What is happening to the dugongs on Thailand's Andaman Coast?

The dugong population on Thailand's Andaman Coast has significantly declined, with roughly half of the animals disappearing due to a massive seagrass die-off.

Why are the dugongs in Thailand dying?

Scientists believe a large-scale die-off of seagrass, the dugongs' primary food source, is the main reason for their decline. The exact causes of the seagrass loss are still under investigation.

What is being done to help the dugongs in Tang Khen Bay?

Locals and conservationists are working to protect the remaining dugongs, like Miracle, by monitoring their presence and attempting to deter threats such as fishing boats.

Home / Environment / Seagrass Mystery: Why Are Thailand's Dugongs Vanishing?

Seagrass Mystery: Why Are Thailand's Dugongs Vanishing?

20 Jan

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Summary

Thailand's Andaman coast dugong population has critically declined.
A massive seagrass die-off is the likely cause of dugong deaths.
Scientists are investigating unknown factors impacting the seagrass.

Seagrass Mystery: Why Are Thailand's Dugongs Vanishing?

The dugong population along Thailand's Andaman Coast has experienced a devastating decline, with an estimated half of the animals lost in recent years. Once a sanctuary, Tang Khen Bay now hosts only one known dugong, Miracle, after its companion died last year.

An international scientific mission in January 2025 identified a massive seagrass die-off as the probable reason for the dugongs' plight. This crucial food source for dugongs has severely diminished, particularly in Trang province.

While the exact causes of the seagrass die-off remain unclear, potential factors include siltation, pollution, dredging, warming seas, and changing tidal patterns. Climate change is also considered a significant contributing factor.