Trichechidae

The family Trichechidae encompasses the three species of manatees, which are large, slow-moving aquatic mammals found along tropical and subtropical Atlantic coasts and in associated inland waters. These mammals are characterized by their stout, tapered bodies, ending in a flat, rounded tail used for propulsion. They possess forelimbs modified into flippers and lack hind limbs.1

Manatees are herbivores, adapted to consuming aquatic plants. Their digestive system is long, and they continuously grow new molars to cope with the abrasive nature of their diet. All three species—the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus), the Amazonian manatee (T. inunguis), and the West African manatee (T. senegalensis)—are classified as Vulnerable Species due to threats from human activities such as hunting, habitat degradation, and collisions with boats.1