The Government of Bolivia, the Wildlife Conservation Society, and other groups announced today (the International Day of Biological Diversity) the launching of a new scientific expedition into the heart of Madidi National Park—one of the most biodiverse areas in the world—in an effort to describe still unknown species and to showcase the wonders of Bolivia at home and abroad.
The expedition officially begins on June 6th and will last for 18 months as a team of scientists will work to expand existing knowledge on Madidi’s reptiles, amphibians, and fish along a forested pathway descending from the high Andes Mountains into the grasslands.
“This new expedition will give us a better understanding of the full breadth of Madidi’s natural wonders,” said Dr. Robert Wallace of WCS’s Bolivia Program. “At the same time, we intend to share our activities and discoveries with the public in order to raise awareness at the importance of saving such places. What better way to commemorate the International Day of Biological Diversity?”
Specifically, the expedition’s objectives call for an increase in existing information on the park’s mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish across an altitudinal gradient of 5,000 vertical meters (more than 16,000 feet). The researchers expect to add at least 200 species to Madidi’s confirmed list of vertebrates. The expedition will also create a baseline of information for monitoring the effects of factors such as climate change on the park’s ecosystems.
At the same time, the scientists will work to connect the citizens of Bolivia and the world with the natural richness of Madidi National Park via a number of media, including pictures, blogs, videos, a website, and other digital tools.
“Providing a virtual conservation experience for Madidi National Park can create powerful new constituencies for conservation,” said XXX. “Reaching children and young people is especially important, chiefly because it is this demographic that can make a lasting impact on decision makers and advocates.”