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Dugongs are large marine mammals often called sea cows due to their herbivorous diet and slow, gentle nature. They are related to both manatees and—surprisingly—elephants. They live in warm coastal waters from East Africa to Australia, grazing on underwater grasses as their main food source. They share many physical characteristics with ...
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.
Nov 15, 2024 · dugong (Dugong dugon) Dugongs (Dugong dugon) range in length from about 2.2 to 3.4 metres (7 to 11 feet) and weigh 230 to 420 kg (500 to 925 pounds). (more) Dugongs range in length from about 2.2 to 3.4 metres (7 to 11 feet) and weigh 230 to 420 kg (500 to 925 pounds). As with whales and dolphins, the dugong has a tapered body that ends in a ...
- Dugong vs. Manatee
- Slow-Moving and Slow-Growing
- Using Hair to See
- Big Boned
- Silent Predators
Dugongs are easily distinguished from manatee species by their dolphin-like tail, whereas manatees have hind fins more similar to a seal or walrus. They also have other specific adaptations such as a down-turned snout that allow it to feed specifically on seagrass with its unique, peg-like molar teeth.
Much like they move, dugongs also grow slowly. Females give birth to just one calf after a year-long pregnancy. Her young will remain close to her for up to 18 months. Because of their long life span (70 years) and slow reproduction rates, dugong populations are vulnerable despite legal protection. Humans have hunted dugongs for thousands of years,...
Dugongs have poor eyesight but good hearing. They are also covered head to tail with short hairs. These hairs are most concentrated around the mouth and are thought to help them navigate the seagrass beds, much like dogs and cats use their whiskers as a navigational aid.
Dugong bones have almost no bone marrow inside and are very solid. In fact, dugong bones are among the densest in the entire animal kingdom. These may act as a type of ballast, allowing the animal to remain effortlessly suspended just below the surface of the water when resting. Sometimes, they will rest their tail on the bottom to anchor themselve...
Although adult dugongs have few predators due to their size, they are quite susceptible to pathogens including helminths, cryptosporidium, and other bacterial and parasitic infections. In fact, in Queensland, Australia, up to 30% of dugong deaths are due to disease. Even still, the biggest threat to dugongs is habitat loss and death at the hands of...
- Shawn Laidlaw
- Sirenia
- Mammalia
- Chordata
Jul 12, 2024 · Dugongs can live up to 70 years. Their slow reproduction and long lifespan make them vulnerable to threats, as it takes a long time for the population to recover. Dugong Habitat and Distribution. Dugongs are marine mammals found in warm coastal waters. They’re closely tied to seagrass habitats, which are critical for their feeding and survival.
Feb 27, 2024 · When it comes to size, Dugongs are the ocean’s answer to a mid-sized SUV. They can stretch up to about 3 meters (that’s nearly 10 feet for the metrically challenged) and tip the scales at a hefty 600 kilograms (over 1300 pounds). Basically, if a Dugong were to crash your pool party, it’d definitely make a splash.
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Average Life Span In The Wild: 70 years. Size: 8 to 10 feet. ... and they were long sought for their meat, oil, skin, bones, and teeth. Dugongs are now legally protected throughout their range ...
