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Begonia duruisseaui Scherber. and B. rahajasoae Scherber., both endemic to the Masoala Peninsula in northeast Madagascar, are described and illustrated. They both belong to Begonia L. sect. Erminea A. DC. The former is related to B. tsimihety Humbert from which it differs by its fewer, larger leaves, with finely denticulate margins and a villous inflorescence. The latter is morphologically related to B. bogneri Ziesenh. and the recently described B. ambodiforahensis Scherber. & Duruiss., although it differs from both by the combination of very narrow leaves with clearly demarcated petioles and blades, which are villous and pilose, respectively. Click here to read this article at BioOne.

Scherberich, D. & J.Duruisseau (2016). Begonia henrilaportei Scherber. & J. Duruisseau (Begoniaceae), a new endemic species from the Masoala peninsula, Madagascar. Candollea 71 : 13–18. In English, English and French abstracts. DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.15553/c2016v711a3 Begonia henrilaportei Scherber. & J. Duruisseau, new species of Begoniaceae from the Masoala peninsula, in north-east Madagascar, is described and illustrated. It is provisionally placed in section Nerviplacentaria A. DC. and compared with Begonia lyallii A. DC. with which it presents morphological affinities. It is also compared with Begonia nana L'Her. and Begonia bogneri Ziesenh. with which it has been mistaken in herbarium. A comparative table of characters is provided. The new species differs from these three species by having a caulescent habit with a creeping stem and linear-lanceolate blades with pinnate venation. The diagnostic characters, geographic distribution and a preliminary conservation assessment of the new spec...

Hughes M. 2011. — A new species of fleshy-fruited Begonia (Begoniaceae) from the Masoala Peninsula, Madagascar. Adansonia, ser. 3, 33(1): 81–85.

For people in rural Madagascar, the growth of one's kin group and the joint processes of movement and anchorage in the land are fundamental aspects of a successful life. In this article, I examine the clash between the Malagasy ethos of growth and the canonical conservationist ethos of static equilibrium. I argue that biodiversity conservation on the Masoala peninsula leaves local people with a sense of having been defeated in the purpose of life as they understand it. I further suggest that, in the case of people of slave descent, such defeat reverses the historical process of shedding slave status. [Madagascar, Masoala, conservation, national parks, concepts of growth, slavery]

The results of small mammal inventories at 11 sites ranging from sea level to 1000 m a.s.l. on the Masoala Peninsula in northeastern Madagascar are presented. The Rodentia and Lipotyphla (ex Insectivora) of this peninsula, that contain extensive areas of lowland rainforest and some montane habitat, were previously poorly known. Fifteen endemic (5 rodents and 10 tenrecs) and 2 introduced species [Rattus rattus (Linnaeus, 1758) andSuncus murinus(Linnaeus, 1766)] were recorded. Species diversity in the lowland forests was reduced as typically found in other lowland sites in the eastern humid forest, while that of the lower montane zone was notably low as compared with other nearby large forested areas to the interior of the peninsula. Several ideas are presented to explain this difference, including the peninsula effect.

The ecology of two species of tree-climbing crabs, Malagasya antongilensis (Rathbun, 1905) (Potamonautidae) and Labuanium gracilipes (H. Milne Edwards, 1853) (Sesarmidae), collected from container microhabitats (phytotelmata) in rainforest in the Masoala Peninsula, Madagascar, is described. This is a rare report of a tree-climbing phytotelmic sesarmid crab living in the rainforest canopy, and the first record of a species of true freshwater crab in the canopy, albeit at a relatively low height. The difficult-to-access rainforest canopy surveys were made as part of the Canopy Raft Program (Radeau des Cimes). The occurrence of crabs in water-filled plant containers in rainforest habitats is discussed.

Results of herpetological inventories carried out in the northern portion of Madagascar are outlined, with the aim of depicting the faunai composition of some sites between the forests of the Marojejy‐njanaharibe‐Sud massifs and the Masoala Peninsula, and the NW (Nosy Be, Sahamalaza Peninsula). Biogeographical affinities of this region were discussed on the basis of original and bibliographical information. In particular, the NE is peculiar in terms of biogeo‐graphic characterisation, taking into account the relationships with the eastern rainforest belt, and the distinction with the Sambirano forests. Moreover, for some groups (such as cophyline microhylids, chameleons and skinks) this area proves to be a diversity centre. The main conservation issues are presented, stressing the increase of the existing network of protected areas and the relationships between biodiversity patterns and the needs of local populations in terms of sustainable development.

