Which rainforest mammal is the largest of the three living manatee species?

The West Indian manatee is the largest of the three living manatee species and inhabits tropical coastal waters, rivers, and wetlands.

Also called the American manatee, it includes two recognized subspecies: the Florida manatee and the Antillean manatee. Adults can exceed 4 metres in length and weigh more than 1,500 kilograms, although size varies by population.

West Indian manatees are herbivores that graze on aquatic plants. Their paddle-shaped forelimbs help them steer and bring food toward the mouth, while the broad tail provides propulsion.

The species is often confused with the Amazonian manatee, which is smaller and restricted to South American freshwater systems. Manatees are also distinct from dugongs, whose tails are deeply forked rather than rounded.