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The dugong (/ ˈ d (j) uː ɡ ɒ ŋ /; Dugong dugon) is a marine mammal.It is one of four living species of the order Sirenia, which also includes three species of manatees.It is the only living representative of the once-diverse family Dugongidae; its closest modern relative, Steller's sea cow (Hydrodamalis gigas), was hunted to extinction in the 18th century.
Dugongs are cousins of manatees and share a similar plump appearance, but have a dolphin fluke-like tail. And unlike manatees, which use freshwater areas, the dugong is strictly a marine mammal. Commonly known as "sea cows," dugongs graze peacefully on sea grasses in shallow coastal waters of the Indian and western Pacific Oceans.
Nov 15, 2024 · Although now protected by law throughout their range, dugongs in some areas remain in danger of local extinction because of excessive hunting and habitat degradation. For example, dugong populations have fallen so low in Chinese waters that a 2022 study declared them functionally extinct (meaning that their population was no longer viable over the long term) in the country.
Some believe that dugongs were the inspiration for ancient seafaring tales of mermaids and sirens. ... Least Concern Extinct. ... These languid animals make an easy target for coastal hunters, and ...
The biological characteristics of dugongs make them highly vulnerable to threats. Dugongs are classified as “vulnerable to extinction” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, indicating that there is high-risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future. CMS lists the dugong ...
Jul 12, 2024 · Dugongs are listed as Vulnerable to Extinction on the IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species. This status reflects the urgent need for their protection. Protected areas are established in key habitats to safeguard these creatures. These areas often focus on preserving seagrass meadows, which are vital for dugongs’ survival.
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Aug 23, 2022 · The dugong, a relative of the fabled manatee, has been declared functionally extinct in the region. ... This has led the researchers to declare the dugong functionally extinct - meaning "it is no ...
