The captivating story of Remi
The most famous manatee in the Dominican Republic
The manatee, also known as the sea cow or Caribbean manatee, is a highly protected and unique marine mammal in the Dominican Republic that plays an important role in the ecosystem. This species prefers warm, shallow waters and is often found near mangrove forests or estuaries. They are almost completely hairless and are slightly larger than humans. The females have two mammary glands located near their front flippers, similar to human females. Their cylindrical bodies end in a horizontal tail. This is why they were historically compared to mermaids, giving rise to countless myths and legends about sirens in the seas that lure sailors to their doom. Interestingly, Christopher Columbus also mentioned seeing mermaids while sailing in the Caribbean, which were likely manatees.
Unfortunately, due to human activities, their species has come close to extinction. The reasons for this include the increased ship traffic in the oceans leading to more collisions, the drastic reduction of their habitats, and environmental pollution.
Discover Remi’s Unique Story
Remi first appeared in the Caribbean Sea near the shores of Bayahibe in 2019. His friendly behavior and curiosity towards people made him popular among divers. He often accompanied divers during their dives, and this unusual behavior drew the attention of the local community. The animal was observed to have scars on its back, attributed to collisions with boats. Later, these distinctive markings were used to track him, allowing for a deeper understanding of this special creature.
His story inspired diving instructor Lise Menard, the creator of the "Mi Mar Maravilloso" (My Wonderful Sea) project, to write a children's book titled "Remi, the Lost Manatee." The storybook follows Remi’s adventures as he explores the sea, makes friends, and learns important life lessons. The book brought national recognition to Remi.
His story encourages us to better understand the world around us, protect our natural treasures, and act consciously to safeguard marine life.
Photo: Marca País RD
