The dugongs can grow up to three metres Iong and weigh as much as 400 kilograms.

Their outside skin consists of fat - it protects them.

Dugongs swim using their tail and they use their front flippers for balance and turning.

Their movements are often slow and graceful. Early explorers and sailors believed that they were mermaids because of their streamlined bodies and the large teats and the base of their flippers. They have a rounded head with small eyes and a large snout.

Under water they can not hold their breath for long, this is espeecially tru if the try to swim fast!

The dugong is a very social animal, because they help each other when in danger.