The term DUGONG KIN refers to the family of animals known as manatees. Manatees are large aquatic mammals that inhabit shallow coastal areas and rivers in tropical and subtropical regions. They are related to the dugong, another large aquatic mammal found in the same habitats. Manatees are herbivores and can grow up to 13 feet long and weigh up to 1, 300 pounds. They are considered vulnerable to extinction due to human activities such as hunting and habitat destruction.