* Seagrass meadows: These are their primary food source, and manatees play a crucial role in maintaining the health of these meadows by grazing and keeping them clear of excessive plant growth.
* Mangrove swamps: Manatees use mangroves for shelter and protection from predators, especially during cold weather.
* Rivers and canals: Manatees often move into these waterways to escape the cold or to find food.
* Coastal lagoons and bays: These areas provide shallow, warm waters that are ideal for manatees.
While they are primarily associated with these coastal and estuarine ecosystems, manatees can also be found in freshwater environments like springs and rivers.
