With rising water levels, manatees return to Myakka

The Wild and Scenic Myakka River meanders for 12 miles through Myakka River State Park, and then continues to Charlotte Bay to the south, where it flows into the Gulf of Mexico. The river therefore offers a gateway to Myakka River State Park for aquatic wildlife seeking safe refuge and food, including manatees.

Florida manatees are found in shallow, slow-moving rivers, estuaries, saltwater bays, canals and coastal areas. These gentle giants are typically 9-10 feet long and weigh around 1,000 pounds. When water levels in the rain-fed Myakka River are high enough, manatees regularly find their way to the park. Shortly after a record period of drought-driven low water levels, manatees have already been spotted back at Myakka.

As mostly herbivorous marine mammals, manatees are known for their diet of submerged aquatic vegetation — such as seagrass. Such vegetation is rooted and grows completely under water. And, as would be expected due to their size, manatees eat a lot, consuming about 32 to 108 pounds of wet vegetation daily. 

Unfortunately, poor water quality in Florida has been causing a decline in seagrass beds, leaving manatees literally starving to death. Additionally, runoff of pollutants into the Gulf of Mexico is causing repeat red tide events. These blooms coat submerged aquatic vegetation with neurotoxic algae that can poison manatees, making them seize and drown.

It is interesting to note that though manatees regularly seek refuge at Myakka River State Park, submerged aquatic vegetation is unable to grow in the sunlight-blocked blackwaters of the Myakka. So what do the manatees eat? On the menu is a different type of aquatic vegetation known as emergent plants.

Bridging the gap between aquatic and terrestrial habitats, the roots of emergent plants are submerged in water, while their stems and leaves emerge above the surface — hence their name. They are typically found in wetlands or along the shore. 

Emergent plants offer numerous benefits, including erosion control, wildlife habitat, and water purification. And for manatees, the abundant emergent plants along the banks of the Myakka River and its two lakes offer a crucial benefit: ample, toxin-free food.

Friends of Myakka River exists to support Myakka River State Park and the Wild and Scenic Myakka River. Together, we're protecting and sharing Myakka's Magic, to the benefit of future generations, and our own. Follow us @FriendsofMyakkaRiver