Manatees are large and gentle creatures with an unmistakable appearance. They are gray and oval-shaped sea giants, with stout bodies, whiskered face, two flippers and a rounded paddle-like tail. They live their entire lives in water, relying almost exclusively on vegetation for their food. Due to a lack of body fat for insulation against cold, they like to stay in water that is at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer in order to survive. Manatees are solitary animals that prefer to live alone except during mating season or nursing young ones. They move slowly, but can go at quick bursts of speed when necessary.

How many species of manatees exist?

There are three species of manatees. First, the West Indian Manatee that is commonly found in Florida and the Gulf Coast of North America. Next, the Amazonian Manatee that is found in the Amazonian River Basin. And, the West African Manatee found along the tropical and sub-tropical waters of Africa. All three manatee species are aquatic mammals that are large in size and almost wholly herbivorous. And all three species are highly vulnerable and endangered, constantly facing threats such as loss of habitat, entrapment in turbines and generators, entanglement in fishing nets and collisions with watercrafts.

Amazonian Manatee (Trichechus inunguis)

This unique species of manatees is found in the Amazon River Basin and its tributaries. It is the smallest of the three manatee species in terms of size, being 8-10 feet long and weighing about 1,100 pounds. The Amazonian Manatee is the only member of the manatee family that lives exclusively in freshwater and never moves into saltwater. It also has a smooth skin and stands out as the only type of manatee without nails on the forelimbs.

West African Manatee (Trichechus senegalensis)

Found in coastal areas, in both saltwater and freshwater, the West African Manatee commonly resides in the tropical and sub-tropical zones of Western Africa. With a size of 10-13 feet and weight of 1,100 pounds, the West African Manatee is bigger than the Amazonian Manatee, though of similar size and appearance to the West Indian Manatee except for its blunter snout. The manatee is typically herbivorous, but may occasionally feed on small fish and shellfish.

West Indian Manatee (Trichechus manatus)

The West Indian Manatee holds the distinction of being the largest and most well-known Sirenian. It possesses gray, somewhat brown skin, a rounded tail, and a set of nails on its forelimbs. These creatures grow to 13 feet in length and can weigh up to 3,300 pounds. The West Indian Manatee primarily inhabits marshy coastal regions. And, it can be located in the Southeastern United States, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico. This species encompasses two subspecies: the Florida Manatee and the Antillean Manatee.

Florida Manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris)

This most recognized group of manatees commonly inhabits the coasts of Southeastern United States and the Gulf of Mexico. In Florida, large numbers of manatees gather in the springs of Crystal River, especially during winter when they search for warmer waters. People from around the world travel to witness these sea giants in their natural habitat. The Florida Manatee surpasses the Antillean Manatee in size. They possess elongated round bodies that taper toward a flat, paddle-shaped tail. Their head and face exhibit wrinkles with whiskers on the snout.

Antillean Manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus)

This subspecies of the West Indian Manatee inhabits the Caribbean and the Coast of Central America. They maintain a close relationship with manatees found along Florida’s coast. Nonetheless, their size is smaller compared to Florida manatees. They can grow up to 12 feet in length and reach weights of up to 3000 pounds, although more commonly around 9-10 feet and 1,000 pounds. Their primary diet consists of sea grass, and they dedicate several hours per day to grazing, displaying a slow-paced nature. Historically, locals hunted Antillean manatees for food, selling them to explorers. Presently, these manatees confront numerous threats, including habitat loss, vessel strikes, entanglement in fishing gear, and poaching.

At Captain Mike’s, we treasure manatees and are committed to helping others learn about them and care for these amazing but endangered creatures. We offer guided manatee tours in Crystal River and take part in efforts to protect the animals. A ride with us through the springs and an hour or more in the water with manatees will give you memories for a lifetime. Want to know more about manatees and manatee tours in Crystal River, Florida? Visit Captain Mike’s Swimming with the Manatees website or stop by for a tour.