Monachinae

Monachinae is a subfamily of earless seals, also known as true seals, within the family Phocidae. This subfamily includes three species, all of which are commonly referred to as monk seals. These species are the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), the Hawaiian monk seal (Neomonachus schauinslandi), and the Caribbean monk seal (Neomonachus tropicalis). The Caribbean monk seal is believed to be extinct.

Monk seals are characterized by their relatively large size, stout bodies, and the absence of external ear flaps, a defining feature of true seals. They typically inhabit warm, tropical or subtropical waters, preferring secluded beaches and coastal caves for resting and breeding. Their diet consists mainly of fish and cephalopods.

All monk seal species are considered endangered or critically endangered. Habitat loss, human disturbance, and historical hunting have significantly impacted their populations. Conservation efforts are underway to protect the remaining individuals and their habitats, focusing on reducing human interaction, mitigating threats from fishing gear, and restoring suitable breeding grounds. The Mediterranean monk seal is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world, with only a few hundred individuals estimated to remain. The Hawaiian monk seal, while also endangered, has seen some population stabilization due to dedicated conservation programs.