ABSTRACT
The so-called magnificent manatee lived in the Guainabo Lagoon in 16th-century Hispaniola. Descriptions offer insights into how different societies reacted and dealt with this aquatic animal. Matto was captured by the Cacique Caramatexi, who nourished and kept it for 26 years, during which it was as friendly as any other pet and held in high esteem. I will reconstruct a chronology of this story, trying to understand how it has been influenced by translation and copying, and interest in exotic natural themes. I will use it as an example of interactions and entanglements between humans and aquatic animals, before delving into origin myths and aquatic deities. I am de-centring history focusing on interactions while giving Matto agency.
