Smithsonian researchers believe that a binational corridor between Panama and Costa Rica could be key to protecting manatees, which are endangered in Central America. The study, developed by the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) and engineers from the Technological University of Panama (UTP), revealed new data on the movements, habitat use, and conservation needs of the endangered Greater Caribbean manatee along the Caribbean coasts of Panama and Costa Rica. Researchers discovered nine manatees traveling between Panama and Costa Rica, covering distances of up to 200 kilometers. These northward movements coincide with periods of higher rainfall, warmer air temperatures, and lower sea levels. The study represents a significant advance in understanding the ecology of the manatee in Central America and highlights the urgent need for coordinated policies and cross-border conservation efforts. To support the long-term conservation of these herbivores, researchers propose the binational corridor, which includes 18 protected areas and four Ramsar sites. "When we presented a Binational Agreement for the Protection of Manatees to the environment ministers of both countries, only Panama showed interest," said Smithsonian scientist Héctor Guzmán, lead author of the research. "With fewer than 2,500 mature individuals remaining and a projected population decline of 20% over the next two generations, this subspecies faces increasing threats due to habitat degradation, collisions with vessels, poaching, and entanglement in fishing nets," the Panama-based scientific body stated.
