Peixe-Boi
The peixe-boi project near João Pessoa was started with the intention of protecting the peixe boi marinho, one of the most threated marine mammals in existence. It was created in “Área de Proteção Ambiental da Barra de Mamanguape”. to preserve the eco system where the animals live. The project is part of a national scheme to protect the animal. The project studies the food habits, behaviour and its reaction to captivity and the natural environment.
At the moment, there are eight adult peixe boi and five peixe boi calves but there have been two recent additions called Guape and Guaje. The two are treated with great care and affection by the team of scientists and assistants at the Mamanguape centre. It’s possible for tourists to follow a typical working day with the people who look after the peixe boi. Additional support to the project comes from artesarto products made locally in the shape of the peixe boi.
For more information about the projects Roberto Barbosa, cordinator do Centro de Mamíferos Aquáticos, pelo telefone (83)3228 3865
Interesting Links
http://www.mamiferosaquaticos.org.br/ecoparque.htm
http://www.conservacao.org/publicacoes/files/CorredoresEcologicos.pd
