Consolidation of a process of research and institutional cohesion for the conservation of the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) in the Costa Rica Caribbean

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Main researcher: Mari Luz Parga (SUBMON)

Description: Among the different areas of conservation research described by Barcelona Zoo, the study of manatee (Trichechus manatus) is included as one of the strategic areas in terms of conservation projects for native wildlife. In particular, the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) is considered especially endangered throughout its area of distribution. Unfortunately, the limited scientific data on distribution and the conservation problems of these populations means that it is particularly difficult to write and implement management and protection plans for the areas where it is found.

Knowing the size of the manatee population in an area of great importance for the species - such as the Costa Rica Caribbean - and its approximate distribution and habitat preferences will provide essential information about a population for which there is almost no data and, indeed, was believed to be extinct in that country at the end of the 1980s. Ignacio Jimenez’s 1998 thesis and subsequent research work at the beginning of new century, meant a significant contribution to the knowledge about this species. However, in recent years there has been significant progress in the area of research.

The first phase of this project started in 2009 has stimulated new interest in conducting research on the manatee. This second phase of the project aims to expand the study area throughout the whole Costa Rica Caribbean area, following the great success of the first phase focused on the Tortuguero National Park. The information from the research will be used to develop effective management plans within the Tortuguero Conservation Areas and Caribbean Friendship.

Sponsors of Research and preservation of the Zoo: