How many dugongs are left in the world 2020?

The dugong has become extinct around China and Taiwan, and, according to the IUCN, anecdotal evidence suggests that the dugong has declined in many other parts of its range. Along the coasts of East Africa and India, the dugong is likely “highly endangered,” with only about 200 individuals remaining, says Sivakumar.

Are there any dugongs in captivity?

Worldwide, only three dugongs are held in captivity. A female from the Philippines lives at Toba Aquarium in Toba, Mie, Japan.

How many dugongs are left in Australia?

Australia. Australia is home to the largest population, stretching from Shark Bay in Western Australia to Moreton Bay in Queensland. The population of Shark Bay is thought to be stable with over 10,000 dugongs. Smaller populations exist up the coast, including one in Ashmore reef.

Why is dugong endangered?

Threats. 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. This makes the conservation of their shallow water marine habitat very important.

What would happen if dugongs went extinct?

Abu Dhabi If dugongs become extinct, the impact will not be limited merely to the fact that future generations will not get to see the marine mammal — their absence will almost surely have an impact on the availability of sea fish, the staple diet of millions of people across the world.

How many dugongs are left in India?

around 200 individuals
Once abundant in Indian waters, the dugong population is now estimated at around 200 individuals and is believed to be continuously declining in its number and range, according to WII estimates.

How many dugongs are left in the Great Barrier Reef?

Researchers from James Cook University estimated that, overall, there were 2800 dugongs in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, while another 2700 resided north of Hinchinbrook Island and the Queensland-New South Wales border.

Why do dugongs live in shallow water?

Although their food source is below the waves, dugongs can’t be underwater for extended periods. Like other mammals such as whales, dugongs need to breathe air. They can only remain below the surface for up to six minutes at a time, which is most likely why they prefer shallower areas.

How can we save dugongs from extinction?

Whether in protection areas or not, take care to avoid injuring or distressing dugongs. Protect habitat: Avoid damaging seagrass an don’t drag boats over seagrass meadows. Take action to prevent pollutants, nutrients and herbicides from agriculture and other land-based activities flowing into creeks and rivers.

How can we save dugongs and other endangered sea animals?

Why are dugongs closely related to elephants?

Dugongs are sirenians and therefore related to manatees. Though they resemble cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), dugongs and manatees are believed to be descendants of land mammals that make them more closely related to elephants than whales. 5.

Where are dugongs found in India?

Dugongs are protected in India and occur in Gulf of Mannar, PalkBay, Gulf of Kutch and Andaman and Nicobar islands. Once abundant in Indian waters, Dugong population has now reduced to about 200 individuals and is believed to be continuously declining in its number and range.