@ARTICLE{10.21494/ISTE.OP.2026.1445, 

TITLE={Assessment of ecological breakdown risks at the city-forest interface: A case study of the Antsanitia dry forest, North-Western Madagascar}, 
  
AUTHOR={FLORINE
, Jean Christophe RABEMAROSOA
, Judicaël Bertôt RAZAFINDRATONGA
, Aurélien NDRIANJAFY
, Vololomboahangy RANDRIANJAFY
, Tsimiovalaza Tsimangataka ANDRIAMAMPIANDRA, }, 
	
JOURNAL={Urban Risks}, 
	
VOLUME={10}, 

NUMBER={Issue 1}, 
	
YEAR={2026}, 

URL={https://www.openscience.fr/Assessment-of-ecological-breakdown-risks-at-the-city-forest-interface-A-case}, 
	
DOI={10.21494/ISTE.OP.2026.1445}, 
	
ISSN={2516-1857}, 
	
ABSTRACT={The dry forests of Boeny, in north-western Madagascar, are home to unique biodiversity but are under serious threat from deforestation, bush fires and anthropogenic pressures. This study aims to characterise the flora, avifauna and herpetofauna of the Mandravasarotra and Antsanitia sites and to assess the pressures exerted on these ecosystems. Floristic surveys were carried out using linear transects and quadrats, while direct observations and microhabitat surveys were used to inventory birds and reptiles. A total of 53 plant species were recorded, 81% of which are endemic to Madagascar, mainly distributed among small trees and shrubs. The average density of individuals per hectare varies between sites, with a total basal area of 13.9 m²/ha. The avifauna comprises 13 species, including several forest-dwelling and endemic species, while 10 species of reptiles have been observed, mainly in grassy areas and forest edges. Diversity indices and forest structure indicate high richness but marked fragmentation. Identified anthropogenic pressures include slash-and-burn farming, illegal logging, and extensive grazing, which compromise natural regeneration and habitat connectivity. These results highlight the importance of appropriate conservation measures, combining strict protection, ecological restoration, and the involvement of local communities. This study thus provides a scientific basis for planning the conservation of the dry forests of Boeny and contributes to knowledge of the threatened forest ecosystems of north-western Madagascar.}}