Definition & Meaning of "sirenia"

What is a "sirenia"?

Sirenia, also known as sea cows, are a group of marine mammals that includes dugongs and manatees. These large, herbivorous animals are known for their unique appearance, with rotund bodies, paddle-like flippers, and horizontally flattened tails. They have a streamlined shape and typically have sparse hair on their skin. Sirenians are known to inhabit coastal waters and rivers in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, where they feed on seagrasses and other aquatic vegetation. They are slow-moving creatures and are known for their gentle and peaceful nature. Sirenians are considered vulnerable to extinction due to various threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and human activities, and are protected by conservation measures in many countries.