[ad_1]
Madagascar has lost about half of its natural forest since the 1950s, and now the country has started a major reforestation effort. But even though rainforests, which coalesce and store carbon dioxide, play an important role in the fight against climate change, planting trees is not enough.
Consideration for animals
Therefore, researchers from SLU, the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, now want to develop a method for forest restoration together with local stakeholders that also takes into account the opportunities for wild animals to use these forests. Lemurs, bats, and birds are considered very important to the function of the forest, as they spread seeds.
“If we only focus on sequestering as much carbon as possible, there is a risk that only a few fast-growing tree species will be planted. This will result in biodiversity being depleted and the forest not meeting the needs of the population. local, “he added. says Sheila Holmes, researchers with the SLU Department of Game, Fish and Environment, according to the SLU site.
Conditions in the environment
The plan is for researchers to map which animals are found in the areas being reforested and in nearby natural forests. In this way, it is hoped to be able to see what environmental conditions attract animals and thus be able to create the same conditions in reforested areas.
“This will help restore the crucial role of animals as seed spreaders in these forests and increase the ability of the forests to survive in the future,” says Sheila Holmes.
Johanna Engman / TT
[ad_2]
