Federal, state, private and industry groups are working to save the manatee. They are protected by the Endangered Species Act. Boat speed regulations are enforced. The Florida manatee is a member of the order Sirenia. In folklore, Sirenia were mythical mermaids.
Manatees are intolerant of cold weather.
They can move between salinity extremes and can live in fresh or salt water. Adults may reach a length of nine to 10 feet and weigh between 900 and 1,200 lbs. They have a low reproductive rate. A calf is produced only one in three to five years. The gestation period is about 13 months and calves are dependent on their dams for about two years.