Madagascar

Collection of Ravenea rivularis, an important threatened palm of Madagascar

Madagascar is known by conservationists as one of the richest countries in the world in terms of biodiversity and endemism. Of approximately 10,000 higher plant species, about 80% are thought to be endemic to the island. The value of this flora, both to the local peoples and the global community, is potentially immense. Despite its importance, the flora is under serious threat. Over 80% of the island has already been stripped of its native vegetation cover and is now species-poor grassland subject to erosion.

Celebrating SNGF 20th anniversary, 2006

The Silo National des Graines Forestières (SNGF), which incorporates Madagascar's seed bank, have been fully fledged partners of the MSB project since September 2000, when an Access and Benefit Sharing Agreement was signed with RBG Kew. During the first five years, the collecting team has been operating effectively, collecting more than 100 new species for the project each year, including many threatened and endemic ones. SNGF, with the help of the MSB project, has upgraded its facilities to enable it to hold the seeds of national wild species of Madagascar. In addition, the project has supported the PhD of Guy Rakotondranony, previous director of SNGF, defended at Antananarivo University in November 2004. His work on Ravenea rivularis is helping the conservation, management and sustainable use of this species in Madagascar. Part of the project collections are being used for re-introduction and planting programmes in Madagascar. SNGF is currently setting up its seed research collaboration programme on palm and other important species of Madagascar.

Related links:

Independent article 'Kew agrees to safeguard wild plants from three African nations'