Observations of dugongs at Aldabra Atoll, western Indian Ocean: lagoon habitat mapping and spatial analysis of sighting records

A significant cluster of dugong sightings was identified at Aldabra Atoll, challenging the belief that dugongs were extinct in the Seychelles. Spatial analysis revealed a strong association between dugong presence and seagrass beds, particularly in the north-west lagoon area known as Bras Monsieur Clairemont. Researchers combined historical sighting records with high-resolution benthic habitat mapping derived from satellite imagery to determine dugong distribution patterns. The study highlights the central western region of Aldabra's lagoon as the most suitable habitat for dugongs, providing critical insights into their conservation in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hamylton, S. M., Hagan, A. B., & Doak, N. (2012). Observations of dugongs at Aldabra Atoll, western Indian Ocean: lagoon habitat mapping and spatial analysis of sighting records. International Journal of Geographical Information Science, 26(5), 839–853. https://doi.org/10.1080/13658816.2011.616510