Humpback whale in nearshore waters off a pristine forest of northern Madagascar. Photo courtesy of Howard Rosenbaum Malagasy conservation workers collecting a skin biopsy for genetic analysis of the population Photo courtesy of Howard Rosenbaum

Humpback Whale Conservation Genetics Project, Madagascar A primary goal of this project is to improve marine conservation research and management within Madagascar. To this end, the Center trains Malagasy conservation biologists and students in field techniques, and supports graduate students to return to the American Museum of Natural History for further study and analysis of project data. The development of a well-trained force of Malagasy conservationists is essential to the long-term success of any conservation program. As with all Center research programs, this humpback project promotes the collection of field data and its effective application to a conservation problem. In this case, our efforts will assist in the design of marine sanctuaries and reserves, the regulation of ecotourism activities, and the integration of local perspectives and concerns regarding whale conservation. 3 of 3