D. Gonzalez-Socoloske, Nat Geo Explorer: "Dugongs promote biodiversity "
Why did you choose to talk to us about dugongs?
I met Prashant Mohesh, a Mauritian National Geographic Explorer, in the United States. Being passionate about manatees, my first question to him was whether there were any manatees in Mauritius. His answer was no. After conducting in-depth research, I discovered that dugongs, close relatives of manatees and part of the sirenian family, once lived in Mauritian waters. French explorers nicknamed them "sea cows," likely due to their exclusively herbivorous diet. Hunted for their meat and fat, these creatures have since disappeared from Mauritius. Dugongs play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, making them essential for marine biodiversity conservation. Found along the coasts of the Indian Ocean, the western Pacific Ocean, and the Red Sea, dugongs are now an endangered species.
You have suggested the idea of reintroducing them to Mauritius. What conditions must be met?
Dugongs feed exclusively on seagrass, with an individual consuming up to 40 kilograms per day. The first step would be to assess the presence of seagrass beds in Mauritian waters and conduct a thorough study of their distribution. Next, we would need to secure funding and collaborate with the local community. Raising awareness and educating the local population about the ecological importance of dugongs would also be key elements in ensuring the success of this reintroduction project.
Given that dugongs disappeared from Mauritius in the 17th century, what are the ecological and environmental implications of their reintroduction?
In the long term, the implications would be positive, as dugongs enrich seagrass habitats, promoting their development. These benefits would extend to the entire marine ecosystem. Dugongs are known as marine gardeners, enhancing biodiversity, producing oxygen, and preserving seagrass beds. They are considered umbrella species, meaning their presence supports a wide range of other marine life. Additionally, their reintroduction could boost eco-tourism and contribute to the economic development of Mauritius' coastal regions.
If dugongs were reintroduced to Mauritius, what are the chances of success?
It is difficult to predict, as such an initiative has never been attempted before. Anything worthwhile is challenging, and there will certainly be complications and obstacles. I can't give you a percentage of success, but I believe that with patience and perseverance, it is better to try than to do nothing. The success of this initiative will also depend on the implementation of effective monitoring and management measures to ensure the long-term survival of the reintroduced population.
How can people support this project?
Everyone, from teachers to restaurant owners, can help raise awareness about dugongs—they are part of our marine heritage. Boat owners can contribute by offering their vessels for research and conservation efforts. Additionally, government agencies and international conservation organizations could provide crucial financial and technical support for this reintroduction initiative.
Australia is one of the countries where dugongs are still found in their natural habitats, particularly along the tropical and subtropical coasts of northern Australia. Due to their expertise in dugong conservation and research, Australian scientists are often consulted for projects involving this species, both nationally and internationally. Their knowledge of dugong biology, ecology, and population management makes them ideal candidates for forming a scientific advisory board for the reintroduction project in Mauritius.
If the project moves forward, we plan to reintroduce 10 males and 25 females in areas where dugongs would have the best chances of thriving.
Dugongs belong to the sirenian family. Sirenians are an order of herbivorous marine mammals that include both dugongs and manatees. Dugongs (Dugong dugon) and manatees belong to the family Dugongidae, under the order Sirenia. These marine creatures are characterized by their large, streamlined bodies, paddle-like pectoral flippers, and primarily herbivorous diet, feeding on seagrass.