The Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (IHSM) of the University of Toliara has strengthened its equipment with the acquisition of a new vessel. A speedboat, designed according to the institute’s research standards and needs, was commissioned. Built in Nosy Be, it was transported by truck to Toliara, completing a week-long journey. Its first launch took place last Sunday at the port of Toliara.
Named “Harasoa,” the new speedboat expands the establishment’s fleet, which already includes two small single-engine boats. Its name refers to the reef, as “Hara” means “reef” in the local language.
“The vessel strengthens the IHSM’s resources and will be used for research and practical training, particularly on reefs. It was funded by the Coral Research and Development Accelerator Platform and the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA),” explains Gildas Todinanahary, Director of the IHSM.
The director also highlighted the importance of coral reefs, which are geological structures formed by coral accumulation and serve as essential habitats for marine life. “Coral reefs shelter 25 to 30% of marine life. They serve as feeding, refuge, and breeding grounds for thousands of fish species. 80% of our fishermen fish on the reefs. Furthermore, Madagascar’s marine area is twice as large as its land area. The sea is therefore an important resource and not just a vacation destination!” added Gildas Todinanahary.
The arrival of this new vessel supports a marine conservation initiative that will span three years and focus on large-scale coral reef restoration. Training and practical research will be dedicated to improving the survival of coral larvae. This will include collecting natural coral spawn during full moon episodes, raising millions of young corals in basins installed on the reefs, and planting them by fixing the larvae onto the reefs.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-27 05:39:18 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/recherche-marine-un-bateau-soccupe-des.html