Trichechus inunguis, commonly known as the Amazonian manatee, is a large, herbivorous mammal found in the Amazon River basin. It is one of the three species of manatees, and the only one that lives exclusively in freshwater.
Description & Characteristics
The Amazonian manatee is a large, robust animal with a fusiform body shape that is well-adapted for aquatic life. It has a thick, gray-brown skin and a short, rounded head with a blunt snout. The forelimbs are flipper-like, and the hind limbs are absent. A large, horizontal tail fin provides propulsion. The Amazonian manatee lacks any external ears, instead possessing small openings on the side of its head. On average, adults can reach lengths of 2.5-3 meters and weigh between 200-500 kilograms. Their lifespan is estimated to be between 40-50 years.
Habitat and Occurrence
Trichechus inunguis is found only in freshwater environments, specifically within the Amazon River basin. Its range encompasses countries such as Brazil, Peru, Colombia, Bolivia, and Ecuador. The Amazonian manatee prefers shallow, slow-moving waters such as lakes, lagoons, and flooded forests. It is a highly aquatic species, spending almost all of its life underwater. It may venture into deeper waters, but usually stays in areas with depths of less than 10 meters.
Taxonomy
Trichechus inunguis belongs to the Class: Mammalia, Order: Sirenia, and Family: Trichechidae. Sirenia is a group of fully aquatic herbivorous mammals that includes dugongs and manatees. The Trichechidae family consists of the three species of manatees: the Amazonian manatee, the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus), and the West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis).
Feeding
Trichechus inunguis is a herbivorous mammal that feeds primarily on aquatic plants. Its diet includes grasses, water hyacinths, and other aquatic vegetation. The Amazonian manatee uses its sensitive upper lip to graze on plants, pulling them into its mouth. It can consume large amounts of vegetation, up to 10% of its body weight daily. The Amazonian manatee plays an important role in the Amazonian ecosystem, helping to control the growth of aquatic plants and maintain the health of aquatic habitats.
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