Database on the environment of Madagascar: A basic tool for biogeographic research

As part of Programme I of the Madagascar Environmental Action Plan (PAE), the National Environment Office (ONE), with support of the World Bank, considers it indispensible to carry out an appraisal of the results of scientific research conducted on the Malagasy environment. Under the responsibility of the National Center for Environmental Research (CNRE), this work started in 1993 and involved an inventory of publications and research activities in this vast field, both in Madagascar and in research centers throughout the world. A databank was created and will allow a global analysis of the Malagasy environment. Through an approach that is both systematic and geographic, references have been integrated into the databank according to five thematic areas: << natural environment >>, << aquatic environment >> (excluding the marine environment), << air >>, << flora and vegetation >> and << fauna >>. Preliminary results make it possible to identify those areas and specialities which are insufficiently covered by research activities, and underscore the need to update much of the available data. In the area of environmental research in Madagascar, this tool, which is unique and corresponds to the needs of researchers and decision makers, requires constant updating and revision, particularly through the exchange of information.