West Indian Manatee Skull Replica

Description

West Indian manatee skull replica measures 16.1 x 10.5 x 9.5 inches. The Trichechus manatus is a museum-quality polyurethane resin cast from California Academy of Sciences specimen. 2-part skull (separate cranium and mandible). 1:1 scale. Made in USA.

The West Indian manatee, also known as the North American manatee, stands as the largest surviving member of the aquatic mammal order Sirenia. These animals use vocal communication and sensitive whiskers called vibrissae to navigate and find food. During breeding season multiple males form mating herds around a single female. On average a female gives birth to one calf every two to three years.

Most West Indian manatees reach lengths between 8.9 and 11.5 feet and weigh from 440 to 1,320 pounds. Females generally grow larger than males in this species. Marine biologists estimate the gentle giants live for about 50 years or more in their natural habitats.

Scientific Classification

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: Sirenia
• Family: Trichechidae
• Genus: Trichechus
• Species: T. manatus
• Binomial name: Trichechus manatus
• Conservation status: Endangered

Pair the West Indian manatee skull with the Dugong male skull replica to highlight the structural differences between tuskless, grinding jaws and tusked rostrums. Including the Steller’s sea cow skull replica illustrates the massive scale of these extinct giants, while the Amazonian manatee skull replica offers a clear comparison of freshwater versus saltwater adaptations.