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Although manatees live in water, they breathe oxygen. Unlike most mammals, the manatees lungs are flattened out and long and are positioned lengthwise along the back. These animals also have a very large amount of air exchange/capacity which is higher than any other mammals. In a single breathe, manatees can exchange about 90% of the air that is in their lungs. What makes this so amazing is that manatees only breathe through their nostrils.
To receive such a large a large air exchange, manatees let air in and out of their nostrils with great force when they reach the surface. Manatees have a very muscular diaphragm which helps facilitate rapid breathe exchange.
Because of the manatees large air exchange, they take in more air at one time enabling them to stay underwater for longer periods of time in between breathes. While resting, an adult manatee is able to stay underwater for up to 20 minutes. Although manatees have very large lungs for oxygen intake and exchange, they are unable to store as much oxygen for a long period of time. This enables them to swim deep underneath the water.
To receive such a large a large air exchange, manatees let air in and out of their nostrils with great force when they reach the surface. Manatees have a very muscular diaphragm which helps facilitate rapid breathe exchange.
Because of the manatees large air exchange, they take in more air at one time enabling them to stay underwater for longer periods of time in between breathes. While resting, an adult manatee is able to stay underwater for up to 20 minutes. Although manatees have very large lungs for oxygen intake and exchange, they are unable to store as much oxygen for a long period of time. This enables them to swim deep underneath the water.