Madagascar Whaleshark Project Foundation.

Why this project is so important:

Global and Local

Madagascar is a global hotspot for whale sharks. More than 500 individuals have been identified since 2015. At up to 21 meters in length, whale sharks are the largest of all sharks, but they are also very sensitive to environmental influences. Fishing also poses a major threat. They are therefore listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List.

Only through knowledge and education can these animals be preserved. The protection of the whale shark population around Madagascar therefore also has a significant impact on the protection of this endangered species in general.

Sharks in their natural environment

Stella and her team’s main scientific focus is initially on gaining a better understanding of the occurrence, population structure and whereabouts of the animals, as well as their habitat. Only through this knowledge can effective protection be achieved.

Their lives are precious!

The team’s work also includes interviews with tourists to determine the socio-economic value of a living whale shark. Similar studies, e.g. for whales, have resulted in some enormous sums. This will hopefully provide a better starting position for conservation measures for whale sharks.

Together with the locals

The Madagascar Whale Shark Foundation is also having a significant impact beyond science: the local population is being educated to protect the animals. It is important to raise awareness of the unique nature and importance of these animals among adults, but also among children, so that everyone can help to ensure that the whale sharks in Nosy Be remain and are protected. This is no easy task for the inhabitants of an economically weak country and an island that has been overrun by tourism, especially in recent years.

Why is your support so important?

Due to the special importance of the population and the versatility of the project, the limiting factor is mainly the financing of personnel or research materials such as tags. Your support helps to further expand the project and enable important work to protect sharks.