Animal Profiles
Mammals

Manatee

Trichechidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Manatees are plant-eating aquatic mammals. The West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus), which uses coastal and freshwater habitats, is the representative described here.

Trichechus manatus (manatee)

Representative species: Trichechus manatus.

At a glance

Location
West Indian manatees occupy warm American coastal waters, rivers and estuaries, including the Caribbean region. This range does not describe every manatee species.
Habitat
Coast, Rivers and lakes
Diet
Herbivore
Food
Seagrasses and other aquatic vegetation provide food.

Classification

Common name
Manatee
Browse group
Mammals
Scientific name or taxon
Trichechidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Sirenia
Family
Trichechidae
Source classification
Mammalia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • It can move between fresh and salt water.
  • Its divided upper lip manipulates plants.
  • It surfaces to breathe air.

Habitat and range

West Indian manatees occupy warm American coastal waters, rivers and estuaries, including the Caribbean region. This range does not describe every manatee species.

Appearance and adaptations

A broad body and rounded paddle-like tail suit slow swimming. Flexible lips gather food, while front flippers help manipulate vegetation.

Diet and behaviour

Seagrasses and other aquatic vegetation provide food. Individuals are often solitary but can form temporary gatherings. Cold sensitivity influences which waters they use and where they shelter.

Sources

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