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GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) - Despite their huge size, the bones of manatees are as brittle as fine porcelain, making them extremely vulnerable to being broken when struck by a boat, a University of Florida researchers said Thursday.
The surprising findings could ultimately change public policy for the management of Florida's waterways, said Roger Reep, a professor of the UF College of Veterinary Medicine's physiological sciences department.
"When you pick up a manatee rib, it's much denser than a cow bone or human bone. Most people would think these ribs would be really strong, as they're so heavy. But in fact, they behave like ceramic material," Reep said.
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