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Threats to Dugong in India
November 24 , 2025
14 hrs 0 min
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- A new IUCN report highlights threats to dugongs (Sea cows) in India.
- Major Indian habitats include the Gulf of Kutch (Gujarat), the Gulf of Mannar–Palk Bay (Tamil Nadu/Sri Lanka), and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
- Dugongs are marine mammals related to manatees, with a dolphin-like tail.
- Listed as Vulnerable in IUCN Red List and under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 (India) got Schedule I status – highest legal protection.
- Dugongs feed on 30–40 kg of seagrass daily, maintaining seagrass health and supporting marine biodiversity.
- Population estimates: Gulf of Mannar–Palk Bay 150–200, Andaman & Nicobar Islands <50, Gulf of Kutch <20 individuals.
- Threats include fisheries bycatch, habitat loss, coastal pollution, high turbidity, and heavy metals (arsenic, cadmium, chromium, mercury, lead).
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