Researchers from the Australian National Wildlife Collection are collaborating with Indigenous groups in Australia to save the Tjakuṟa, a culturally significant lizard, from extinction. Working with Aṉangu Rangers and Tjakuṟa Rangers, the team uses traditional knowledge to locate the lizard’s burrows and identify threats. Advanced technology allows them to analyze eDNA in the lizards’ diet and estimate population numbers. By comparing historical DNA with modern specimens, they can track the evolution of Tjakuṟa populations and their response to environmental changes. This research not only benefits the species but also aligns with Indigenous efforts to care for the land and preserve traditional creation stories.
This collaborative approach between science and culture is seen in other parts of the world, where organizations and Indigenous communities are working together to promote environmental conservation and sustainable living. Examples include reforestation efforts in Brazil, restoration of buffalo habitats on tribal lands in the United States, and the promotion of off-grid solar power by Native Renewables.
Dr. David Thuo, leading the Tjakuṟa study, highlights the multiple benefits of the research, including informing Indigenous fire management practices, guiding future translocations of Tjakuṟa populations, and monitoring the species’ health in the desert. The non-invasive methodology used respects the species’ behavior and aligns with Indigenous values. By monitoring Tjakuṟa populations and preserving traditional stories, the research aims to ensure the long-term survival of the lizard and its cultural significance within the local community. Subscribe to our newsletter for more positive news and tips on how to help the planet.
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