Hidden Wonders of Angola’s Remote Plateau
Angola’s Lisima plateau, a rarely explored highland that feeds major African rivers, has become the focus of an exciting new biological survey. Scientists and explorers from Africa and abroad trekked into this isolated area, overcoming muddy roads, broken equipment and the lingering danger of malaria to capture a surprising array of life.
- More than 100 species of dragonflies and damselflies were recorded, eight of which had never been described before.
- New moths, unusual grasshoppers and crickets were found.
- Several striking spiders were discovered, including:
- A spider that glows blue under ultraviolet light.
- Another that mimics a poisonous ladybird beetle, effectively avoiding predators.
Even familiar animals made an appearance, such as the Gaboon adder with its long fangs and a bat parasite that feeds on blood while riding in the fur of bats. These discoveries show how little we know about even well‑known regions, especially after a 27‑year civil war left the area largely untouched by science.
The expedition’s leader, Rob Taylor, praised the challenge of working during the rainy season, noting that the team used delays to explore nearby wetlands and grasslands. He emphasized that protecting these species depends on safeguarding their limited habitats, many of which are vulnerable to mining, agriculture or fire.
Lisima’s remoteness and past conflict have helped preserve its ecosystems, but formal protection is still needed. In 2025, the plateau’s 5.4 million hectares were recognized as a protected area, and last October an international wetland organization declared it of global importance. The goal is to translate the new scientific findings into stronger conservation policies and practical land‑use decisions that keep these habitats intact.
