ENCOPEMAQ – Brazil's most important conference on the protection of aquatic mammals.
From June 17 to 20, Fortaleza will host the IX ENCOPEMAQ, the National Conference on the Protection and Research of Aquatic Mammals. This important conference brings together researchers, students, and conservation professionals to address the urgent challenges facing marine and freshwater mammals in Brazil and beyond.
The venue is the Pici Campus of the Federal University of Ceará (UFC). This year's theme, "Under Pressure: Aquatic Mammals in a World in Crisis," draws attention to the growing threats posed by climate change, pollution, destructive fishing practices, and habitat loss.
The IX ENCOPEMAQ is organized by the Aquatic Ecosystems Research and Preservation Association ( AQUASIS), an institution with over 30 years of experience in researching and protecting aquatic mammals in Brazil. Thanks to its many years of work, Aquasis is a key player in Brazilian species conservation.
YAQU PACHA is proud to financially support this important event and to work together with others to protect whales, dolphins, manatees, otters, and many other species. With 59 species of aquatic mammals—more than 45% of the world's diversity in this animal group—Brazil plays a key role in the global conservation of aquatic mammals.
The conference program includes specialist presentations by international and national experts, panel discussions on current challenges, practical training courses, and numerous scientific contributions. Particular focus will be placed on endangered species such as the Guiana river dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) and the Caribbean manatee (Trichechus manatus), both of which are native to Ceará and are listed on the Brazilian and state red lists of endangered species.
YAQU PACHA remains committed to promoting knowledge exchange and supporting people who are at the forefront of marine and freshwater mammal conservation.
