Ethology and Behavioral Ecology of Sirenia

Sirenian conservation biology is examined in this book through the lens of their behavioral ecology and ethology, with an emphasis on data gathered in the past 15 years.

Format: Hardback
Length: 417 pages
Publication date: 10 May 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Despite their rich fossil history, there are only four surviving species of sirenians or sea cows, the only fully aquatic herbivorous mammals. The three species of manatees and the dugong live in the coastal waters, rivers, and lakes of more than 80 tropical and subtropical countries and are all on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This book examines sirenian conservation biology through the lens of their behavioral ecology and ethology. Sirenian feeding, diving, movement, social, and reproductive behaviors are reviewed by an international team of scientists from eight countries, with an emphasis on data gathered in the past 15 years.

Sirenians, also known as sea cows, are a fascinating group of fully aquatic herbivorous mammals with a rich fossil history. Despite their ancient lineage, only four surviving species remain today. These remarkable creatures inhabit the coastal waters, rivers, and lakes of over 80 tropical and subtropical countries, making them a global conservation concern.

The three species of manatees, namely the West Indian manatee, Amazonian manatee, and African manatee, are particularly vulnerable. They face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and human-wildlife conflict. These majestic giants play an important role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems by grazing on aquatic plants and promoting biodiversity.

The dugong, on the other hand, is a relative of the manatee and shares its habitat in the coastal waters of Australia and Southeast Asia. While less threatened than manatees, dugongs are also under pressure from habitat degradation, pollution, and fishing activities. They are important indicators of marine health and play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.

Understanding the conservation biology of sirenians is crucial for their protection and survival. This book examines sirenian conservation biology through the lens of their behavioral ecology and ethology. An international team of scientists from eight countries has contributed to this comprehensive review, focusing on data gathered in the past 15 years.

Sirenian feeding behaviors are diverse and complex. They primarily consume aquatic plants, such as seagrass, mangroves, and algae, using their specialized teeth and digestive system. Manatees, for example, have a unique baleen plate that allows them to filter out small particles from the water, while dugongs use their long snouts to forage for food on the seafloor.

Diving is another important aspect of sirenian biology. Manatees and dugongs are capable of deep diving, reaching depths of over 100 meters. These dives provide them with access to a variety of food sources and help them regulate their body temperature and oxygen levels. However, prolonged diving can also be stressful and may lead to health problems.

Sirenian movement patterns are also fascinating. Manatees are slow-moving, herbivorous mammals that prefer calm waters. They use their flippers to propel themselves through the water and can travel long distances between feeding sites. Dugongs, on the other hand, are more agile and can move at speeds of up to 10 kilometers per hour. They use their tail to propel themselves and are known for their playful behavior in the water.

Sirenian social behavior is complex and varied. Manatees are social animals that live in groups called herds. These herds can vary in size from just a few individuals to hundreds of animals. They communicate with each other using a variety of vocalizations, including clicks, whistles, and grunts. Dugongs, on the other hand, are less social and tend to live alone or in small groups.

Reproductive behavior in sirenians is also unique. Manatees are polygynous, meaning that males mate with multiple females in a breeding season. Females give birth to a single calf after a gestation period of approximately 12 to 18 months. Dugongs, on the other hand, are monogamous and mate for life. Males and females form a pair bond and engage in courtship rituals to strengthen their relationship.

Despite their resilience and adaptability, sirenians face numerous threats to their survival. Habitat loss and degradation, pollution, and climate change are the primary drivers of their decline. Human activities such as hunting, fishing, and tourism also pose significant risks to these animals.

Conservation efforts to protect sirenians are ongoing and multifaceted. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and local communities are working together to create protected areas, implement sustainable fishing practices, and raise awareness about the importance of these animals. Research and monitoring programs are also essential for understanding the status of sirenian populations and identifying conservation priorities.

In conclusion, sirenians, or sea cows, are a unique and fascinating group of fully aquatic herbivorous mammals with a rich fossil history. Despite their resilience and adaptability, they face numerous threats to their survival. Conservation efforts are essential for their protection and survival, and it is crucial that we continue to work together to protect these remarkable creatures and their habitats.

Weight: 816g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030907419
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022