The Biology of Trichechus manatus and the Effect of Florida\u27s Power Plants on the Manatee

The utilization, evolution, morphology, population dynamics, distribution, parturition, and mortality rates of the West Indian manatee (Trlchechus manatus) are reviewed. The alteration of the manatee\u27s migration patterns due to warm water discharges serving as thermal refuges is also discussed. This paper focuses on the management of the West Indian manatee in the Florida Power & Light (FPL) power plant\u27 located in Port Everglades Florida. The FPL provides an independent (non·FPL) part-time observer to monitor the Intake Canal for manatees on an annual basis. The main objective of the FPL project is to guarantee the safety of the manatees. Current, as well as potential management strategies are suggested, with respect to habitat preservation and species conservation are discussed, such as the Geographical Informational System