Dugongs are fascinating marine herbivores, often compared to manatees due to their similar appearance. Found primarily around the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, and the Gulf of Kachchh in India, these gentle creatures are the only herbivorous marine mammals in the region. Unfortunately, they are currently classified as regionally endangered.
Seagrass is crucial for the survival of dugongs, as it serves as their primary food source. It also plays a vital role in maintaining marine biodiversity by providing shelter to fish, turtles, and invertebrates, enhancing water quality, and storing carbon. The degradation of seagrass habitats poses significant threats not only to dugongs but also to the broader coastal marine ecosystem.
Dugongs have a slow reproductive rate, reaching sexual maturity only after 10 years and producing offspring every 3 to 7 years. This slow growth rate means that their populations are vulnerable to decline, making recovery a challenging prospect.
The Indian government has declared dugongs a protected species under the Wildlife Protection Act. In 2021, Tamil Nadu established the country's first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay. These measures, along with habitat mapping and community involvement, aim to safeguard the future of dugongs.
This government-backed initiative focuses on mapping dugong habitats, restoring seagrass beds, and mitigating harmful fishing practices. It also emphasizes training coastal communities and raising awareness to reduce human impact on these vital habitats.
Local fishers can contribute significantly by adopting sustainable fishing practices, avoiding trawlers in dugong habitats, and participating in sighting reports. Their traditional knowledge is invaluable in identifying healthy seagrass meadows.
Globally, dugongs are classified as vulnerable, with their populations declining due to human activity and habitat loss. The Indian Ocean and western Pacific regions are their primary habitats, but even here, their numbers are dwindling.
Significant conservation sites in India include the Palk Bay Dugong Reserve, the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve, and the Gulf of Kachchh Marine National Park. These areas are crucial for supporting dugong populations and their seagrass habitats.
Protecting dugongs aids in conserving entire marine ecosystems. Seagrass beds store carbon, support fisheries, and help reduce coastal erosion. India's commitment to dugong protection aligns with broader biodiversity and climate goals. As a signatory to the Convention on Migratory Species, India plays a crucial role in international conservation efforts.
The ultimate goal is to establish a network of protected seagrass areas, supported by local communities and sustainable coastal development. Regular scientific monitoring is essential to ensure that dugongs not only survive but thrive in Indian waters.
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