dugon

The dugong (Dugong dugon) is a large herbivorous marine mammal and the sole extant member of the family Dugongidae. The common spelling "dugong" is standard; "dugon" is a frequent misspelling.

Distribution and habitat: It inhabits shallow coastal waters of the Indian and western Pacific Oceans, from eastern Africa to northern Australia. It favors seagrass beds in warm, protected coastal areas.

Description: Adults typically reach 2.4–3.0 meters in length and weigh roughly 240–450 kilograms. The body is fusiform with a paddle-shaped tail, and forelimbs adapted for steering; there is no dorsal fin. The snout is downturned for grazing.

Diet and ecology: Dugongs feed almost exclusively on seagrass and can travel long distances to feed. They play a role in shaping seagrass meadows and nutrient cycling.

Behavior and reproduction: Dugongs are generally slow-moving and may be solitary or form small groups. Calves stay with mothers for up to 18 months. Gestation lasts about a year.

Conservation and threats: The IUCN lists dugongs as Vulnerable. Main threats include habitat loss and degradation of seagrass beds, entanglement in fishing gear, boat strikes, and hunting in some regions. Protected areas, bycatch reduction, and seagrass restoration are among conservation measures.

See also: Dugongidae, sea cow, seagrass ecosystems.