Can Dugongs Return to China? Restoring Seagrass Beds and International Cooperation May Hold the Key | Linda Wong's Interview With CGTN

In a recent interview by  China Global Television Network (CGTN), Linda Wong, deputy secretary general of China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF)  and Editor-in-Chief of OceanWetlands, emphased on technology and international cooperation in ocean and wetland conservation as both timely and crucial. As we grapple with the escalating challenges posed by climate change and habitat loss, innovative solutions are more imperative than ever.

The above image shows a subtle group of dugongs a hundred meters away from the research boat. Studying these marine mammals is incredibly difficult due to their shy nature and elusive behavior. As marine biologist Professor John MK Wong explains, dugongs, unlike dolphins, rarely surface and are easily startled, especially in rough seas. Even in calm waters, spotting large groups requires advanced aerial surveys. Dugongs spend most of their time underwater feeding or resting, surfacing only briefly to breathe. Their solitary nature and long dive times make them challenging to observe in the wild. © Photo: John MK Wong, MECC Qatar | OceanWetlands

One promising avenue lies in the application of advanced technologies. Drones and remote sensing offer unprecedented capabilities to monitor wetland ecosystems and track changes over time. By employing these tools, scientists can gain valuable insights into the health of wetlands, the behavior of wetland-dependent species, and the impacts of human activities. 

For instance, the successful monitoring of dugong populations in Qatar demonstrates how technology can provide vital data for conservation efforts.

The dugong, a very shy species, is now functionally extinct in China. Despite the overall decline globally, there are still significant dugong populations in certain regions, notably Australia and Qatar. For example, Qatar is home to the world’s second-largest dugong population, with 600-700 individuals. In January, scientists at the Qatar's Environment and Climate Department monitored its population, successfully identifying 224 dugongs, including 27 mother-calf pairs—about 14% of the group. This indicates healthy reproduction, ample food sources, and a secure habitat, showcasing the power of technology to support biodiversity data.

Linda Wong also mentioned international cooperation is equally essential for effective wetland conservation. The case of the dugong highlights the interconnectedness of global ecosystems and the potential for cross-border collaboration. The practices of Qatar's dugong conservation and biodiversity monitoring efforts could serve as a model for other regions seeking to restore depleted populations or re-introduce regionally extinct species. Such collaboration can also foster the creation of international protected areas and corridors, providing safe havens for migratory species and supporting the connectivity of wetland ecosystems.

Given the migratory behavior of dugongs, she envisioned a future where these marine mammals return to China. This would necessitate habitat restoration and international cooperation, potentially involving reintroduction initiatives.

The CBCGDF was founded in response to the successful reintroduction of Père David's deer (Milu), a species once native to China but driven to extinction in the wild. Thanks to the Duke of Bedford, a small population was preserved and reintroduced to China in 1985. The growth of this population from 20 to over 13,000 individuals today is a testament to the power of conservation efforts and the importance of international cooperation.


(Please note: This article is a routine work record. It is for information only.)


Reporter: Wendy

Reviewer: Richard

Date: 2024-10-31

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