‘Biggest ever’ butterfly survey to begin in Madagascar
Harilefitra Ratovo-Andrianarisoa checks the charaxes net for butterflies.
Chester Zoo and Malagasy conservationists are to collaborate on the ‘biggest ever’ butterfly survey in Madagascar.
The team will unite to create the first ever comprehensive butterfly ID guide to Malagasy species, boosting protection for fragile species.
Chester Zoo has been working with research and reforestation group Madagasikara Voakajy, as well as butterfly experts from the University of Antananarivo. Together they will undertake the first project of its kind to explore the forests of the Mangabe protected area.
The team have been using tent-like charaxes traps, baited with rotting fruit, which lure in butterflies to be photographed for identification. During their first catch-and-release butterfly counts, researchers confirmed the presence of 61 species and collected data on their life cycles.
These butterflies are then released back to the forest unharmed.
They are currently using an informal guide sheet to identify some Malagasy species, as well as a guidebook to South African butterflies. However these guides are not comprehensive, and some of the butterflies will be unique to the island.
The team has already identified several species, such as the Madagascan striped swordtail (Graphium evombar) and the teardrop swallowtail (Papilio epiphorbas).
The data confirms that butterflies thrive in established forest. They are less frequently found in newly replanted forest and are more sparse and less diverse where the forest has been stripped back.
Pierre Razafindraibe, research leader in Mangabe, said: "Mangabe is revealing more than we ever imagined. In just two short fieldwork sessions, our butterfly list grew from around 47 species to over 60. Maybe there could be more.
“With the University of Antananarivo, and with Chester Zoo’s support, we will return to uncover what else this extraordinary forest is hiding. The real discovery may still be ahead of us."
As well as cataloguing the range of butterfly biodiversity, the survey will also mean researchers can evaluate the effectiveness of conservation efforts. The long term study will take place alongside reforestation work, capturing habitat changes and training entomologists.
Imogen Newens-Hill, invertebrate keeper at Chester Zoo, said: “Madagascar has been hit by extensive deforestation, and many people in economically challenged communities turn to illegally taking butterflies from the wild to pin and sell them. They aren’t doing this to deliberately harm these species. It’s because they are following traditions and trying to feed their families.
“Through the butterfly count, we are already having conversations with local people about more sustainable alternatives like ecotourism, which is great.”
Image © Madagasikara Voakajy
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