Dugongs [Dugongidae]
Description
Dugongidae is the family that encompasses the dugong (Dugong dugon), which is the only extant member of this family. Dugongs are large marine mammals known for their distinctive fusiform body shape, fluked tail, and paddle-like forelimbs. Unlike other marine mammals that might have similar features, dugongs are unique in their diet, feeding primarily on seagrass in coastal waters. They are found in warm coastal waters from East Africa to Australia, including the Red Sea, Indian Ocean, and Pacific Ocean. The dugong is closely related to manatees, and together, these creatures are the only living representatives of the order Sirenia. Dugongs play a crucial role in marine ecosystems, particularly in the health and maintenance of seagrass beds.