Domain: Eukarya

Domain is the broadest classification of an organism.  Domain Eukarya is divided into four kingdoms, Protista, Animalia, Plantae and Fungi. Eukarya is characterized by having complex cells,  membrane bound organelles, and the genetic material is located inside the nucleus.

Kingdom: Animalia

Organisms classified under Animalia are multicellular, feed by consuming other organisms which makes them heterotrophic. They do not have a cell wall, and they are comprised of cells. 

Phylum: Chordata

Chordata is a group that contains the vertebrates and invertebrates.  Chordates are characterized by having a notochord, a dorsal hollow nerve chord, pharyngeal slits, an endostyle, and a postanal muscular tail.

Class: Mammalia

Mammals are characterized by the ability to produce milk for the nourishment of their offspring.   Also characterized by the presence of hair or fur, and specialized teeth.  All mammals are endothermic meaning the are warm blooded animals.

Order: Sirenia

Sirenia is the order of fully aquatic herbivorous mammals.  They typically live in rivers, costal marine waters, wetlands, and esturaries.  All Sirenians have have major aquatic adaptations.  Some of these include modified arms for steering or walking along substrate, the tail is modified as a large paddle for movement. Comprised of three manatee species and the dugong. 

Family: Trichechidae

Is comprised of manatees.

Genus: Trichechus

There are 3 species of manatees that make up the Genus Trichechus; The Amazonian Manatee, The African Manatee and The West Indian Manatee.

Species: Trichechus manatus

The West Indian Manatee.

Phylogenetic Tree Link to Phylogenetic Tree