The Seas/ Contents

Sea mammals

Saifullah A. Jaaman

Almost 20 species of sea mammals have been recorded in Malaysian waters to date. The main species are dolphins, whales and the dugong. Until recently there has been very little research into this group of creatures, and detailed population numbers and up-to-date habitat surveys are not yet available. Some species have been hunted for centuries, others are considered dangerous by local populations and, despite international bans on their killing, many species, having been severely affected by modern fishing techniques and pollution in recent decades, are on the endangered list.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • Malaysia’s sea mammal inhabitants
  • Habitats
  • Endangered species
  • Conservation measures
Whale

Short-finned pilot whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus)