Special Reserve, Category VI
Madagascar National Parks (MNP)
3 610 Ha
Province of Toliara; Region of Androy; Districts of Tsihombe and Beloha
Key Biodiversity Area, Important Bird Area (IBA)
The Cap Sainte Marie Special Reserve represents the exceptional biodiversity of southwestern Madagascar. The floristic richness is mainly based on dwarf vegetation with typical elements characteristic of the spiny thicket; some locally endemic species such as Aloe millotti can even be found there. As for fauna, the site is home to the radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata) and the spider tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides), which are endemic and endangered species.
2 species
32 species
1 vulnerable
7 species
2 critically endangered (radiated turtle and spider tortoise), 1 vulnerable
2 species
139 species
127 endemic to Madagascar: 1 critically endangered, 3 endangered, and 1 vulnerable, 9 locally endemic species
Source of water supplying part of the basins in the region and protection of the hydrographic networks irrigating part of the peripheral zone of Cap Sainte Marie. Opportunity for additional income for local communities through tourism.
Like all protected areas managed by MNP, the management of the Cap Sainte Marie Special Reserve is collaboratively co-managed with the participation of members of local communities in conservation and development activities. They are grouped in the CLP (Local Park Committee) and COSAP (Committee for Orientation and Support of Protected Areas).
FAPBM's support for the Cap Sainte Marie Special Reserve began in 2023. For protected areas managed by MNP, FAPBM ensures the security of salary charges and some operating expenses.
