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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.
Some of the common dugong enemies include crocodiles, killer whales, saltwater crocodiles, and sharks. Among all these predators, tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) pose a significant threat to the survival of dugongs. Tiger sharks are one of the most dangerous shark species globally and can grow up to 5 meters long.
Jul 12, 2024 · Physical Characteristics. Dugongs are easily identifiable by their large, elongated bodies. They typically measure between 7 to 11 feet in length and weigh between 500 to 925 pounds. Their skin is thick and smooth, often a grayish color. They have rounded flippers on either side of their bodies and a fluke resembling a whale’s tail.
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. Dugongs have a long, cylindrical body and no dorsal fins.
- Shawn Laidlaw
- Sirenia
- Mammalia
- Chordata
May 27, 2024 · The dugong is one of four living members of the order Sirenia — the others being three species of manatees — and the only living member of the family Dugongidae. A second member of the family, Steller’s sea cow, was driven to extinction in the 18th century due to overhunting. Nineteen total genera from the family are known from the fossil ...
- Female
- April 22, 1960
Threats. The threats to dugongs vary between specific areas and populations, but in general, they include habitat loss and degradation due to coastal development, pollution, and the destruction of seagrass meadows. Fishing and shipping also present serious threats to this species. Dugong swimming underwater.
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Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are a protected species of large marine mammals that resemble manatees. Dugongs belong to the order Sirenia of placental mammals. They have robust, torpedo-shaped bodies covered in tough, wrinkled, and sparsely-haired skin. Surprisingly, the elephant is the closest relative to both dugongs and other members of the sea cow ...
