town, north-central Puerto Rico, situated on the humid coastal lowlands. Of Indian origins, the name Manatí refers to a sea mammal, the manatee. Founded in 1738 on the northernmost point of limestone hills, Manatí is linked by a highway to San Juan. The town produces pharmaceutical products, shoes, clothing, and woodwork and has a pineapple cannery. Manatí is the centre of an agricultural area that grows fruits, sugarcane, and coffee. Pop. (2000) 16,173.