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Aug 25, 2021 · August 25, 2021. A close relative of the manatee found in the Indo-Pacific, dugongs are a hit for tourists and an important part of coastal marine ecosystems. But between climate change, harmful...
The current global population of dugongs is in decline due to human interactions with the species. The dugong’s closest modern relative, Stellar’s sea cow (Hydrodamalis gigas), was hunted to extinction in the 18th century, and without proper protections, dugongs could face the same fate.
Despite being legally protected in many countries, the main causes of population decline remain anthropogenic and include fishing-related fatalities, habitat degradation, and hunting. With its long lifespan of 70 years or more and slow rate of reproduction, the dugong is especially vulnerable to extinction.
- “Bring Back The Mermaid”
- Collecting Samples
- Historical Knowledge
Dugongs are interesting for many reasons. The name of the Order Sirenia to which they belong indicates that early sailors mistook themfor “sirens” or mermaids, as illustrated in the legend of Odysseus. Dugong teats are located under their front flippers (in their “armpits”), so it may look like they are cradling an infant when suckling a calf. Or t...
Some marine mammals, like the dugong, are difficult to study in the wild. There are a few reasons for this: these animals either occur far offshore; are solitary; or their deep diving lifestyle makes them inaccessible to researchers. In the dugong’s case, however, it seems that the decline in animal numbers is the biggest hurdle to in-depth studies...
This study added to our understanding of dugong biology. This will, hopefully, contribute to its conservation because it highlights previously unknown vulnerable or even isolated populations. With this knowledge, conservation organisations and governments will know where to invest resources to protect the species and prevent its extinction. Our wor...
Dugongs are threatened by sea grass habitat loss or degradation because of coastal development or industrial activities that cause water pollution. If there is not enough sea grass to eat then the dugong does not breed normally.
Dugongs are among the fascinating animals in the ocean and are responsible for some of the most exciting folklore and sightings near the equator. These animals are gentle herbivores, closely related to the manatee, and are the last animal of the mostly-extinct Dugongidae family.
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Sep 11, 2019 · Dugongs help fight climate change by protecting seagrass meadows. But some populations could be in a critical condition. Dugongs, one of four species of sea cow, live near to coasts in the tropical Indo-Pacific ocean around India, East Africa, Malaysia and western Australia.
