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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.
These animals are called 'sirenians' since their mammary glands and nursing habits are similar to those of humans'. Hence, sailors often call dugongs mermaids or sirens. The upper lips of these animals are very flexible, helping them snatch entire plants. After feeding, dugongs leave so-called 'feeding trails' - furrows, made on the seafloor.
Meet the sea cows that inhabit coastal waters and learn why dugong conservation is more important than ever.
Unlike the closely related manatees, the dugong never enters freshwater and is therefore the only exclusively herbivorous marine mammal. Learn more about dugongs.
As the lone marine mammal that eats only plants, dugongs play a key role in sea grass ecosystems. They help keep sea grass beds healthy by grazing and spreading seeds. This unique diet makes dugongs different from all other sea mammals. Whales, dolphins, and seals all eat meat. But dugongs are happy with just plants from the sea. 9.
These creatures are often called “sea cows” due to their grazing habits. Dugongs are the only marine mammals that eat only plants. Some key features of dugongs include: Length: 7 to 11 feet (2.2 to 3.4 meters) Weight: 500 to 925 pounds (230 to 420 kg) Cylindrical body; No dorsal fin; Fluked tail like whales; Dugongs differ from manatees in ...
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Do dugongs eat plants?
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Why do people eat dugong?
Nov 19, 2024 · The snout is broad and bristled. The thick bristles function as sensory hairs and are important for detecting, discriminating, and manipulating food. Dugongs are usually observed singly or as pairs, and sightings of dugongs by early seafarers are believed to have given rise to the mythology of mermaids and Sirens. Herds of 100–200 dugongs ...
