About Us

Welcome to the Indian Ocean Tortoise Alliance!

Welcome to the Indian Ocean Tortoise Alliance (IOTA), an environmental non-profit based in the Seychelles dedicated to the protection and preservation of Aldabra giant tortoises and island ecosystems.

A few centuries ago, islands across the Western Indian Ocean were teeming with a diverse array of tortoises. However, human activities led to the extinction of nearly all giant tortoise species, leaving the Aldabra giant tortoise as the last remaining giant species.

At IOTA, we are committed to rewilding these vacant islands with Aldabra giant tortoises and enhancing conservation efforts for this remarkable species and other regional tortoises in their natural habitats. Our mission thrives on the power of global, regional, and local collaboration, involving governments and communities alike.

We champion the Aldabra giant tortoise as a symbol of the Seychelles and an ambassador for conservation efforts in the region. By raising awareness and driving initiatives, we aim to secure a brighter future for these magnificent creatures.

Join us on our mission to protect and conserve the breathtaking islands of Seychelles and the extraordinary Aldabra giant tortoises. Together, we can make a significant impact on the future of these incredible animals and their habitats.

Executive Team

  • Tom Kaplan

    FOUNDER & CHAIRPERSON

  • Dr Maria Mederick

    VICE-CHAIRPERSON

  • Judith Strashoon

    TREASURER

Project Team

  • Dr Dennis Hansen

    SCIENCE DIRECTOR

  • Rich Baxter, MSc

    DIRECTOR

  • Georgette Savy

    PROJET OFFICER

  • Alan Grant

    IAS PROJECT MANAGER

Executive Board

  • Stuart Salenger

  • Tomas Diagne

  • Dr Chris Jenkins

  • Vance Serchuk

  • Wilna Accouche

  • Mohamed Khashoggi

Previous Team Members

  • Sophie Berlouis

    PROJECT OFFICER

Support Our Mission

Your donation helps protect the Aldabra giant tortoise and preserve the unique biodiversity of the Seychelles.

Our Partners

Seychelles Island Foundation

Visit Seychelles

Green Islands Foundation

Seychelles Society of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

Francois Leguat Reserve

Zoological Museum, UZH

Citizen Engagement Platform

University of Zurich

The Orianne Society

Ministry of Environment Energy and Climate Change

Seychelles Government

Turtle Action Group Seychelles

Island Biodiversity & Conservation Centre

ICUN TFTSG