Florian DESIGAUX

A multidisciplinary approach to conservation biology: Behavioural ecology and socio-ecology of iguanas in Martinique 

The main goal of this PhD is to improve the knowledge available on the Antillean iguanas (Iguana delicatissima, Iguana iguana and Iguana rhinolopha) in order to increase the conservation measures defined for the Lesser Antillean iguana by the PNA " For the recovery of the Lesser Antillean iguana”. This knowledge is essential for safeguarding the last populations of Lesser Antillean iguanas and requires, for example, to preserve and manage the iguanas habitat in good conditions. The study of behavioral and spatial ecology is a key step for the management of these areas. In this context, I propose (i) to study the habitats used by iguana populations feeding on Martinique (ii) to study the population structure and the distribution of iguana species in relation to the habitat and available resources, and (iii) to identify the intrinsic (morphological, physiological study) and extrinsic (habitat, home range, ...) factors of the three iguana species that affect behavior and dispersal individuals, and which probably leads to hybridization between these species. The results will make it possible to acquire new data and enrich the available knowledge, which is essential for the preservation of the species and necessary before any conservation action.