Florida Manatee: Pahrsa Hashemi
By: Pahrsa Hashemi Florida Manatee Recovery Blog Trichechus manatus latirostris Photography Credits: Patrick Rose (Marine Mammal Commission) Species Description and Ecology Considered a marine mammal, the Florida manatee is one of two sub-species of the West Indian manatee. The Florida manatee resides in the Gulf and Atlantic coasts of the United States; they are suited for warmer water regions due to thermoregulatory issues. They show more ancestral roots to elephants than that of whales and dolphins. In regards to their physical description, the Florida Manatee presents a dirty-grayish exterior with thick, wrinkled skin. Although they are known for their small eyes and lack of outer ears, they maneuver through shallow waters with ease; this is done with aid of their front flippers and robust tails which allows them to efficiently steer. Adult manatees range from 9-15 feet in length and weigh as much as 2,200 pounds.