The concept we advance for the survival of these ancient endemic biotas is two-fold: (1) setting aside core conservation areas of representative habitats (land and lake) where a large fraction of the biodiversity occurs, and (2) establishing coastal zone management areas in the remainder, as appropriate to local circumstances. Basic requirements are: (ⅰ) greater specific international interest in the biodiversity values of the ancient lakes and their present jeopardy, such as the interest that has been given to tropical forests. The potential exists for large benefits to biodiversity and evolutionary science but will require more active advocacy by scientists. (ⅱ) recognition of the above fundamental flaws in current approaches to conservation and development; (ⅲ) international willingness to pay for the upkeep of core reserves in the ancient lakes as well as management costs, compensation for local loss of commercial opportunity (e.g. fishing) and support for local research. Schemes to accept responsibility along these lines are already well-explored and operating in some areas of outstanding terrestrial biodiversity in the world (WILSON 2002). In these cases, long-term continuity is provided through funding and technical management by a politically independent multilateral body working along with national scientists and managers.
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