The Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association (RWCA) on September 20 released preliminary findings from the first-ever comprehensive Biodiversity Survey conducted on Rugezi Marsh in Rwanda.
From the preliminary analysis of findings, according to a press release from RWCA, the team of researchers documented 638 different species with 433 new records that had not been previously documented at Rugezi Marsh. Additionally, the team announced the identification of two species that have not previously been recorded in Rwanda: the Hydrilla Leafcutter Moth (Parapoynx diminutalis), and a climbing plant (Zehneria tridactyla).
Overall, RWCA indicated, the Rugezi Biodiversity Survey documented nine species that are globally threatened, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, and 14 Albertine Rift endemic species.
The research effort reveals new insights into the unique ecosystem of Rugezi Marsh, an internationally recognised and Ramsar-protected site, as per the statement.
It added that the research effort marks a significant milestone in Rwanda's conservation efforts, uncovering a wealth of biodiversity and interesting results that showcase the critical importance of this site and its long-term protection.
Rugezi Marsh, covering an area of 6,736 hectares, is a Ramsar-protected site located in the north of Rwanda (in Burera District), renowned for its rich biodiversity and the crucial ecosystem services it provides. The marsh feeds Burera and Ruhondo lakes. The List of Wetlands of International Importance, also known as the Ramsar List, is considered the world's largest network of protected areas.
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In 2023, RWCA mobilised a team of dedicated researchers from Rwanda and East Africa to conduct the extensive biodiversity survey at Rugezi Marsh. The researchers spent several weeks in the field in two phases, with data collected during both the dry and rainy seasons, to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the marsh’s ecological diversity.
The survey covered different biodiversity groups, including plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects.
As the analysis continues, and advanced laboratory techniques involving molecular analysis are applied, more exciting findings are expected, RWCA observed.
"This research establishes a comprehensive baseline that we can now use to monitor the species and the whole ecosystem of Rugezi Marsh. It will inform future monitoring efforts and has revealed valuable information, including new, threatened, and endemic species, which is essential for guiding conservation actions. Protecting Rugezi Marsh depends on this information and is crucial for developing a long-term management plan that ensures its full protection,” said Olivier Nsengimana, the Founder and Executive Director of RWCA.
"We greatly appreciate the collaboration that made this research possible, including support from the Government of Rwanda, National Geographic Society, researchers, local leaders, and most importantly the communities whose local knowledge guided our team throughout the whole research journey. This reinforces the idea that science and conservation cannot succeed without the involvement of local communities,” he observed.
Juliet Kabera, the Director General of Rwanda Environment Management Authority, said: "The Biodiversity Survey conducted by the Rwanda Wildlife Conservation Association has not only enriched our understanding of Rugezi Marsh, but also strengthened the capacity of Rwandan researchers.”
"We are excited about the discoveries made during the survey, which further strengthen our commitment to protecting and conserving Rugezi for generations to come. When nature thrives, so do we and I encourage everyone to be champions for conservation,” she remarked.