Bedotia masoala, a new species of Malagasy rainbowfish, is described from the Ankavanana drainage on the eastern slope of the Masoala Peninsula, northeastern Madagascar. The new species is readily distinguished from congeners by a unique blotchy, mottled, or barred lateral pigmentation pattern, and further distinguished from Bedotia marojejy, the only additional Bedotia that lacks a prominent, solid, dark midlateral stripe, by a higher vertebral count, a greater number of scales in lateral series on the flanks, and by the presence of palatine and well–developed endopterygoid tooth patches. Bedotia masoala is endemic to the Ankavanana drainage, an eastward flowing basin of the Masoala Peninsula.

La Morco, G. & Thorstrom, R. 2000. Breeding biology, diet and vocalization of the Helmet Vanga Euryceros prevostii on the Masoala Peninsula, Madagascar. Ostrich 71 (3&4): 400-403. The endemic Helme...

SummaryFrom mid-September 1993 to February 1994 avian species were inventoried at eight sites selected to sample the major biogeographic areas and threatened habitats of Masoala Peninsula of north-eastern Madagascar. The sites ranged from 10 to 1100 m elevation. Three forest types were inventoried: six sites included primary lowland rainforest (0–700 m), one site was characterized as moist montane forest (above 700 m), and one site was classified as littoral forest. Bird species and distribution were sampled using point counts and line transects, tree observations and opportunistic sightings; 85 avian species were detected. Line transects were the most productive technique for number of species detected. Twenty-four detected species were shared by all inventory sites. Six threatened and six near-threatened species were observed with notes on their ecology and behaviour. One endangered species, the Madagascar Serpent-eagle Eutriorchis astur, was first observed along a forest edge and then sighted several times at forest interior sites, suggesting that this secretive endangered raptor is not as rare as previously thought. Another species of indeterminate status, the Madagascar Red Owl Tyto soumagnei, was discovered by two villagers near one inventory site in modified habitat. Several rare and near-threatened species were found to be common throughout Masoala Peninsula: Scaly Ground-roller Brachypteracias squamiger, Short-legged Ground-roller B. leptosomus, Red-breasted Coua Cona serriana, Brown Mesite Mesitornis unicolor, Helmet Vanga Euryceros prcvostii, Bernier's Vanga Oriolia bernieri and Rand's Warbler Randia pseudozosterops; the last was only found along pristine riverine habitat. Three species were detected only at the high elevation montane forest: Grey-crowned Greenbul Phyllastrephus cinereiceps, Forest Rock-thrush Pseudocossyphus sharpei and Madagascar Brush-warbler Nesillas typica. Forest degradation from subsistence agriculture, shifting cultivation and fuelwood collecting threatens natural resources and biodiversity but conservation and development efforts can provide alternatives to meet the needs of the local people.Depuis la moitié du mois de septembre 1993 jusqu'au février 1994, nous avons inventorié la communauté avienne dans huit sites représentant la grande partie des habitats naturels de la Presqu'île de Masoala, Nord-Est de Madagascar. Ces sites ont des altitudes comprises entre 10 et 1100 m. Trois types de forêt ont été inventoriés: six sites de forêt primaire de basse altitude (0–700 m), un site considéré comme forêt humide de montagne (plus de 700 m), et le dernier classé comme for^t littorale. L'échantillonage était fait par point d'écoute et ligne de transect. Certains grands arbres ont été utilisés comme poste d'observation. Quatre-vingts cinq espèces d'oiseaux étaient détectées. Vingt quatre espèces sont communes aux sites inventoriés. Six espèces classées comme menacé et six autres en train de l'être sont observées avec des notes sur leur écologie et comportement. Une espèce en danger, l'Aigle serpentaire Eutriorchis astur, était observée pour la première fois le long d'une bordure forestière et puis vue plusieurs fois en pleine forèt. Ce qui suggère que cette espèce en danger et trèsdiscrète n'est pas très rare comme on a toujours pensé. Une autre espèce de statut indéterminé, l'Effraie de Soumagne Tyto soumagnei était découverte par deux villageois près d'un site d'inventaire dans un habitat dégradé. Quelques espèces rares et en train d'être menacées semblaient communes dans toute la Presqu'île de Masoala: Rollier terrestre écailleux Brachyptcracias squamiger, Rollier terrestre leptosome B. leptosomus, Coua de Serre Couci scrriana, Mésite unicolore Mesitornis unicolor, Eurycère de Prévost Euryceros prevostii, Oriolie de Bernier Oriolia bernieri et la Fauvette de Rand Randia pseudozosterops. Cette dernière se trouve seulement dans les habitats longeant les cours d'eau. Trois espèces sont seulement observées dans une forêt de haute altitude de montagne: Bulbul a tête grise Phyllastrepluis cinereiceps, Merle de roche de forêt Pseudocossyphus sharpei et la Fauvette de Madagascar Nesillas typica. La dégradation forestière causée par le besoin de surface cultivable, la culture itinérante et la collecte de bois de chauffe, menacent les ressources naturelles et la biodiversité du milieu. Seulement, la conservation en parallèle avec des efforts de développement peut fournir une alternative aux besoins de la population locale. Ceci est parmi les objectifs du Projet Masoala; cherchant des alternatives pour la population locale en même temps que la création d'un Pare National qui pourrait protéger une grande partie de bloc forestier de basse altitude de Madagascar, plus de 210.000 hectares.

