The National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi has recently become home to two male African Manatees, a rare and vulnerable species. These manatees, which were flown in earlier this year, receive special care and attention at the aquarium. They are fed 20kg of hydroponically grown healthy veggies each day and are closely monitored by veterinarians, trainers, and staff. The manatees are also growing in popularity among visitors to the aquarium.
The National Aquarium has made significant efforts to recreate an environment for the manatees that mimics their natural habitat in Africa. Lewis Cocks, the curator at the aquarium, explained the meticulous care and treatment given to the manatees, emphasizing the role of the facility in advancing conservation efforts for the vulnerable species. Additionally, the aquarium offers exclusive backstage tours for visitors to learn more about the manatees and their conservation.
The African Manatees are categorized as a vulnerable species, with threats to their population including illegal hunting, entrapment in man-made structures, accidental capture in fishing nets, collisions with boats, and habitat loss. The manatees are among the least studied manatee species in the world, making conservation efforts crucial. The National Aquarium is working closely with the African Aquatic Conservation Fund (AACF) NGO to safeguard the species and support research and conservation initiatives.
In collaboration with the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZSCF), the TNA has initiated the ‘African Manatee Conservation Project’ in West Africa. The project aims to address the funding challenges faced by conservation groups in Africa and support research, conservation, and educational outreach initiatives for the manatees in their natural habitats. TNA’s annual contribution of $25,000 generated from its Manatee retail shop will play a vital role in sustaining the project and protecting the manatees.
Since their arrival at the National Aquarium, the experts have been able to learn new insights about the behaviors and characteristics of the manatees. The manatees, aged between 15 to 20 years old, can live up to 40 years. They have distinct personalities, with one being socially interactive and the other shy. The manatees share a tank with other fish species, such as African Arowana and Giraffe Catfish, and have been observed interacting with these species.
The friendly and intelligent nature of the manatees has allowed the experts to train and study them closely. The manatees display intelligence in learning new behaviors and responding to commands. Through ongoing research and observation, the experts at the National Aquarium are gaining valuable insights into the dietary preferences, breathing patterns, and adaptability of the African Manatees in their new environment.
