Weed Control
Leading biologist attest to the appreciation earned by the Manatee when it comes to rich biodiversity and habitat preservation it engineers daily. ELC, Enviroliteracy.org is quoted "Beyond native vegetation, manatees also play a significant role in controlling invasive aquatic plants such as water hyacinth. These invasive species can rapidly proliferate, choking waterways, disrupting navigation, and outcompeting native plant species. ... preventing the monopolization of resources by non-native vegetation...". according to 'Manatee, Manatee Biology' for River Ventures, Wild & Mild, "This grazing activity also helps maintain open water channels, which are essential for other marine life." adding, "...[also] critical habitats such as seagrass beds and mangrove forests. These habitats are not only important for manatees but also for a wide range of marine species, including fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates. Healthy seagrass beds and mangroves provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for many marine organisms." Thus, the submerged aquatic lawn is kept in intricate balance.
Fertilizer
Rachel mentioned something humorous in the video above regarding the graceful buoyance that allows the manatee to either rise or submerge. Do you recall? Well, it's closely related to the fertilizer these graceful creatures use for alternating modalities in the water. ELC calls it a 'nutrient cycle' by explaining, "Manatees are not only consumers but also natural fertilizers. Their waste products, rich in nutrients, contribute to the health of seagrass beds and other aquatic vegetation. This natural fertilization cycle helps to sustain the ecosystem’s overall productivity, ensuring that the plants remain healthy and capable of supporting other marine life." River Ventures, Wild & Mild, more graphically conveys, "As manatees digest and excrete plant material, they contribute to nutrient cycling within their habitats. Their waste products provide essential nutrients that support the growth of seagrasses and other aquatic plants. This nutrient recycling is vital for maintaining the productivity and health of coastal and riverine ecosystems." And with UNESCO attributing the Everglades to be the largest conservation project worldwide, two late public influencers, Gov./Sen. Bob Graham and Jimmy Buffet, both having recently passed on, established Save the Manatee Club .
Many who do appreciate the Manatee:
And with UNESCO attributing the Everglades to be the largest conservation project globally, two late public influencers, Gov./Sen. Bob Graham and Jimmy Buffet, both having recently passed on, established Save the Manatee Club .