Madagascar Ecology

Of Madagascar’s 10, 000 different plant and animal species, over 90% are exclusive to Madagascar. Humans have damaged the majority of the wildlife in Madagascar and only 18% of the ecosystems remain untouched. Many species have been killed off over the 200 years humans have inhabited Madagascar including the world’s largest birds and many species of lemur. Habitat destruction due to industrialization and hunting remain to be the two greatest causes.

The eastern side of the island produces some of the most beautiful tropical rain forests in the world. The western side produces a much different type of forest in the form of dry thorn forests. The forests of the west have been preserved much better that those on the east coast. This is thought to be due to the high population density on the east coast compared to the relatively low population density on the west coast.

The deforestation occurring more recently is a result mining operations which were discussed on the previous entry. Slash and Burn activity has been present in all types of forest. This is when the land is stripped and burned to create fertile areas for farming. It creates usable soil in a very short period of time and hence its popularity. The side effect is the soil may erode quickly and prove useless. This has been common for many decades and the endangered species feel constant pressure as a result. This eroded soil creates a great amount of runoff into streams and rivers which increases the cloudiness and sediment value.

The World Conservation Society is making a huge attempt to protect these species; including opening an exhibit at the Bronx Zoo to raise awareness of this issue.

I was very pleased to hear that attempts are being made to protect these great forest. However, I was disappointed to hear that so many million acres have already been destroyed. I feel that the destruction of these forests is not necessary because the land does not hold and great benefit over other lands (ie. no precious stones, oil etc.). I was surprised to read the Madagascar actually has deserts on the western coast and to no surprise these lands are greatly untouched. I am optimistic that many species can be saved and because the forests are so rich in species, they will be able to grow back where they once were.