10 Rare Animals Found in the Indian Ocean

16 /AUGUST/ 2025

Coelacanth

The Coelacanth is an ancient fish that was thought to have been extinct for millions of years until it was rediscovered off the coast of Africa in 1938. 

Photo Credit :: Google

Dugong

The Dugong or sea cow is a friendly sea mammal that grazes on seagrass. Dugongs are found predominantly in the Gulf of Mannar and Andaman and Nicobar Islands and are a rare species that contribute significantly to ensuring the health of the seagrass ecosystem.

Photo Credit :: Google

Blue Whale

The Blue Whale is the largest creature on the planet, growing up to 100 feet in length. The ocean giants are critically endangered with serious threats such as ship strikes, fishing gear entanglement, and underwater noise pollution. 

Photo Credit :: Google

Aldabra Giant Tortoise

The Aldabra Giant Tortoise occurs naturally on the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles. They are one of the largest and longest-living tortoises on Earth, with some living more than 200 years. 

Photo Credit :: Google

Hawksbill Sea Turtle

Hawksbill Sea Turtle has the most beautiful shell, and as a result, they are victims of poaching. They occur in Indian Ocean islands and are vulnerable to habitat loss and poaching. 

Photo Credit :: Google

Whale Shark

The Whale Shark is the largest fish in the world. Although they are relatively huge, they are filter feeders and not dangerous to humans.  

Photo Credit :: Google

Manta Ray

The Manta Ray is a beautiful creature famous for its huge wingspan and elegant swimming. Seen many times off the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, manta rays are harmless and gentle, which is why they are popular among scuba diver

Photo Credit :: Google

Humpback Dolphin

The Humpback Dolphin occurs in India's coastal waters and can be recognized by a prominent hump on the back. They inhabit shallow water and are seldom found, and thus they are easily affected by human activities and environmental factors.

Photo Credit :: Google

Napoleon Wrasse

The Napoleon Wrasse, or humphead wrasse, is a big, highly colorful reef fish which occurs from the Maldives to Southeast Asia. Because of overfishing and their low rate of reproduction, they are becoming rarer in the wild.

Photo Credit :: Google

Spiny Dogfish

The Spiny Dogfish is a shy and small species of shark that inhabits the Indian Ocean's deeper waters. They are being overfished and have their deep-sea habitat changed, making them vulnerable to declining populations.

Photo Credit :: Google

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