Tortoise panopticon: Linkages between taboos and conservation management in Madagascar

Species-specific taboos are relevant to nature conservation, yet the relation of conservation with such social mechanisms and connected traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) is underexposed in both science practices. This paper researches Mahafaly Antandroy tribes South Southwest Madagascar critically endangered radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata). We develop idea that collection denotes a ‘panoptic’ self-surveilling system, which we call ‘tortoise panopticon’. Theoretically, using performativity as lens, analyse dynamic between practice meaning species-specific taboo systems, context management. Empirically, define potential threats current state site-specific panopticon internal external factors shape it. particularly important light identifying favourable site locations for release. Based on (semi-)structured interviews 282 respondents from 12 communes across 9 sites, identify influential components measure its strength each region determine extent situations exists. Developing connection theory theory, this presents novel model aides assessment dynamics systems.