👉 Manatees are a type of marine mammal that live in the Indian Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. They have short, flat tails, which is why they are often referred to as "flat-tailed". Manatees are also known for their distinctive white coloration, which is caused by the presence of a pigment called melanin. They are large mammals that can weigh up to 15 tons and live between 30 and 60 years in captivity.