West Indian Manatee

West Indian Manatee

Trichechus manatus

Vulnerable

Image generated by artificial intelligence

DESCRIPTION

The West Indian Manatee is a large, herbivorous marine mammal with a streamlined body, paddle-like flippers, and a rounded, flattened tail. They are typically gray to brown, often with algae or barnacles on their skin. Known for their gentle nature, they inhabit warm, shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and rivers, feeding primarily on aquatic vegetation.

Max Length 4.5 m
Max Weight 1650 kg
Lifespan 30 - 60 years
Habitat Seabed, coastal zone, and open water
Depth Range 0.4 - 20 m
Diet Herbivore
Activity Cathemeral
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot West Indian Manatee

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely

Other destinations to spot West Indian Manatee

Range

Where West Indian Manatee has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about West Indian Manatee

Where can you see the West Indian Manatee?

The West Indian Manatee can be seen at 3 dive destinations in Belize and Mexico. The best spots include Turneffe Atoll (Belize), Glovers Reef (Belize), and Isla Mujeres (Mexico).

Where can you see the West Indian Manatee in Belize?

In Belize, you can see the West Indian Manatee at Turneffe Atoll and Glovers Reef.

Where can you see the West Indian Manatee in Mexico?

In Mexico, you can see the West Indian Manatee at Isla Mujeres.

How big does the West Indian Manatee get?

The West Indian Manatee can reach up to 4.5 m in length and 1650 kg in weight.

What habitat does the West Indian Manatee live in?

The West Indian Manatee is found in these habitats: seabed, coastal zone, and open water.

How deep does the West Indian Manatee live?

The West Indian Manatee lives between 0 and 20 m deep.

What does the West Indian Manatee eat?

Feeds on algae, seagrass and other plant matter.

When is the West Indian Manatee most active?

Active in irregular bursts around the clock, by day and by night alike. There is no single best hour to look for it.

How long does the West Indian Manatee live?

The West Indian Manatee lives 30 to 60 years.

What is the conservation status of the West Indian Manatee?

The West Indian Manatee is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

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