10 Animals Similar To The Dugong And How To Tell Them Apart

When we think of marine life, the image of sleek dolphins or colorful coral reefs might spring to mind. But what about the gentle dugong? Often overshadowed by its more popular relatives, the dugong is a fascinating creature that roams the warm coastal waters of the Indian and western Pacific oceans. With its distinct size and serene grazing habits, it’s easy to see how it garners interest. However, the dugong isn’t alone in the ocean. There are many other animals that bear similarities to it.

So, how do we differentiate the dugong from its aquatic neighbors? Let’s dive into the murky waters of marine animals and explore ten species that resemble the dugong in various ways. Just like picking out a familiar face in a crowd, spotting the differences among these creatures can be quite the adventure.

Before we start comparing, let’s take a closer look at the dugong itself. Dugongs are large marine mammals, often referred to as “sea cows.” They have a unique, teardrop-shaped body and can grow up to 10 feet long. Their skin is a grayish-brown color, often with a wrinkly texture. Unlike their distant relatives, the manatees, dugongs have a fluked tail, sort of like a dolphin.

One of the most intriguing facts about dugongs is their diet. They primarily feed on seagrass, which makes them key players in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Their slow-moving nature and gentle grazing habits make them a beloved sight for divers and snorkelers alike.

If you see a large, gentle animal gliding through warm waters, it might just be a manatee. Often said to be the dugong’s closest relative, the manatee is also a marine herbivore but can be found in freshwater as well as saltwater.