How madagascar’s lizards became the island’s last hope for reforestation

In Madagascar, a surprising hero has emerged in the battle against deforestation: the island's lizards. Traditionally overlooked in ecological studies of seed dispersal, these reptiles are now recognized as crucial participants in endozoochory—the process of spreading seeds via consumption and excretion. As they consume fruits, lizards inadvertently transport seeds across the island, fostering new growth in areas devastated by deforestation. Recent research highlights that lizards, with their extensive range and varied diet, play a pivotal role in maintaining the island's biodiversity. Unlike birds or mammals, lizards can traverse rugged terrains and reach isolated patches of land, effectively planting the seeds of native trees in these hard-to-reach areas. This unique ability makes them indispensable allies in efforts to reforest Madagascar's unique but threatened ecosystems. Conservationists are now focusing on protecting these lizard populations as a natural and cost-effective strategy for reforestation. By encouraging the growth of fruit-bearing plants that lizards favor, conservation programs aim to enhance their seed dispersal activities. This approach not only aids in restoring Madagascar's forests but also preserves the intricate ecological balance that supports countless other species on the island.

— Authored by Next24 Live