05/05/2026
They’re often mistaken for the same gentle giant—but they’re not 🐋
Dugongs and manatees may share a similar calm presence, but they live very different lives. Dugongs are true ocean dwellers, found in coastal saltwater like ours, grazing quietly on seagrass beds that are vital to marine ecosystems. Manatees, on the other hand, are more adaptable—moving between freshwater rivers and coastal areas, with a broader diet and paddle-shaped tails.
Why does this matter? Because when we understand the difference, we understand what to protect. In Brunei, the dugong isn’t just rare—it’s a symbol of the health of our seagrass ecosystems.
Know the difference. Protect what’s ours. 🌊