G7_The Manatee – An Endangered Icon_ above grade_03

In nature, it’s all about the survival of the fittest. The phrase, “survival of the fittest,” comes from Darwin’s evolutionary theory. Survival of the fittest can be thought of as a way of describing the mechanism that governs natural selection. The goal of any species is to reproduce in a manner by which it can leave as many copies of itself as possible. This reproductive mechanism provides for the continued success of the species. Unfortunately, for animals on the threatened and endangered list, their populations are diminishing at an alarming rate.

In terms of survival of the fittest, the manatee is not being threatened by other native animal species. In contrast, the manatee’s threat comes solely from humans, who no longer need adapt to their environment. Instead, humans more typically adapt the environment to fit their own needs. Unfortunately, this threat is happening too quickly for the manatee or other species to adapt. Without our protection, the manatee may soon become extinct.

Too quickly in fact for the manatee or other species to adapt. Without our help, the manatee may soon become extinct.

After several hours of snorkeling, the group makes their way back to the dock. It’s been a great day; there were a lot of manatees at the spring today. The group was able to get a lot of useful pictures. Perhaps, even more importantly, they now have a better understanding of manatees to share with their fellow students. They firmly believe that if man is the ultimate threat to these and other creature, then man alone can save them.