2026-2027 Faculty Research Grants

Daniel Gonzalez-Socoloske (Biology). 

Preliminary assessment of the status and distribution of dugongs in Papua New Guinea.

Dugongs (Dugong dugon) are medium-sized marine mammals related to manatees that inhabit tropical coastal waters of the Indo-West Pacific, from East Africa to the western Pacific Islands. They feed exclusively on seagrass and are listed as Vulnerable globally, with some subpopulations classified as Endangered or Critically Endangered. Despite their wide distribution, significant knowledge gaps remain, particularly outside Australia and Southeast Asia. Papua New Guinea (PNG), located north of Australia, shares the world’s largest dugong population with Australia in the
Torres Strait region. Historical surveys conducted in the 1970s documented dugongs along PNG’s northern and southern coasts and nearby islands, with later interviews in the 2010s confirmed sightings in Manus and Bougainville islands. However, no nationwide study has ever been conducted, and there are no reliable population estimates due to the absence of standardized survey methods. In 2024, discussions with senior PNG officials, including representatives from the National Fisheries Authority and the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA), highlighted that despite the dugong being recognized as the national animal, there is a lack of comprehensive national research. Here I propose a collaborative, multi-year project between my lab and PNG agencies aimed at addressing these gaps. Phase I involves preliminary surveys, stakeholder meetings, and community interviews to inform a larger grant proposal. Phase II would include local capacity building, standardized field research, genetic and cultural studies, threat assessments, and policy development. This project will emphasize local training and student development to strengthen PNG’s long-term marine conservation leadership.