The Three Types of Manatees: Exploring Manatee Species

Manatees are often called the gentle giants of the sea. They’re beloved for their slow, graceful movements and distinct appearance that feature whiskered faces and paddle-like tails. 

But did you know there are only three species of manatees in the world? 

These three types of manatees each have their own unique traits and habitats. Exploring these manatee types helps us better understand their role in aquatic ecosystems, the threats they face, and the conservation efforts needed to protect them. 

In this article, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of manatees. We’ll uncover their challenges and the ways we can contribute to their survival.

WEST INDIAN MANATEE

The West Indian manatee is the largest manatee species. 

Adults typically measure between 9 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters) in length and weigh approximately 440 to 1,320 pounds (200 to 600 kilograms). Notably, females are generally larger than males. 

These types of manatees possess grayish-brown skin, a rounded tail, and distinctive nails on their forelimbs. There are two subspecies: 

• The Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) is found in the southeastern United States.
• The Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) inhabit regions of the Caribbean, Central America, and South America​.

Indian manatees are versatile. They represent types of manatees that reside in freshwater, brackish, and marine environments such as rivers, estuaries, and coastal areas. 

At the same time, they face significant threats, including collisions with watercraft, habitat loss due to coastal development, and pollution. These challenges have led to their classification as a threatened species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

Efforts are in place to protect these different types of manatees. The Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act provide legal safeguards, while organizations like the Save the Manatee Club work towards habitat preservation and public education.

WEST AFRICAN MANATEE

The West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) inhabits the coastal and freshwater regions of western Africa. You may often find these types of manatees in mangroves, rivers, and estuaries. 

Physically, it resembles the West Indian manatee, but has a blunter snout which makes it uniquely adapted to foraging in dense aquatic vegetation. These gentle mammals primarily feed on seagrass, algae, and freshwater plants.

Unfortunately, these manatee types face numerous threats. Hunting for their meat and oil is a significant problem in many parts of Africa.

Accidental entanglement in fishing gear and habitat destruction due to deforestation and dam construction are also issues. Hydroelectric dams, in particular, disrupt their migration patterns and reduce access to critical habitats.

Efforts to save these manatee types in Africa are gaining momentum. Local awareness campaigns, coupled with international conservation programs, aim to protect their habitats and reduce hunting. 

Protected areas and ecotourism initiatives also contribute to preserving these unique manatee types, ensuring their survival in the wild. Despite these efforts, continued education and enforcement are crucial to secure the future of this vulnerable species.

AMAZONIAN MANATEE

The Amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis) is the smallest of the different manatee species. They measure between 6.5 to 9 feet (2 to 3 meters) in length and weigh 800 to 1,100 pounds (360 to 500 kilograms). 

It is uniquely identifiable by its smooth skin and the absence of nails on its forelimbs, which sets it apart from its relatives. This freshwater species thrives in the Amazon River Basin and inhabits slow-moving rivers, lakes, and flooded forests.

These manatee types face severe threats due to deforestation, illegal hunting, and climate change. Deforestation reduces available habitats, while fluctuating water levels caused by climate change impact the growth of aquatic vegetation, which is a vital food source. 

Additionally, hybrids between the Amazonian and West Indian manatees have been observed near the mouth of the Amazon River. This indicates overlapping territories between these two types of manatees, but also raises concerns about habitat pressure.

Conservation efforts include the establishment of protected areas within the Amazon Basin and international initiatives to restore freshwater ecosystems. These strategies are vital for preserving these manatee types, which are considered one of the slowest animals in the world. 

Why Saving These 3 Types of Manatees Matters for Our Planet

From clearing overgrown vegetation to promoting biodiversity, each of these three types of manatees plays a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of their habitats. Understanding facts about manatee conservation is essential to ensure the survival of these friendly giants for future generations.

This is why at Fahlo, we’re proud to support such efforts, including those aimed at saving manatees. Since 2018, we’ve partnered with nonprofits to create bracelets and plushes that allow you to track real animals. 

This initiative has helped us donate millions of dollars to protect wildlife and inspire others to join in conservation efforts. Through our products and their interactive tracking experiences, we aim to educate and excite people about preserving these incredible creatures. 

Let’s make a difference together. Ensure the survival of manatees and other vulnerable species around the world with us today.