Core Insights - The discovery of the endangered Dugong in the waters near Yongshu Reef marks a significant finding, filling a gap in species distribution in the region and providing the first scientific evidence of the species in the South China Sea in nearly 30 years [2] Group 1: Species Discovery - The monitoring team observed the Dugong, a critically endangered species, in the nearshore waters of Yongshu Reef starting from July 8, with continuous sightings over the following month [1] - This is the first time the Dugong has been recorded in the area, which was previously declared functionally extinct along the Chinese mainland coast [2] Group 2: Ecological Significance - The Dugong plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of seagrass bed ecosystems, promoting seagrass renewal and maintaining biodiversity [2] - The presence of the Dugong, along with previously recorded sightings of the Green Sea Turtle and Hawksbill Turtle, highlights the unique ecological value of the Yongshu Reef ecosystem [2] Group 3: Research Implications - The findings provide critical clues for studying the impacts of global changes and human activities on the migratory patterns of the Dugong [2] - Further monitoring is needed to understand why the Dugong was observed alone, as they typically prefer to be in family groups [3]