In Puerto Rico, the 26th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals will be held for the first time in Latin America at the San Juan Convention Center from October 19 to 23, 2026. The conference, with the theme 'One ocean, one future', aims to share findings and strengthen research and knowledge to protect marine biodiversity, focusing on species like manatees, which depend on sea grass beds for food and are endangered.
The Caribbean Manatee Conservation Center in Bayamón, which has been caring for injured, sick, or orphaned animals, including manatees and seals, since 2009, will participate in the conference. Dr. Antonio Mignucci, the center’s director, and his team have rescued 57 manatees and some seals, and conduct studies and educational activities for new generations. The conference will discuss topics such as pollution and climate change, raising awareness about these issues. Scientists, experts, and researchers will gather to discuss the protection of marine mammals.