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Kenyon College

Publication Date

Spring 2024

Program Name

Madagascar: Biodiversity and Natural Resource Management

Abstract

While it is important to conserve Madagascar’s unique natural forest environments and the biodiversity they contain, it is also essential that populations reliant on these ecosystems for their income and survival have access to the resources they provide. Sustainable use forests, designated by the IUCN as category VI protected areas, are the solution to meeting both of these conditions. At the same time, it is often the case that the use of forests invites disturbance, which in turn encourages the introduction and establishment of nonnative or invasive plant species. This study examines the degree to which the intensity of use in a sustainable use forest in southeastern Madagascar encourages plant invasions and the relationship between nonnative plant cover and biodiversity. Plots were established in zones exhibiting different degrees of use within the forest, a botanical inventory was conducted, and nonnative plan coverage estimated. Results indicate no relationship between use intensity and nonnative coverage and no relationship between nonnative coverage and species richness. While nonnatives had not infiltrated into forested areas, the heterogeneity of vegetation and large presence of invasive species surrounding the forest could potentially pose future threats in the event of a large-scale disturbance.

Disciplines

Biodiversity | Environmental Indicators and Impact Assessment | Forest Sciences | Sustainability | Weed Science

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