WWF Thailand and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) led a team of world-renowned seagrass and dugong experts, including Dr. Leonard McKenzie and Dr. Helene Marsh, on a field survey to assess the status of seagrass meadows and dugongs in Trang, Krabi, Phang Nga, and Phuket from January 20-27, 2025. The main objective was to evaluate the current status of the vital coastal ecosystems, which are crucial for the survival of dugongs in Thailand.
We extend our gratitude to the local DMCR offices, researchers from Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya (RMUTSV) and Prince of Songkla University (PSU), officials from Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, as well as representatives from Save Andaman Network Foundation (SAN), Ban Bohin Community Enterprise, and Ban Bang Phat Community for their collaboration and support.
While observing a drone survey, the team caught a fleeting glimpse of five dugongs before they gracefully dove back into the sandy seabed. Dugongs are rarely seen during such expeditions, thus the researchers were able to document this unusual sighting. However, this promising encounter came with growing concerns. Seagrass meadows were determined to be in severe condition at numerous survey sites. The degradation of these habitats threatens the dugongs’ principal food source, and reports of dugong carcasses and their migration away from their traditional habitats highlight the urgency of conservation efforts.
Despite these challenges, the team also identified some positive indicators. Seagrass meadows in Krabi and Phuket appear to be on the verge of recovery. Notably, in Krabi, a baby dugong was reported in August 2024, and during the survey, the team saw dugong mating behavior at Ao Tang Khen. This is a positive sign that these marine mammals are adjusting to new habitats and working to maintain their numbers.
The Path to Conservation
To ensure that the Andaman Sea remains a safe home for dugongs, key conservation efforts including:
- Seagrass restoration: prioritize areas where degradation factors can be effectively managed.
- Continue and expand protection of key habitats.
- Dugong Population Monitoring: Continue and possibly expand population monitoring by DMCR and local communities via drones and aircraft.
This survey was not just a scientific study; it was a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders in protecting seagrass meadows and dugongs—the heart of the marine ecosystem.
Let’s work together to restore and protect our ocean!
