1. West Indian Manatee:
- There are three subspecies of West Indian manatees: the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris), the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus), and the Amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis).
- The Florida manatee population is estimated to be around 6,300 individuals.
- The Antillean manatee population is estimated to be around 2,000 individuals.
- The Amazonian manatee population is estimated to be around 10,000 individuals.
2. African Manatee:
- The African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) is found in coastal West Africa.
- The estimated population size of the African manatee is around 10,000-15,000 individuals.
3. Pygmy Manatee:
- The pygmy manatee (Trichechus pygmaeus) is found in coastal waters of Central and South America.
- The estimated population size of the pygmy manatee is around 1,000 individuals, making it the most endangered manatee species.
Overall, the total number of manatees living in the world is estimated to be around 13,000-15,000 individuals. However, conservation efforts are crucial to protect manatee habitats, address threats, and ensure the long-term survival of these gentle marine mammals.