The manatee is a large creature with two fore-flippers and one rear flipper that acts as a rudder when it swims. The manatee is often referred to as the sea cow.
The manatee has an incredible immune system. It is able to heal after great injury, even injuries caused by boats. The manatee has a very sensitive pattern of whiskers on its snout for sensing its food supply in the dark, murky waters where it sometimes frequents.
CLASS: Mammalia (mammal)
ORDER: Sirenia (mammals living in water)
FAMILY: Trichechidae (manatees)
GENUS/SPECIES: Trichechus inunguis (Amazonian); T. senegalensis (West
African), and T. manatus (West Indian)
Size: Average 10 ft (3 m)
Weight: 900–1,200 lbs (410–545 kg)
Diet: Plants
Habitat: Aquatic, in sub-tropical and tropical areas
With fun facts about more than 100 animals, this long-awaited Aquarium Guide includes beautiful pictures and reveals the incredible facts and design features that point to our amazing Creator. This handy size guide is excellent for school field trips and family trips to your favorite aquarium!
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