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They live in coastal areas of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines.
Diving- Bajau’s spleens are, on an average, 50% larger than those of general population, a natural adaptation that allows them to live longer and deep diver.
Bajau people dive to 20-30 meters and hold breath for minutes.
This adaptation has been linked to a variation in the PDE10A gene, showcasing the tribe’s remarkable physiological adjustments to their aquatic lifestyle.
Diet- They hunt fish and other sea creatures. They hunt using handmade spears and traditional wooden goggles.
Children learn swimming early.
Habitat -The tribe reside in crafted wooden boats called lepa-lepa, which acts as their home and a primary mode of transportation.
Heritage- Fishing is crucial to the Bajau survival and also showcases their cultural heritage.
Through communal fishing, the Bajau preserve their ancestral traditions while fostering strong social ties within their community.
Threats- Their lifestyle faces threats from increasing tourism, which disrupts traditional fishing routes. Destructive practices like dynamite fishing harm the ecosystem.
