* Warm waters: They are highly sensitive to cold and can die in water temperatures below 68°F (20°C). This is why they are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions.

* Shallow waters: They prefer shallow, slow-moving waters with abundant aquatic vegetation.

* Abundant vegetation: Manatees are herbivores and rely on seagrass, algae, and other aquatic plants for food.

* Protected areas: They are often found in areas with minimal boat traffic and human disturbance, like estuaries, bays, rivers, canals, and springs.

Specific examples of habitats include:

* Florida: Coastal areas, rivers, springs, and estuaries along the Atlantic coast and Gulf of Mexico.

* Caribbean: Mangrove swamps, seagrass beds, and coastal areas.

* Amazon River Basin: Rivers, lakes, and wetlands.

* West Africa: Coastal areas and river systems.

It's important to note that the specific habitat preferences can vary slightly between the three species of manatees: the West Indian manatee, the Amazonian manatee, and the African manatee.