Manatee

Manatees are large, slow-moving aquatic mammals in the genus Trichechus, sometimes called sea cows.

Manatees are large, slow-moving aquatic mammals in the genus Trichechus, sometimes called sea cows. They are herbivores that live in warm shallow waters, rivers, and estuaries.

What it is

Manatees belong to the family Trichechidae and the order Sirenia. There are three living species: the Amazonian manatee, West Indian manatee, and West African manatee. These gentle giants have flippers, a flat paddle-shaped tail, and spend much of their day grazing on aquatic plants.

Where they live and what they eat

Manatees inhabit shallow rivers, estuaries, bays, canals, and coastal waters in tropical and subtropical parts of the Americas and West Africa. They are primarily herbivorous, feeding on seagrasses and other aquatic vegetation. They can consume large quantities of plants each day.

Why it matters

All three manatee species are considered at risk of extinction, with conservation statuses varying from vulnerable to higher threat levels. Major threats include habitat loss, boat strikes, hunting in some regions, and environmental changes. Protecting their warm-water habitats is critical for their survival.