Monk Seals [Monachus]

Description

Monachus is a genus historically consisting of three species of monk seals. Monk seals are medium-sized pinnipeds known for their preference for warm temperate and tropical waters. The Caribbean monk seal is now extinct, while the Mediterranean and the Hawaiian monk seals are endangered. These seals are characterized by their smooth, sleek bodies, and relatively unmarked pelage. Monk seals are solitary and tend to forage in coastal waters, often hunting for fish and cephalopods along the seabed.

Species

Mediterranean Monk Seal [Monachus monachus]

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Hawaiian Monk Seal [Neomonachus schauinslandi]

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Caribbean Monk Seal [Neomonachus tropicalis]

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Taxonomy