Occurrence and distribution of marine endangered species in Kuala Terengganu waters

Abstract

This study was conducted at Kuala Terengganu, Terengganu. The questionnaire survey was used in this study. The focussing group in this study is mainly fishermen of Kuala Terengganu waters. After interview survey was done, the data will be managed in Microsoft Spread sheet Excel. The data then will be analysed by using Chi-square test. The occurrence and distribution of marine mammals, turtles and whale sharks in Kuala Terengganu waters were recorded. There are four species of turtles, six species of dolphins, three species of whales, one and only species of whale shark and one stranding dugong has been observed by the respondents. Meanwhile, the level of awareness on conservation of marine mammals, turtles and whale shark in Kuala Terengganu was considered as high. However, the education level in Kuala Terengganu did not differentiate the level of public awareness of the respondents regarding the conservation of marine mammals, turtles and whale shark. Nevertheless, the suggestion, opinion and improvement of conservation strategies are eventually going to play a significant role in monitoring and maintaining the marine mammals, turtles and whale sharks population in Kuala Terengganu. Therefore, the information gathered will serve as a basic plan for conservation efforts and to continue in-depth long-term studies of marine mammals, turtles and whale sharks in Malaysia.