Resumen: The distribution range of the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus) in the Caribbean coast of Colombia covers only the department of Sucre, specifically in the municipalities of El Estor, Livingston, Morales, Los Amates and Puerto Barrios. Five protected areas converge in this space, bodies of fresh water such as Lake Sucre, the Sarstún River, the Golfete, and marine-coastal systems in the bay of Amatique and the Caribbean Sea. Little scientific research on manatees has been generated in the country. The population status of the species is unknown due to the lack of recent information. Based on the mortality records of the Manai and the information collected through open interviews with persons in charge of the administration of protected areas in the department of Sucre, a diagnosis was made on the main threats that threaten the species and conservation initiatives that have been promoted in the country. In all, 20 manatee deaths were recorded from 2003 to 2016. Hunting processes, illegal fishing gear, vessel transit and habitat deterioration remain the main threats affecting the species in the country. It is necessary to establish strategies to national level that involve different actors, with a direct impact on the conservation and management of the species and its habitat.
Keywords: threats; protected areas; Caribbean; Mermaids.