Little is known about carnivoran ecology and population dynamics in northeastern Madagascar, especially on the little studied Masoala peninsula. This leaves the status of threatened carnivores on the Masoala peninsula poorly understood. Even less is known about the relative taxonomic position and role of domestic, feral, and possible wild cats in Madagascar. Adequate conservation of the Masoala peninsula will remain limited until the status, threats, and roles of felines and native carnivorans in regional system dynamics are documented. Six of the ten carnivoran species belonging to the endemic family Eupleridae, as well as introduced civets, domestic dogs, and cats are known to exist on the peninsula. This paper reports an animal of unknown identity in the Masoala carnivoran assemblage, the fitoaty . Specifically it, (i) reports preliminary observations on the fitoaty collected on the Masoala peninsula, and (ii) describes fitoaty distribution and habits based on local knowledge. Fitoaty appear to have a broad geographic range on the peninsula and to prefer contiguous forests near and within the Masoala National Park. The author tentatively identifies the fitoaty as Felis sp. but extensive carnivoran trapping and genetic testing of the fitoaty are needed to adequately assess the range and identity of this carnivoran and its potential impact on local ecosystems.

The Madagascar Buzzard (Buteo brachypterus) is reported to be common in wooded habitats throughout Madagascar (Langrand and Meyburg 1984). Information on the biology and ecology of the species is limited to brief accounts of individuals and nesting pairs (Rand 1936, Benson et al. 1976, Thiollay and Meyburg 1981, Langrand and Meyburg 1984, Berkelman 1995). The goal of this study was to describe the nest reoccupancy, breeding density, nest dispersion, breeding season, productivity, nesting success, and breeding behavior of the Madagascar Buzzard in the rain forest of the Masoala Peninsula.

On a beach on the remote Masoala peninsula in the northeast corner of Madagascar, a group of men and boys watch a motorboat disgorge a party of visiting conservation planners. The visitors come from Europe, North America, South America and Asia, and their purpose is to meet the people who live on the boundaries of the Masoala National Park. The village lies behind the thick-trunked trees that line the white sand shore in a band of cultivated fields growing rice, coffee, vanilla and cinnamon. Beyond the fields lies the forest, just a kilometre or so away. From the boat, the forest forms a vast sweep of green reaching unbroken from the beach to the distant watershed 1200 m above the sea, lit by bright sunshine and framed in dark grey-black rain clouds.

Masoala Rainforest is an 11 000 m2 greenhouse ecosystem within Zurich Zoo, Switzerland, inaugurated in July 2003. This exhibit acts as an ambassador for the Masoala National Park, Madagascar, with the aim of displaying an authentic representation of Masoala National Park and thus raising awareness of the threatened animal and plant biodiversity of Madagascar, and especially the Masoala Peninsula. As of November 2006, the artificial Masoala Rainforest ecosystem harbours 478 plant, six mammal, 22 bird, seven reptile, two amphibian, three fish and more than 50 invertebrate species. All animals are free roaming within the ecosystem and the sound integration of a conservation initiative into the concept of the exhibit created a tremendous response in the national as well as international press, resulting in a substantial increase in visitor numbers. In this paper, we present Zoo Zurich's experience after 3 years, of running a complex artificial ecosystem.

The new species Impatiens otto-eleonorae Eb.Fischer & Rahelivolona from Masoala Peninsula is described. It is related to Impatiens hildebrandtii Baill. from Eastern Central Madagascar, but differs in the larger habit and flowers. The types of Impatiens firmula Baker and I. hildebrandtii are reinvestigated. Both taxa, previously considered to be identical, represent different species, and Impatiens hildebrandtii is reinstated here.

