Sharks and dugongs serve as barometers of the marine ecosystem, but many people overlook their critical roles, perceiving sharks as menacing figures and dugongs as mythical creatures.

Ahead of World Oceans Day on 8 June, UN News’s Jing Zhang spoke with Gabriel Grimsditch, a programme management officer at the UN Environment Programme’s marine and coastal ecosystem unit based in Nairobi, Kenya.

In this exclusive interview, Mr. Grimsditch delved deep into the fascinating world beneath the waves, shedding light on the importance of these often misunderstood creatures in maintaining the health and balance of our oceans.