Dugong

The dugong (Dugong dugon), often known as the “sea cow,” is a large marine herbivorous mammal that inhabits the shallow coastal waters of tropical and subtropical regions.
Dugongs depend heavily on seagrass meadows, which provide their primary food source and are essential for their survival.
They graze on seagrasses including Halodule, Halophila and Cymodocea species. With a long lifespan, low reproductive rate and long intervals between generations, dugong populations are particularly vulnerable to human-induced threats.

Dugongs are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and are classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Their populations are declining due to habitat degradation and loss, accidental capture in fishing gear, hunting and poaching, marine pollution and the impacts of climate change.
 

Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay

          Recognizing the importance of Palk Bay as a dugong habitat, the Government of Tamil Nadu notified the Dugong Conservation Reserve in 2022, following consultations with coastal communities, particularly local fishing communities. The reserve provides an important framework for protecting dugongs and their seagrass habitats while promoting sustainable and community-supported conservation.

OMCAR’s Dugong Conservation Work
 

           OMCAR Foundation has been working continuously for dugong conservation in Palk Bay through awareness, education, research, habitat conservation and community participation. Our programmes focus on increasing understanding of the ecological importance, conservation status and threats faced by dugongs, as well as promoting responsible practices for protecting their habitats.
 

           OMCAR conducts awareness programmes, workshops and training programmes for students, fishing communities, coastal stakeholders and frontline forest officials. These programmes cover dugong ecology, major threats, habitat protection, responsible fishing practices, and appropriate approaches to dugong rescue, handling and release.
 

          OMCAR has also contributed to the conservation efforts leading to the establishment of the Palk Bay Dugong Conservation Reserve.OMCAR Foundation submitted a motion to recognise India’s first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay as an important milestone for dugong conservation. The motion was adopted and recognised at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, marking an important international recognition of the conservation significance of the Palk Bay Dugong Conservation Reserve.