Cuban scientists are exploring the north coast of the Guanahacabibes peninsula, a biosphere reserve, to further their knowledge about local ecosystems and species.
The research begun Sunday on the western tip of the island includes the tracking of aquatic and marine birds, which are numerous in the area, along with other scientifically important animal species, such as the manatee.
Biologist Dorka Cobian, a researcher with the reserve, told Prensa Latina that the manatee had been spotted in Guanahacabibes, mostly at the mouths of rivers. An abundance of feeding and freshwater sites make the peninsula an important place for the survival of the animal, also known as a sea cow, the expert said.
Cobian said one of the priorities of the present expedition is to discover the habitats and population density of the manatee.
Another goal is to study fish breeding sites in the mangrove swamps.
The next expedition, set for December, will study coral reefs in the southern part of the Guanahacabibes, a vast carsic plain that marks the western limit of the island.
The investigation, which is part of a national research project, will also cover gorgonian colonies, sponges, and associated fauna.
Also known as El Cabo, the region is a favorite nesting site for sea turtles, and three of seven identified species lay their eggs on its beaches.
One of the last surviving Caribbean jungles in the world surrounds the dunes of Guanahacabibes.