Local perceptions of environmental changes in fishing communities of southwest Madagascar

Southwest Madagascar is a region that is significantly impacted upon by climate change. As in a lot of developing countries, the livelihoods of many communities in this region are dependent on fishing. This makes these communities particularly vulnerable to climate-related changes. We conducted a survey in two coastal fishing communities in the Toliara Province, Ambola and Ambotsibotsike. Using a free listing exercise, semi-structured interviews and focus group methods, we documented local perceptions of environmental changes and responses to changes. Results were compared, taking into account the differences in the degree of remoteness, market exposure and religiosity. Time periods that respondents reported as having had a high degree of change were compared to time periods of historical records of cyclones occurring in Toliara Province. Mostly, changes in the environment were said to have started 21-40 years ago. An overlap was observed between time periods when respondents observed changes in their environment and time periods of high magnitude cyclones. Answers relating to the local environment show that both villages identify with a sea culture, but the local ecological knowledge is arguably more accurate in the remote village of Ambola. In Ambotsibotsike God's intervention was predominantly identified as the source/cause of changes in the natural environment. Ambola also displayed a higher proportion of household members who participate in fishing from pirogues (at least one person per household). In both villages, the most reported change was a reduction of sea resources (64,2% of the answers in Ambola and 69.5% in Ambotsibotsike). Villagers' adaptation responses reflected the presence of NGOs in both villages. This influence was particularly strong in Ambola, where the establishment of reserves was found to be a predominant strategy to cope with change (54.8% of the answers). Our study provides additional insights that can be used in relation to the discussion of the role of the market, of religion, and the influence of NGOs on local knowledge. It seeks to contribute to the need to implement sustainable conservation strategies and successful community-based management plans.