SEED Madagascar

Project Phelsuma

Supporting the long-term survival of the Endangered Phelsuma antanosy in Sainte Luce, southeastern Madagascar

Phelsuma antanosy is a species of day gecko endemic to the Anosy region of southeastern Madagascar. It is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, due to its highly restricted range and ongoing habitat loss.  

Its population is severely fragmented, with only four known isolated subpopulations remaining. Three of these subpopulations exist within the Sainte Luce littoral forest fragments, while the fourth is in the Ambatotsirongorongo massif, approximately 50 km southwest of Sainte Luce. The species’ decline has been driven primarily by deforestation and habitat fragmentation.

Population estimates conducted by SEED Madagascar’s Conservation Research Programme (SCRP) indicate that the Sainte Luce littoral forest fragment known as S7, supports the largest subpopulation of approximately 3,500 individuals. S7 is designated as a Community Resource Use Zone, but also lies within a proposed ilmenite mining zone and could be cleared as early as 2033. In contrast, only small subpopulations exist in the protected forest fragments S8 and S9. 

To address the species’ restricted distribution, ecological specialisation, and ongoing habitat loss, SEED Madagascar launched Project Phelsuma.

SEED’s Response

Launched in 2024, Project Phelsuma aims to support the long-term survival of Phelsuma antanosy in Sainte Luce through a combination of scientific research, habitat restoration, and community engagement. The project has strengthened ecological understanding of the species while laying the groundwork for targeted conservation interventions. At the same time, it prioritises collaboration with local communities and key actors to ensure sustainable, locally driven conservation outcomes.

Impact (April 2024 - March 2026)

• Ecological, population, and behavioural research conducted across subpopulations in Sainte Luce
• Cross-site data collection carried out in the Ambatotsirongorongo massif
• ≈100 Pandanus longistylus (primary host plant) transplanted to increase habitat availability in the protected S9 forest fragment
• Trial translocation conducted of 11 Phelsuma antanosy from the unprotected S7 fragment to the protected S9 fragment

Next Steps

• Continue surveys across forest fragments S7, S8, and S9 to assess population trends and refine understanding of species distribution
• Conduct targeted behavioural research to better understand activity patterns, habitat use, and ecological requirements
• Use research findings to inform conservation priorities and a long-term protection strategy

Donors

Project Phelsuma was made possible through the generous support of National Geographic, Ernest Kleinwort Charitable Trust, Hertfordshire Zoo, The Winifred Trust, and private donors.