Dugong
The dugong (Dugong dugon) is a large marine mammal that is found in the warm, shallow waters of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the only surviving species of the family Dugongidae, and is closely related to the extinct Steller’s sea cow. Dugongs are herbivores, and their diet consists primarily of seagrasses. They are also known to eat algae and other aquatic plants.
Common Names
The dugong is known by a variety of common names, including:
- Sea cow
- Dugong
- Sea pig
- Halicore
- Mermaid
Characteristics
Dugongs are large, robust animals that can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in length and weigh up to 400 kilograms (880 pounds). They have a distinctive, torpedo-shaped body with a thick, leathery skin. Their flippers are short and paddle-shaped, and they have a small, forked tail. Dugongs have a small head with a blunt snout and a pair of nostrils located on top of their head. They have small eyes and a single pair of tusks, which are actually enlarged incisor teeth.
Environment
Dugongs are found in shallow, coastal waters with abundant seagrass meadows. They prefer areas with clear water and sandy or muddy bottoms. Dugongs are commonly found in estuaries, bays, and lagoons. Their range extends from eastern Africa to the Pacific Islands.
References
For more information about dugongs, please visit the following websites: