Biomonitoring - Save Rainforest Biodiversity

We would like to conduct baseline data research in a nature reserve in the rainforest of South-West Cameroon. The data will provide information about the biodiversity in this area.

It is urgently needed because all previous data has been lost or is no longer valid due to the political situation. It is unclear if the threatened groups of forest elephants or Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees are still where they were last seen 20 years ago.

The survey is done in consultation with the responsible conservator and involves an expedition of about 6 weeks. Four teams of 3-4 experienced trackers have to walk through a forest area of about 20 km2. They record the occurrence of all species with GPS data and take samples for genetic analysis.

The measure is the basis for detecting population threats in time, in order to then build targeted ways to protect a species.

With the genetic samples, it is possible to obtain more information about the composition of groups, such as sex and age of individuals. The Max Planck Institute has not received any new genetic information from the area in years. The findings would be helpful for primate research and for the future conservation of a particularly species-rich rainforest area. We are dependent on additional donations to finance the equipment and personnel costs.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information.

Project video: https://youtu.be/yy9N_j6Dj74