) and from 1,103 to 1,187 m (east). It is situated 140 km east of the capital, Antananarivo.
The Iaroka Forest lies at the heart of the Ankeniheny-Zahamena Corridor (CAZ), a 371,000-hectare protected area that plays a fundamental role in maintaining connectivity between endemic and threatened animal and plant populations. However, this region is under significant human pressure, notably from deforestation due to slash-and-burn agriculture, illegal logging and poaching.
The Maromizaha Forest boasts exceptional biodiversity and is home to numerous endemic species. This project, dedicated to chameleons, aims to promote this wealth through a rigorous scientific approach combining field surveys, ecological analyses and the involvement of local guides in order to develop sustainable and participatory conservation.
Project objectives:
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Inventory of the chameleons of the Iaroka Forest: identification of species, analysis of their distribution and estimation of their density.
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Ecological analysis: characterisation of micro-habitats and environmental parameters influencing the distribution of species.
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Conservation and awareness-raising: development of protection strategies and awareness-raising activities among local communities.
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Population monitoring: implementation of a long-term monitoring programme to evaluate the effectiveness of conservation measures.
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Supporting this project means investing in a scientific, ethical and sustainable approach to biodiversity conservation.