Conservation of Endangered Manatees in Mesoamerica
Photo Credit: Robert K. Bonde/USGS
Dr. John Reynolds, Director of Mote's Center for Marine Mammal and Sea Turtle Research, and Dr. Dana Wetzel, Program Manager of Mote's Aquatic Toxicology Program, manage a collaborative program that assesses organic contaminant levels, such as pesticides, oil or industrial chemicals, in endangered manatees in Mesoamerica (Mexico/Belize). Manatee tissues and habitats, effects of contaminant exposures and health risks for manatees are measured through this program.
Caribbean-wide, concern exists about levels and effects of contaminants on marine mammals, other wildlife and people. In this region, manatees are most abundant in waters of Mexico-Belize. Their long lifespan, physiology, inshore habitat and foraging habits make manatees an excellent indicator species of environmental conditions. Few data exist to evaluate this threat, but Mote's pilot study in 2005 through 2008 demonstrated high levels of pesticides and PCBs in manatees from southeastern Mexico. Conservation of manatees and their habitat relies on proper assessment and mitigation.
Funding permitting, this project will analyze biopsies yearly from tagged animals to correlate contaminant level changes with manatee size, reproductive state, body condition and sex over time. Using collaborative, interdisciplinary teams and cutting-edge science, our specific goal and hope is to provide scientific information from multiple disciplines and stakeholders to communities so they can be informed about often-difficult decisions pertaining to statues and changes needed to better maintain healthy environments, wildlife and people.
This study will clarify threats to conservation of this important manatee population, as well as to human and environmental health. It will also provide information to measure future change, develop local knowledge and capabilities, and educate local people and decision makers, in order to further increase public awareness.
By enhancing knowledge and expertise, this project may cause changes that benefit wildlife and people in Mesoamerica, thereby making a difference on this important issue while developing a useful model for conservation efforts in other parts of the world.
Click here if you would like to support this important project. (Please note: When making a donation online, select "where Mote needs it the most" and please write "Manatee Health Studies" in the comment section. Or call 941-388-4441, ext. 309.)
