Protect the Caribbean Manatee
Working together to ensure a healthy future for the Caribbean manatee.
The Wider Caribbean region is home to one of the most ecologically important and culturally significant marine mammals—the Greater Caribbean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus). These gentle, herbivorous giants rely on a mosaic of shallow coastal waters, rivers, freshwater springs, estuaries, and seagrass beds for their survival and reproduction. However, despite their ecological role and cultural symbolism, manatees across the region are experiencing alarming declines.
The threats facing manatee populations are severe, complex, and growing. Habitat loss, boat collisions, entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, and illegal hunting are compounded by the impacts of climate change—such as rising sea levels, loss of freshwater sources, increased storm activity, and changing salinity patterns. These stressors have led to fragmented and genetically eroding populations, with some national assessments listing manatees as critically endangered.
Efforts to conserve manatees in the region are challenged by insufficient financial resources, knowledge gaps, and the transboundary nature of manatee habitats. Fragmented conservation responses, coupled with varying national capacities, languages, political systems, and cultural contexts, further hinder progress.
Formation of the WCMA
In response to these challenges, the Wider Caribbean Manatee Alliance (WCMA) was established to unite researchers, conservationists, governments, and communities across the region in a common mission: to protect and recover the Greater Caribbean manatee and its coastal habitats.
The Alliance was officially launched during its inaugural workshop held from February 26–28, 2025, in the Dominican Republic, co-hosted by the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute and FUNDEMAR. This landmark event brought together 32 participants from 17 countries and 27 institutions, representing aquariums, NGOs, universities, and government agencies across the region.
Our Mission
To coordinate regional efforts for the conservation and recovery of the Greater Caribbean manatee by supporting research, monitoring, information sharing, education, and sustainable management of key habitats, while building national and regional capacities to ensure effective action across the Wider Caribbean.
Our Vision
A thriving and interconnected manatee population across the Wider Caribbean, sustained by effective conservation, regional collaboration, and community engagement.
By 2040, manatees will coexist harmoniously with local communities, their key habitats will be protected, and their ecological, cultural, and economic significance will be recognized and valued across the region.
Documentary
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They Need Your Help!
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