Most of the endemic species, however, are crabs. The manatees may serve as an example of the endangered species of the African mangroves. Although they are marine animals, the manatees are not related to neither whales, walrus nor dolphins. Surprisingly, their closest relatives are the elephant. They move freely between freshwater and saltwater habitats.
Manatees are slow-moving creatures that feed on aquatic vegetation.
Adults range in length from 2.5 to 4.5 m and may reach nearly 700 kg in weight. Adult manatees have no natural enemies but in some areas are heavily hunted for meat, hides, and oil. Where boat traffic is heavy, manatees are often injured or killed by boat propellers. They are mostly protected by law because of their usefulness in keeping waterways clear of aquatic vegetation. The West African manatee depends on the mangrove habitat.