What’s in a name? Standardization of vernacular names for Trichechus manatus

Abstract

Trichechus manatus is one of 3 recognized extant species of manatees of the mammalian Order Sirenia. Currently, it is known by various vernacular names, none of which are descriptive of its biology and known distribution. This lack of standardization has led to confusion and miscommunication, hindering conservation efforts for this species. We propose standardizing the vernacular names used to refer to the species and its 2 subspecies based on appropriate geographical characterization in English, Spanish, French, Dutch, and Portuguese, respectively: “American Manatee”, “Manatí de las Américas”, “Lamantin d’Amérique”, “Amerikaanse Lamantijn”, and “Peixe-boi-das-Américas” for T. manatus; “Florida Manatee”, “Manatí de la Florida”, “Lamantin de Floride”, “Florida Lamantijn”, and “Peixe-boi-da-Flórida” for T. m. latirostris; and “Greater Caribbean Manatee”, “Manatí del Gran Caribe”, “Lamantin des Grandes Caraïbe”, “Groter Caribische Lamantijn”, and “Peixe-boi-do-Grande-Caribe” for T. m. manatus. By establishing clear, universally recognized, and standardized vernacular names, we foster a sense of connection and scientific communication responsibility, improving public awareness and understanding of these animals and ultimately aiding in their conservation.