Churamiti maridadi (Churamiti maridadi)

Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 252537561

Conservation initiative for endangered Churamiti maridadi, Tanzania

Churamiti maridadi is a rare and ecologically significant tree toad endemic to Tanzania. It is the only species within the Churamiti genus, with its name derived from the Swahili words chura (toad/frog), miti (tree), and maridadi (beautiful), reflecting its striking appearance. Despite its uniqueness, C. maridadi faces severe threats primarily due to habitat loss and degradation. Encroachment from plantation workers and subsistence farmers, alongside fuelwood collection and wildfires spreading from lowland areas, have significantly reduced its suitable habitat. Thus, to protect the species and its associated habitats we will undertake the following specific objectives: (i) Protecting and restoring the critical habitat of C. maridadi within Mamiwa-Kisara Forest Reserve to ensure its long-term survival. (ii). Assessing and monitoring population size, distribution, and ecological requirements of C. maridadi to inform effective conservation strategies. (iii) Promoting sustainable land-use practices by raising awareness of the species' ecological importance and providing alternative livelihoods to reduce reliance on forest resource  (iv) Strengthening conservation policies by collaborating with government agencies and organizations to enhance legal protection for C. maridadi and its habitat, and  (v) Building local capacity by training forest rangers and community members in habitat restoration, monitoring, and sustainable conservation practices.