How to spot the Dugong when scuba diving
Dugong dugon
Wide but fragmented range across tropical and subtropical coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific, from East Africa (Red Sea) through coastal Asia, Philippines, Indonesia, down to Vanuatu, and northern Australia (which holds the largest population). Absent from the Atlantic/Americas.
Can potentially be seen year-round where resident populations exist. Dry season often offers better visibility (e.g., Nov-May in Coron, Philippines). Sightings depend heavily on finding active feeding areas.
Tropical and subtropical coastal waters.
Shallow, sheltered coastal areas with abundant seagrass beds (their primary food). Found in protected bays, mangrove channels, and nearshore islands. Specific locations include parts of northern Australia (e.g., Shark Bay, Moreton Bay), Red Sea (e.g., Marsa Alam, Egypt), Philippines (e.g., Coron, Busuanga), Vanuatu. Encounters typically involve snorkeling tours with local spotters. Passive observation from a distance is key as they are shy.
Worldwide observation of the Dugong
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Data sources
- Photos: Wikimedia Commons
- Distribution and specie data: GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility)
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