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Which aquatic mammals live in the Congo River system?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
Physical map of the Congo River basin and its drainage network in Central Africa, showing rivers, major tributaries, elevation gradients, cities, international boundaries, and the approximate boundary of the Ituri Forest. Swamps and flood-prone areas are marked in blue, with symbols indicating waterfalls, rapids, and dams. An inset locator map shows the basin's position within Africa.
Congo River

Aquatic mammals are rare in the Congo River system. The species found in these waters include:

  • Hippopotamus: These large, amphibious mammals are common in the rivers and lakes of the region.123
  • Otters: Two species of otters are found in the Congo River system. These include the Congo clawless otter (Aonyx congicus) and the speckle-throated otter (Hydrictis maculicollis), both of which are native to sub-Saharan Africa.14
  • Manatee: The manatee (sea cow) is also present, though it has been officially identified only on the Sangha tributary.1