A massive study has been published in the journal Science looking at the immense biodiversity found on the island nation of Madagascar. This is an important study not only for the people of Madagascar but for all of us who are or should be concerned with conservation. Madagascar is an incredibly rich and biodiverse island. It has been separated from other land masses for millions of years resulting in hundreds of species of plants and animals found no where else on earth.

Some statistics: The island covers 587,000 square kilometers. Roughly 13,000 species of plants and vertebrates are found no where else in the world. Ninety percent of the reptiles, amphibians and mammals on the island are found no where else [as an example: lemurs are found no where else and 50% of all chameleon species are found here]. The government of Madagascar is attempting to set aside 10% of the total area of the island as protected habitat in an effort to keep its biodiversity alive.

Why go to so much trouble?

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