Entity: DUGONG
The dugong is an aquatic, herbivorous mammal that inhabits warm coastal waters in southern Asia, Australia, and eastern Africa. Resembling the manatee, it is known for its notched tail divided into two lobes and upper incisors.
Dugong
Etymology
The word 'dugong' derives from the Visayan (probably Cebuano) dugung. The name was first adopted and popularized by the French naturalist Georges-Louis Leclerc, Comte de Buffon, as 'dugon' in Histoire Naturelle (1765), after descriptions of the animal from the island of Leyte in the Philippines. The name ultimately derives from Proto-Malayo-Polynesian *duyuŋ.
Definition
A marine mammal closely related to the manatee, known for its herbivorous diet and distinctive features such as a notched tail and upper incisors.
Historical Context
The dugong has been known to inhabit warm coastal waters chiefly of southern Asia, Australia, and eastern Africa. It has been observed and documented by naturalists and researchers for centuries.
Cultural Significance
In some cultures, the dugong holds symbolic significance and is featured in folklore and traditional beliefs. It is also a subject of conservation efforts due to its endangered status.
Related Concepts
The dugong is closely related to the manatee and shares similar characteristics and habitats. Both species are herbivorous marine mammals that play important roles in their ecosystems.
See Also
A marine mammal closely related to the manatee, known for its herbivorous diet and distinctive features such as a notched tail and upper incisors.