What is the maximum lifespan of a dugong?
The dugong is a stocky slow-moving marine mammal that can be found living in and around warm coastal waters between the east coast of Africa and the Pacific ocean. These marine mammals are known for their unique appearance and herbivorous nature.
Dugong can reach lengths of 8–10 ft. (2-3 meters) long and weigh between 550–1,000 lbs (220-450 kg) when fully grown.
The average gestation period for dugong appears to be between 13–15 months. After birth, the female dugong will nurse her child for up to 18 months.
Healthy dugong may live until the age of 70.
More Info:
www.whalefacts.org
What are your thoughts on this subject?
11 Comments
Mary Ruth Martell
Are they related to the manatee??
Player
Mary Ruth Martell, yes they are both sirenians.
Helga U. Williams
Certainly resembles the manatee. Good question and educational commentary. I had never heard of the species before!
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fdeisner
Mary Ruth Martell,
I had the same thought when I saw the picture. As manatees have a long life span it negates three of the choices.
Joe Mangan
Agnes Forder, you got that from 'Who Do You Think You Are.'
Agnes Forder
Dugongs and Manatees are first cousins with the elephant distantly related.
Paddy Walsh
The original Mermaid !!
Jacqueline Tattam
They are vulnerable to extinction ….hunted and killed by humans 😓
Edie Koller
I think they are related to the manatee
Pat Wells
More answer choices that give away the correct answer. Good question and interesting information, however.
Lawanta
An interesting animal... I've never heard of it before!