Technical meeting for the presentation of the results of the data collection mission in the Androy, Anosy and Atsimo Andrefana regions, as part of the development of the national strategy for the conservation of terrestrial turtles, in particular Astrochelys radiata and Pyxis arachnoides

January 29, 2026

The data collection mission carried out from July 22 to August 10, 2025 in the regions of Anosy, Androy and Atsimo-Andrefana constitutes a decisive step in the development of a national strategy for the conservation of terrestrial turtles in Madagascar, in particular Astrochelys radiata and Pyxis arachnoides.

Endemic and classified as critically endangered, Malagasy tortoises face persistent threats: poaching, organized international trafficking, accelerated degradation of habitats and massive collection of juveniles, to which is added a strong socio-cultural dimension.

The mission, conducted using a participatory approach, made it possible to consult key stakeholders, evaluate current initiatives and identify the main gaps.

Faced with complex and interconnected threats, the mission recommends an integrated and multisectoral approach, based on strengthening institutional coordination, sustainable community involvement, scientific support and modernization of the fight against trafficking.