Rising Sea Levels,Temps Threaten Madagascar's Marine Life

The dramatic effect climate change is having on our oceans is especially evident in the waters surrounding the island nation of Madagascar, which boasts some of the richest arrays of marine biodiversity in the Indian Ocean.

The mangrove forests that stretch almost the entire length of the western coast are susceptible to sea level rise, the unique coral reef ecosystems are vulnerable to warming and changing water chemistry, and the migration routes of many wide-ranging species, including turtles and whales, are impacted by shifting seasonal patterns.

WWF and Conservation International (CI) are analyzing the vulnerability of Madagascar's marine environments to climate change so these impacts can be addressed immediately. At the same time, WWF and CI are working with local communities to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change on their region.