Here's why:
* Large and slow: Manatees are large, slow-moving animals, making them vulnerable to predators.
* Herbivores: They primarily eat plants, meaning they don't hunt other animals for food.
* Known predators: Manatees are preyed upon by animals such as:
* Alligators and crocodiles: Especially young manatees.
* Sharks: Although relatively rare, larger sharks can pose a threat.
* Humans: While not a natural predator, human activities like boat strikes are a significant threat to manatees.
Even though they are herbivores, manatees are still a vital part of the ecosystem, and their role as prey helps balance the food chain.