Red List Category

Red List Criteria

Version

2008

Powell, J. & Kouadio, A.

Reynolds III, J.E. & Powell, J.A. (Sirenia Red List Authority)

Criterion A3cd: This species is data limited with little new information since the previous assessment. Inference of a single generation time of up to 30 yrs in an unexploited population is based on data from the assessment for T. manatus latirostris. The level of threats, particularly hunting and incidental catches, appears to be continuing to increase throughout range with locally high rates and near extirpation in some regions. Lack of protein and continued poverty, and limited enforcement of national laws, are expected to drive increasing hunting levels. Destruction of coastal areas from mangrove harvesting, siltation and dams are resulting in reduced habitat. We estimate a high probability that a 30% or greater reduction in population size will result within a 90 year three generation period.

Criterion C1: Using survey information from Côte d'Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, The Gambia, portions of Senegal and Cameroon, and inferring what is known about manatee habitat in other range states and manatee density data for T. manatus, it is estimated that there are fewer than 10,000 manatees in West Africa. A population decline of at least 10% is anticipated based on continuing and increasing anthropogenic threats.