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Makay, the last Eden in flames

The first international scientific expedition in the Makay mountain range in south-west Madagascar confirms the urgency of the implementation of conservation measures. Organized by the Naturevolution association, it has brought together adozen researchers from several institutes and universities and Malagasy researchers. Accompanied by climbers and cavers, scientists have gained access to the most remote and highly inaccessible areas, to collect samples.

This wealth of expertise resulted in an extremely rich first exploration and the scientific results have exceeded expectations: more than 300 different plant species collected, including several new indigenous species. A first inventory of biodiversity has been compiled by biologists. Many zoological observations were made and ichthyologists have caught a little fish named Pachypanchax, absolutely unexpected in this region. As for archaeology, dozens of burial sites and two caves with rock paintings were discovered.
 
A lost paradise
 
Unfortunately, this unique paradise will not survive long. In recent decades, man has already burned almost all the forests in the Makay. The scientific team believes that there are only a few years of survival left for most of the ecosystems they visited. Bush fires are the principal scourge and nothing can be preserved if emergency measures to halt this phenomenon are not taken. Preserving natural habitats is one of the greatest environmental challenges of the 21st century. The conservation of Makay’s natural resources is the ultimate goal of the Naturevolution association. Getting Protected Area status and the ensuing development program for the Makay will very much depend on the results of this vital expedition and the scientific recommendations.
 

For more information and support the association for the Makay’s preservation: