The HOME (Habitats Of Marine Turtles) project – Madagascar component – aims to better understand how sea turtles use coastal habitats in northwestern Madagascar in order to improve conservation strategies for these threatened species.
Found throughout the Indian Ocean, sea turtles play a vital role in the proper functioning of marine ecosystems. However, their way of life at sea remains largely unknown, which limits the effectiveness of conservation efforts. By studying their movements, diet, health, and habitats, the project will identify the habitats essential to their survival and the pressures they face.
Using innovative and non-invasive methods (photo-identification, satellite tags, miniaturized cameras, genetic and isotopic analyses), the project will:
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improve our understanding of population structure and dynamics,
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understand their dietary needs and key habitats,
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track individual movements, and
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strengthen regional databases for conservation.
The HOME project also relies on strong collaboration between scientific institutions, protected area managers, and local stakeholders. It includes training for Malagasy partners, knowledge sharing, and raising awareness among coastal communities and the general public about the importance of protecting sea turtles. formation des partenaires malgaches, le partage des connaissances et la sensibilisation des communautés côtières et du grand public aux enjeux de protection des tortues marines.
Ce projet est porté conjointement par CEDTM et Cétamada, avec l’appui de This project is jointly led by CEDTM and Cétamada, with support from Kélonia, Madagascar National Parks, WCS Madagascar, and the University of Antananarivo, within the framework of the INTERREG Indian Ocean program., dans le cadre du programme INTERREG Océan Indien.
