SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION
The renowned Smithsonian Institution has moved to Gamba, on the shores of Lake Vembo, where it continues its scientific exploration projects in the Gamba protected area complex. In 1966, this complex of 11,320 m² covered the four hunting domains of Iguéla, Ngové-Ndogo, the Ouanga plain and Moukalaba Doudou.
Since 1981, when the sport hunting domains were closed, it has been a protected area that encompasses the Loango Park as far as Panga on the coast and joins the Moukalaba Doudou National Park through the Ouanga plain.
Today, in addition to its research activities to document the many Gabonese species found in the Gamba complex, the Smithsonian is working with Shell and the Gabonese government to educate local people (government, operations staff, and schoolchildren) about the biodiversity of the area and to prevent the deterioration of ecosystems through industrial exploitation of the site.
Guided tours, which are available by appointment only, provide information on the various species present, particularly amphibians, some of which are endemic to the region.
Several specialists also open their laboratories to visitors, explaining the techniques used to assemble the collections and the importance of preserving the fauna and flora of the Gamba complex. The Smithsonian's collection includes the Invertebrate and Vertebrate rooms, a living jungle in miniature where patience is rewarded by viewing amphibians, turtles and snakes. An intelligent way to approach the extraordinary variety of Gamba's fauna.
The scientists present will be happy to tell you some anecdotes from their ancestral or experimental knowledge. For example, you will learn that the chameleon, in addition to its ability to adapt the colour of its skin to that of the environment, has 180° ocular vision, each eye being independent of the other! You will also be interested to learn that there is a fish called the climbing perch, which is able to cover great distances on the ground thanks to its rigid operculum used as a crutch, and that the periophthalmus achieves the same feat in the mangroves by using its pectoral fins..
On the terrace, facing the lake, it is sometimes possible to see hippos and different species of African crocodiles present in the surroundings of Gamba.