Protecting the Smallest Inhabitants Where We Operate
In April 2017, Ambatovy reintroduced more than 1,500 golden mantella (Mantella aurantiaca), an endemic and endangered frog species, in the breeding ponds located in the conservation areas surrounding the mine site in partnership with Mitsinjo Association. After being bred at the Toby Sahona Center in Analamazaotra-Andasibe, the frogs were released into their new viable habitats in the Rural Communes of Andasibe, Ambohibary and Morarano. They will be subject to a three- to five-year follow-up monitoring program until a reproductive generation is reached.
For this program, Ambatovy works closely with various national and international partners as well as the Independent Engineers mandated by the project’s lenders. This work contributes to our objective of achieving no net loss, and preferably a net gain, in biodiversity and the environment while strengthening our commitment to being a sustainable and responsible company in Madagascar. The reintroduction of the golden mantella frogs into the wildlife was covered extensively by the local and national media. A real success story for Ambatovy!
The work done during 2018 was dedicated to monitoring the reintroduction of the golden mantella frogs carried out in 2017 to ensure the newly introduced population remains healthy. Lessons learned during the 2017 program will help to inform subsequent breeding and reintroduction cycles. The program will continue for the next five years to ensure a viable population.