Manatees And Dugongs Of The World

"An excellent introduction to the natural history of the four living species of sirenian, including the Florida and Antillean sub-species of the West Indian manatee, the Amazonian manatee, and the dugong, as well as the extinct Stellar's Sea Cow."--Jacket

A synthesis of the ecological and related knowledge pertinent to understanding the biology and conservation of dugongs and manatees.

This book fully documents the natural history of Sirenia, the order of aquatic mammals including manatees of the Caribbean, West Africa, and the Amazon, as well as the Indo-Pacific dugong.

A compelling tale of magical myths and startling facts, of ruthless hunters and dedicated conservationists and of the uncanny gentleness of creatures poised on the edge of extinction. This story takes readers on adventures into the primordial springs of Florida to explore the crystalline home of the manatee firsthand. Also compares the chubby manatee to the voluptuous mermaid of legend. Photos and illustrations.

These large herbivorous marine mammals, whose closest relative is the elephant, have calm, inquisitive natures that have endeared them to many. Curious legends are associated with manatees and dugongs wherever they are found, and they are central to many cultural traditions around the world. These remarkable animals are at risk throughout most of their range, from hunting, collisions with water craft, entanglement in fishing gear, habitat alteration and disease. This up-to-date study examines their origins, life cycles and present distribution, and discusses the problems facing conservationists in their efforts to protect these gentle giants.

Discusses the evolution, movement, habitat, and physical description of manatees and dugongs, as well as what can be done to protect them.

Describes the physical characteristics, classification, behavior, habitat, and endangered status of Florida manatees.

This is the first illustrated book the present the natural history of these friendly, gentle marine mammals and to make an impassioned plea for saving the manatee from imminent extinction. Illustrated with over 175 full-colour photographs, it is published with the hope of deepening an appreciation of the manatees and the plight of these magnificent sea creatures which are the frequent victims of harassment, poaching and violence from humans. Only 3,000 manatees remain in the world today, mostly off the coast of Florida.