Savanna Program: Towards Sustainable Restoration<\/h2>\n
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The savanna program<\/strong> was initiated with the Biodiversity service of Eramet Comilog<\/a> for the implementation of biodiversity compensation related to the opening of a new mining area in 2020. Initially, studies of the savannas were conducted in Moanda to understand the different associated vegetation formations and the key species that determine the quality and health of these habitats. The characterization then continued on the savannas of the reserve.<\/p>\n Currently, we are testing the impact of ruminants on the savannas and developing new restoration practices that promote symbiosis. These practices could be deployed on a large scale.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> Preventing and combating invasive species<\/p>\n Invasive alien species (IAS) are one of the main drivers of biodiversity loss worldwide. Indeed, human activities have facilitated the introduction and spread of these species in environments they would not naturally colonize.<\/p>\n Laos grass, scientifically known as Chromolaena odorata<\/em>, is an invasive plant that poses a serious ecological problem in the Gabonese savannas. Originally from Central and South America, this species was accidentally introduced to Africa and has rapidly spread due to its ability to colonize various habitats.<\/p>\n Its rapid growth and ability to smother local plants make Laos grass a threat to the biodiversity of the Gabonese savannas. It depletes soil nutrients, disadvantaging native species and disrupting local ecosystems. Combating this invasive plant is essential to preserving the health and diversity of Gabon’s habitats.<\/p>\n In response to the proliferation of Laos grass at a site of interest, the Foundation conducted trials in 2023 and 2024 to control this invasive species. Three methods were tested:<\/p>\n Complete stump removal gives excellent results, although it is labor-intensive. The rainy season is particularly favorable, as it stimulates the growth of local species.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div> Since 2012, the Foundation<\/a> has hosted the Mandrillus project in its reserve, managed in a tripartite manner by the CNRS<\/strong>, the Institute of Evolutionary Sciences of Montpellier<\/strong> (ISEM), and the Interdisciplinary Center for Medical Research of Franceville<\/strong> (CIRMF).<\/p>\n Its goal is to address fundamental questions in evolutionary ecology, anthropology, food ecology, and animal communication; but also to respond to questions of conservation and epidemiology. The central questions of the project concern the evolution of sociality (kin selection, host-parasite relationships).<\/p>\n This project is made possible thanks to a unique context provided by the reserve: among the various groups of mandrills (+300) that roam freely in the Park, some are accustomed to humans, allowing researchers to approach and observe them in their daily lives. A team of researchers is housed at the L\u00e9k\u00e9di Park<\/a> and collects data daily or occasionally.<\/p>\n The Mandrillus project uses advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence<\/strong> and deep neural networks<\/strong>, to analyze thousands of mandrill portraits. This has demonstrated natural selection favoring an increased facial resemblance among members of the paternal family.<\/p>\n In 2024, the project published several articles, notably in the scientific journals iScience<\/em>, Royal Society Open Science<\/em>, and Primates<\/em>, on:<\/p>\n\n
Mandrillus Project: Understanding primates to better protect ecosystems<\/h2>\n
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