Study and conservation of chameleons in the Iaroka Forest, Madagascar
Collect data to strengthen conservation strategies, support research and promote a participatory approach.
Project summary
This project, led by the association Caméléon Center Conservation in partnership with the community association VOI Iaroka, aims to inventory and study the chameleon populations of the Iaroka forest in Madagascar. Covering an area of 3,300 hectares, this dense, humid forest at a medium altitude (700 to 1,200 metres) is located in the east of the country, on the edge of the commune of Andasibe.
The Iaroka forest is at the heart of the Ankeniheny-Zahamena Corridor (CAZ), a protected area of 371,000 hectares that plays a fundamental role in maintaining connectivity between endemic and endangered animal and plant populations. However, this region is subject to strong anthropic pressures, in particular deforestation due to slash-and-burn agriculture, illegal logging and poaching.
No study of the chameleons that inhabit the Iaroka Forest has yet been carried out. This project adopts a rigorous scientific approach, combining field inventories, ecological analyses and the active involvement of local guides to ensure sustainable and participatory conservation.
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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