Dugong "Eugenie" exhibited in San Francisco

Eugenie is a dugong exhibited at the Steinhardt Aquarium in San Francisco. She is notable for being possibly the first dugong in an American zoo or aquarium. Eugenie is half-grown, measuring six feet and weighing 180 pounds. She was transported from New Guinea and receives modern medical care to prevent disease. Dugongs are helpless out of water and need to surface for air every few minutes. Their nostrils have flap valves to close before submerging. Dugongs are linked to the mermaid myth due to their appearance. Eugenie, with her flippers and mermaid-like tail, is a major attraction.

What makes Eugenie a significant exhibit in the American zoo or aquarium?

• She is the first dugong ever exhibited.

• She is the largest sea mammal.

• She can perform tricks.

• She is the oldest marine animal.

How was Eugenie transported to the Steinhardt Aquarium?

• By ship from Australia

• By air from 600 miles above New Guinea

• By train from New York

• By road from Los Angeles

What special care does Eugenie receive to prevent disease?

• Daily sunbathing sessions

• Modern miracle drugs

• A special diet of seaweed

• Regular exercise routines

How often does Eugenie need to breathe air at the surface?

• Every 3 to 7 minutes

• Every 10 to 15 minutes

• Every 1 to 2 minutes

• Every 20 to 30 minutes

What mythological creature is the dugong associated with?

• Unicorn

• Phoenix

• Dragon

• Mermaid