A conservation framework for furcifer chameleons in Madagascar

Christian Randrianantoandro

All of the 72 chameleon species in Madagascar are endemic but only four are considered threatened on the IUCN Red List. Three of the 18 furcifer species are vulnerable to extinction (IUCN Red List) and are the focus of our conservation efforts in 2007/08.

Little is known of the remaining 15 furcifer species although it is clear that many are threatened and at least two may be extinct. The aims of this project are to (1) assess the conservation status of all furcifer species for the IUCN Red List (2) conduct field research on priority species (3) promote chameleon conservation through education of local communities, support for protected area staff, students training and alignment with government objectives.