FAPBM is proud to have supported Vahatra Association in publishing The New Natural History of Madagascar. The two volumes were officially presented by Professor Steven Goodman on 3 February at the Malagasy Academy.
The recipes of Madagascar’s exceptional biodiversity
«Separated from Africa’s mainland for tens of millions of years, Madagascar has evolved a breathtaking wealth of biodiversity, becoming home to thousands of species found nowhere else on the planet. The New Natural History of Madagascar provides the most comprehensive, up-to-date synthesis available of this island nation’s priceless biological treasures. Now fully revised and expanded, this beautifully illustrated compendium features contributions by more than 600 globally renowned experts who cover the history of scientific exploration in Madagascar, as well as the island’s geology and soils, climate, forest ecology, human ecology, marine and coastal ecosystems, plants, invertebrates, fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. This invaluable two-volume reference also includes detailed discussions of conservation efforts in Madagascar that showcase several successful protected area programs that can serve as models for threatened ecosystems throughout the world. », excerpt from the summary.
The publication is the result of the work done under the leadership of Professor Steven M. Goodman, with the contribution of eighteen different specialists. It constitutes an extremely valuable tool for policymakers, protected area managers, researchers, or anyone interested in deepening Madagascar’s rich biodiversity.
A valuable asset for advocating Madagascar’s protected areas
As it covers the natural history of Madagascar from its separation from Gondwana until the last species was discovered, it enlightens what Madagascar has lost through time, those under major threats and those that have been kept thanks to the work of experts and local communities. It is estimated that 70% of Madagascar’s unique biodiversity finds a home inside protected areas (FAPBM, 2022).
“We have to put in the money now in our biodiversity because, in five years’ time, it may be too late” advocated Alain Liva Raharijaona, FAPBM Executive Director. FAPBM has started its joint fundraising with Madagascar National Parks to support the conservation, restoration, and local development activities led inside 123 Madagascar’s protected areas network.