I examined the food habits of the Madagascar Buzzard (Buteo brachypterus) in the rain forest of the Masoala Peninsula in northeastern Madagascar from August to December 1991 and from September 1992 to January 1993. I located Madagascar Buzzard nests and recorded prey deliveries from observation blinds that I constructed near each nest. I recorded 318 prey deliveries, including 74 (23.3%) birds, 65 (20.4%) lizards other than chameleons, 35 (11.0%) chameleons, 19 (6.0%) snakes, 14 (4.4%) frogs, 9 (2.8%) arthropods, 7 (2.2%) rats, and 95 (29.9%) unidentified. I was able to assign 123 (38.7%) of the prey deliveries to size classes based on 5-cm body length intervals. This study was the first record of the occurrence of birds in the diet of the Madagascar Buzzard. The results are consistent with other accounts in suggesting that the Madagascar Buzzard is a dietary generalist.

Two groups of red ruffed lemurs (Varecia variegata rubra) were observed in primary rain forest, on the Masoala peninsula, for 11 months between December 1990 and November 1991. Quantitative observations on ranging behavior, diet, activity, group composition and group dispersion were collected on 8 focal animals. The two study groups, consisting of 5 and 6 members, used home ranges of 23.3 and 25.8ha, respectively. The daily average path length for the main study group was 436m. In the cool-wet season, both groups fragmented into subgroups that used different core areas. The position of core areas within the home range changed from month to month. Red ruffed lemurs were mainly frugivorous (73.9%) and supplemented their diet with leaves (20.9%) and flowers (5.3%). During the study period, focal animals fed on 42 tree species showing a marked preference for only 7 of these species (72.5% of total feeding observations). Home range size and use were related to the location of large fruit trees.

Phaner furcifer is found throughout the west of Madagascar, to the north of the Onilahy and Fiherenana rivers. In the east of the island, however, we have located it only in the region of Hiaraka in the Masoala peninsula. In the north, we have recorded its presence at an altitude of over 1000 m, near the forest station of Roussettes in the Montagne d’Ambre. The animals from the north and east are rather larger than those found in the west and should probably be regarded as constituting a distinct subspecies. The climatic and environmental ranges encompassed by the various populations of P. furcifer are thus so great that it is difficult to understand why the species is not found in areas such as Ankarafantsika in the western forest region, or why, in the east, its distribution extends no further south than Cape Masoala. On the other hand, its absence from the south of the island is presumably related to the great aridity of that region.

The first suggestion that there might be an undescribed palm belonging to tribe Cocoeae in Madagascar came in 1984 from Dr M. E. Darian, a palm enthusiast from Vista, California. Dr Darian had made frequent trips to Madagascar to collect palm seeds to grow in his garden in California, being helped while in the north east of the island by Dominic Halleux and Gerard Jean. It was clear from the tantalising fragments of palms brought back by Darian, that there were several unusual undescribed palms in Madagascar, but only in one instance was material sufficiently representative for description (Dransfield & Uhl 1984). One of the curiosities shown to Natalie Uhl and myself was a palm endocarp, collected by Gerard Jean and given to Darian, said to be from the 'Forest Coconut', a tall palm with the habit of a coconut. The endocarp, extremely thick and heavy, resembled strongly the endocarp of members of subtribe Attaleinae (Dransfield & Uhl 1986). This however was all that could be deduced from the empty dead endocarp. Obviously it would be a high priority to find and make proper collections of the 'Forest Coconut'. When David Cooke (Kew) and I, accompanied by P. P. Lowry II and J. H. Beach (Missouri Botanical Garden) and Armand Rakotozafy (Parc de Tsimbazaza) arrived in Maroantsetra in October 1986 for field work on the Masoala Peninsula, the possibility of finding the 'Forest Coconut' was uppermost in our minds. However, all the localities known by Gerard Jean seemed to be at least three days' walk away. The most accessible locality was said to be near the village of Ambanizana, but even this locality would require a trek into the interior of the Peninsula for three days followed by three days for the return. In Ambanizana itself, however, we were very fortunate to meet villagers who had seen the palm nearer to the coast, in a much more accessible area near to Antalavia, and it was this locality that Gerard Jean, two villagers, David Cooke and I reached on 17 October 1986. Two mature individuals of the palm were discovered and we were fortunate that inflorescences and mature fruit were available, so that the affinities of this remarkable palm can be clarified. The Malagasy name for the palm is 'voanio-ala', literally 'forest coconut'; this vernacular name is taken up here as Voanioala for the Latin name of a most distinctive new genus. In doing so I follow the long-established precedent of latinizing Malagasy names (e.g. the palm genera Vonitra, Raphia, Marojejya, Masoala and Antongilia). The specific epithet chosen recognizes the person who must be regarded as the real 'discoverer' of the palm.