The nails on manatees’ flippers are a remarkable example of evolutionary adaptation, aiding in their ability to grasp, stabilize, and protect themselves in their aquatic environment. These features not only highlight the manatees’ ancient lineage but also underscore the importance of conservation efforts to ensure their survival in a changing world.

Manatees are impressive creatures, notable for their large size and gentle nature. Understanding their physical characteristics, growth patterns, and habitat needs is vital for their conservation and protection.

As fascinating as manatee mating season can be, it is crucial to remember that these are wild animals and should be treated with respect.

Manatees have a vestigial pelvic bone which suggests that at some point during their evolution, they did have legs like their closest living relatives the elephant and hyrax.

Manatees have been documented eating over 60 different varieties of vegetation including turtle grass, manatee grass, shoal grass, mangrove leaves, water hyacinth, hydrilla, and eelgrass.