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The dugong (/ ˈd (j) uːɡɒŋ /; Dugong dugon) is a marine mammal. It is one of four living species of the order Sirenia, which also includes three species of manatees.
6 days ago · Dugongs are long-lived animals (up to 73 years). Predation by killer whales and sharks has been documented, and crocodiles may also prey on dugongs. In the past dugongs were widely and heavily hunted by humans for their meat, hides, and oil.
Aug 21, 2020 · The dugong is a marine mammal that spends its time grazing on seagrass in shallow coastal waters. A close relative of manatees, it is the only remaining member of the Dugongidae family. Often dubbed ‘sea cows’, dugongs are the only marine mammal that eats virtually only plants.
- Shawn Laidlaw
- Sirenia
- Mammalia
- Chordata
Jul 12, 2024 · Dugongs can live for over 70 years and are capable of holding their breath for up to 11 minutes while diving deep to feed. Despite their impressive abilities, dugongs face numerous threats. They’re listed as vulnerable or endangered in many areas.
Few dugongs are kept in human care, and knowledge of their needs is sparse. Because sea grass is impractical to grow for feeding, animals in aquariums are generally fed lettuce. This diet has worked well for manatees in the United States.
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.
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Sep 5, 2023 · Dugongs have captured the human imagination for centuries with their gentle nature and peculiar appearance. These gentle ocean giants may seem sluggish, but they are powerful swimmers and can propel their large bodies effortlessly through the water with surprising speed.
