Diversified ecosystems
Chad boasts a diversity of ecosystems, including deserts, savannahs, forests and wetlands. Chad's natural landscapes are breathtaking, with impressive rock formations, stretches of golden sand, winding rivers and dense forests. Each ecosystem is home to a variety of animal and plant species adapted to specific conditions.
The Sahara desert. A large part of northern Chad is covered by the Sahara, characterized by arid conditions, sand dunes, rocky plateaus and drought-adapted vegetation. Despite the aridity, this region is home to a specific fauna adapted to extreme conditions, such as dromedaries, Dorcas gazelles (the smallest Saharan bovidae) and reptiles.
Savannahs. Savannahs occupy much of the central part of the country, characterized by grassy plains, scattered groves of trees and seasonal watercourses. These ecosystems support a diversity of animal species, including antelopes, lions, elephants, giraffes and numerous bird species.
Forests and woodlands. The southern regions of Chad are covered with tropical forests, gallery forests along rivers, mangroves and wooded savannahs. These ecosystems are home to a rich biodiversity, including primates, colorful birds, reptiles and a wide variety of plants.
Wetlands. Chad has several important wetlands, such as Lake Chad and the Lake Fitri complex. These ecosystems are vital habitats for many species of migratory birds, fish and wildlife, and provide important resources for local communities.
Mountain ecosystems. In the far north of Chad lie the Tibesti Mountains, a volcanic mountain range offering spectacular scenery, water sources and a unique biodiversity adapted to high altitudes.
Rich fauna
The country is known for its diverse wildlife, including iconic species such as elephants, lions, giraffes, antelopes, crocodiles and a wide variety of birds. The Zakouma National Park is famous for its population of elephants and other wildlife, and the country, supported by various NGOs, is attempting to create new parks, refuges for many species that have disappeared due to hunting and poaching, such as the 815 km2 Zah Soo Park in south-west Chad, which will be managed by the Noé association, created by the now-famous Frenchman Arnaud Greth, creator of the TV documentary series Les Carnets de Noé. Once rich in biodiversity, this natural territory, classified as a Wildlife Reserve since 1974, has seen a drastic decline in its animal populations, with the disappearance of species such as the lion and the black rhinoceros due to intense poaching. What's more, the lack of effective management and monitoring has led to the degradation of part of the reserve by agriculture and anthropization. In response to this situation, Chad's Ministry of the Environment, Fisheries and Sustainable Development, in collaboration with the NGO Noé and local stakeholders, including local communities, decided to reinforce the protection of the heart of the Binder-Léré Wildlife Reserve by reclassifying it as a National Park.
Rare but diverse vegetation
Pressures on biodiversity
Despite its rich biodiversity, nature in Chad faces threats such as habitat loss due to agricultural expansion, illegal hunting, poaching, deforestation and climate change. These pressures endanger many fragile species and ecosystems.
Conservation and protection. The Chadian government, in collaboration with international organizations and local NGOs, is working to conserve nature and protect biodiversity. Protected areas, nature reserves and conservation initiatives have been set up to preserve endangered species and their habitats.
Importance for local populations. Chad's biodiversity and natural resources are vital to local populations, who depend on these ecosystems for their food, livelihoods and well-being. Sustainable management of natural resources is essential to ensure food security and the economic development of rural communities.
Jewels to protect
Nature and biodiversity in Chad are precious jewels that deserve to be protected and preserved. Faced with environmental challenges such as deforestation, desertification, loss of natural habitats and climate change, it is imperative that effective conservation measures are put in place to ensure the sustainability of these unique ecosystems. Chad's biological diversity, with its exceptional flora and fauna, is not only essential to the local ecological balance, but also contributes to the country's cultural richness and national identity. By protecting nature and preserving biodiversity, Chad is investing in a sustainable future for its people and for the planet as a whole.
