Description

Copyright infringement not intended

Source: Rehahan

Context

According to research, Bajau spleens are on average 50% larger than those of the general population, a natural adaptation that allows them to live longer and dive deeper.

About the Bajau Tribe

Region	Coastal areas of Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines
Diving Ability	Bajau spleens are ~50% larger than average, allowing them to dive deeper and stay underwater longer
Depth & Duration	Dive to 20–30 meters and hold breath for several minutes
Genetic Adaptation	Linked to a variation in the PDE10A gene, enhancing oxygen efficiency underwater
Diet & Hunting	Hunt fish and sea creatures using handmade spears and traditional wooden goggles
Early Training	Children begin learning to swim at a very young age
Habitat	Live in lepa-lepa, wooden boats that serve as both homes and transportation
Cultural Heritage	Fishing is vital to survival and an expression of cultural heritage; communal fishing strengthens social bonds
Threats	Rising tourism disrupts fishing routes; destructive practices like dynamite fishing damage marine ecosystems

Geographic Distribution

The Bajau are found in the coastal areas of:

Indonesia (especially Sulawesi and North Maluku)
Malaysia (particularly Sabah in Borneo)
The Philippines (especially the Sulu Archipelago)

Source: TOI

Practice Question:

Q. The Bajau tribe, known for their exceptional free-diving abilities, primarily inhabit which of the following regions?

A. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
B. Coastal regions of Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines
C. Pacific Islands of Polynesia
D. Eastern coast of Africa near Madagascar