376 



CETACEA. 



accordingly, they emerge from the water to seek their pasture on 

 the shore. They have two mammae on the breast, and hairs like 

 moustachios ; two circumstances which, when they raise the body 

 out of the water, give them some resemblance to men and women, 

 and have probably given rise to the ancient fables about Tritons 

 and Sirens, and more modern tales of Mermaids and similar 

 monsters. Their nostrils open at the extremity of their muzzle. 



The Sea-Cows (Manatus)*) have a long, whale-like body, terminated by 

 an oblong oval fin. Vestiges of claws may be discovered on the edges of their 

 fin-like paws, indicating the tips of so many fingers, so that they can use their 

 limbs with tolerable dexterity in creeping upon the ground and in carrying 



FlG. 4l6. -MANATEE. 



their little ones. These fins have been compared to hands, and hence is 

 derived the name by which they are distinguished. They inhabit the warm 

 regions of the Atlantic Ocean, near the mouths of rivers, which they some- 

 times ascend to a considerable distance. They live in flocks, often land, and 

 are readily approached. They display the greatest attachment to their com- 

 panions. The manati are sometimes fifteen or even twenty feet in length ; 

 their flesh is eaten and esteemed a luxury. 



The Dugongs (Halicore)^ differ from the manati by having their tail fin- 

 shaped, like a crescent, and pointed tusks that protrude from the upper jaw. 

 They inhabit the shores of the Indian Ocean. 



From "manus," a hand furnished ivith hands. 

 f aXy, hals, the sea ; Kopij, core, a maiden. 



