Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Chalermchai Sri-on has voiced concern over the rising dugong deaths in Trang province, attributing the trend to the rapid decline of seagrass beds—the species’ primary food source. Factors such as climate variability and worsening seawater conditions have significantly degraded these habitats, threatening the survival of Thailand’s dwindling dugong population.
Key feeding grounds, including Hat Chao Mai National Park and Mu Ko Libong Non-hunting Area, have seen a 50% decline in seagrass quality and abundance, forcing dugongs to migrate in search of sustenance. The alarming situation underscores the urgent need for coordinated conservation efforts to protect these marine mammals and their habitats.
In response, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation have been directed to take immediate action. Key measures include accelerating seagrass habitat restoration, introducing supplemental food sources, and collaborating with local communities to enhance dugong conservation initiatives.
The agencies have been tasked with providing regular updates on their progress to ensure accountability and transparency. Minister Chalermchai has also announced plans to visit the affected areas after attending the COP 29 conference in Azerbaijan to assess the implementation of these conservation efforts.
The measures reflect Thailand’s commitment to preserving the dugong population and safeguarding the country’s vital marine ecosystems, reinforcing the species’ essential role in maintaining biodiversity
