DFGFI in RWANDA

Biodiversity Research in the Virungas

Although study of the mountain gorillas has always been the main focus of our scientific work in Rwanda, we are now able to expand our work to include much more of the flora and fauna that occupy the forests with the gorillas. Most of this research is being conducted by local conservationists under our auspices, including students from the National University of Rwanda, some of whom we have hired after graduation to continue their work.

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Some of the current areas we are studying include:

Golden Monkey Research

Golden monkeys are a unique species endemic to the Albertine Rift area whose only confirmed presence is in the Virungas and in a remnant of one other forest area (Gishwati). Rwandan scientist Deogratias Tuyisingize, now on our staff to coordinate this research, recently completed his university studies at Karisoke, in which he took a detailed look at the behaviors of this distinctive and endangered monkey, including their home range, their basic social structure, their main foods, and their main activities.

Ornithology Research

The Albertine Rift is also home to a number of rare endemic birds. Our work in this area was started by Claudien Nsabagasani, who completed his university studies at Karisoke on the Grauer's rush warbler, a little-known bird that lives in highland swamps in this region. He is now on staff at Karisoke to coordinate and expand our research in ornithology.

Botany Research

The study of the many varieties of plants that make up the habitat for gorillas and other endemic animals is of critical importance to the conservation of the area and scientifically. We now have various botany projects underway, including collection of plant species information and creation of a photo database, and identification of plants used as food by gorillas and golden monkeys. Researcher Aimable Nsanzurwimo, who conducted his university dissertation on the ecology of bamboo in the Volcanoes National Park, serves as coordinator of these field research activities. Studies conducted by other recent university students include gorillas eating medicinal plants, crop raiding, and aquatic ecosystems.

Amphibian Research

Research is in the works in partnership with Zoo Atlanta to study important aspects of amphibian and reptile research and conservation in the region's national parks. Tests are currently underway for the presence of chytrid fungus.

Environmental Economics Research

Study of human activities is also important to conservation, in many ways. Currently underway is a study of tourist behavior and attitudes toward conservation, in relation to observing the groups of gorillas designated for tourism by the Rwandan office of tourism and national parks (ORTPN).

Conservationists of the Future at Karisoke

Our staff at Karisoke supervise the undergraduate thesis studies of science students from the National University of Rwanda each year. Five students successfully completed their studies in 2006, with several now continuing their work at Karisoke as staff members.