BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Chalermchai Sri-on has raised concern over an increasing number of dugong deaths in Trang province. The fatalities are linked to the rapid degradation of seagrass beds, the primary food source for dugongs, caused by climate variability and deteriorating seawater conditions.
Key feeding grounds in Hat Chao Mai National Park and Mu Ko Libong Non-hunting Area have experienced a 50% decline in seagrass quality and abundance, forcing dugongs to migrate in search of alternative habitats. This alarming trend, which threatens the species’ survival, highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts.
In response, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation have been instructed to implement immediate measures. These include accelerating the restoration of seagrass habitats, introducing supplemental food sources in affected areas, and collaborating with local communities to support dugong conservation efforts.
Both agencies are tasked with acting swiftly and providing regular progress updates to ensure transparency and accountability. The focus will be on safeguarding the remaining dugong population, preventing further losses, and protecting their vital role in Thailand’s marine biodiversity. Chalermchai has announced plans to visit the affected areas after returning from the COP 29 conference in Azerbaijan to review the progress of these conservation efforts. These actions reflect the government’s commitment to preserving dugongs and protecting Thailand’s critical marine ecosystems. (NNT)
