Recent reports from the IUCN have raised alarms about the increasing risk of extinction faced by India's dugongs, commonly known as sea cows. Predominantly found in the Gulf of Kutch, Gulf of Mannar-Palk Bay, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, these marine mammals are struggling for survival. The outlook for their long-term survival is grim, with specific concerns about the uncertain future in the Gulf of Kutch and challenging conditions in the Andamans. Populations in the Gulf of Mannar-Palk Bay have already seen a significant decline.
Dugongs, listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in India. These gentle marine herbivores play a crucial ecological role by maintaining healthy seagrass meadows, which are essential for supporting biodiversity and carbon storage. Despite their importance, dugongs face numerous threats, such as habitat degradation, loss of seagrass, entanglement in fishing nets, boat collisions, pollution, and other human disturbances.
Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are large marine mammals, closely related to manatees, and often associated with mermaid legends due to their calm demeanor. They have rounded bodies and dolphin-like tails, growing up to 10 feet long and weighing approximately 420 kg. As herbivores, dugongs primarily feed on seagrass meadows, consuming up to 40 kg daily.
Their grazing habits are vital for the health of seagrass ecosystems, which serve as efficient carbon sinks. Dugongs help prune the seagrass and enhance carbon storage in the sediment. This process releases nutrients that support a variety of marine life, including fish and shellfish, contributing significantly to local fish production.
Once common in Indian waters, dugong numbers have drastically fallen. Estimates suggest there are between 200 to 450 individuals, though some experts believe the number may be below 250. These populations are small, fragmented, and highly vulnerable.
Dugongs face numerous threats, primarily due to human activities. Fishing-net entanglement is a leading cause of mortality. Pollution from industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and untreated wastewater severely contaminates seagrass meadows, their main feeding grounds. Recent studies found high levels of toxic metals in stranded dugongs, indicating severe ecosystem contamination.
The Indian government has initiated several conservation measures, including establishing a Task Force for Dugong Conservation in 2010 and a national dugong recovery program. A significant step was the creation of the 448 sq km Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay in 2022. However, experts emphasize the need for strengthened conservation efforts, better monitoring, reduced fishing pressures, and community-inclusive conservation actions to ensure dugong populations can recover.
Kutos : AI Assistant!
