The Challenge
Project Overview
Ankarafantsika National Park (ANP), a 135,000 ha protected area in northwestern Madagascar, provides habitat for eight lemur species, including the critically endangered Eulemur mongoz and Propithecus coquereli. Unfortunately, due to ongoing human encroachment and water resource sharing between people, domestic animals, and wildlife, the risk of pathogen spillover between these species is high. The primary goal of this research is to understand how zoonotic pathogens are transmitted among lemurs, domestic animals, and humans within ANP, with a specific focus on waterborne and fecal-oral transmission pathways. The study seeks to address a key knowledge gap by identifying environmental, behavioral, and spatial risk factors that influence pathogen spillover in a multi-species landscape. Furthermore, the research adopts a One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, which is crucial for protecting people, animals, and for sustainable conservation efforts.
Publications
What is the prevalence of zoonotic pathogens associated with lemurs, domestic animals, and humans in rural Madagascar? https://atrium.lib.uoguelph.ca/items/e71c9352-9b52-49f1-b5ab-41403a70a2e6
Area of Research
Funding By
When
Team Members
Dr. Marilyn Sheen
Dr. Travis Steffens
Dr. Heather Murphy
Partners and Collaborators
Dr. Brigitte Raharivololona







