The Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea) also known as the Australian sea-lion or Australian sealion, is a species of sea lion that is the only endemic pinniped in Australia. It is currently monotypic in the genus Neophoca, with the extinct Pleistocene New Zealand sea lion Neophoca palatina the only known congener.

The Neophoca cinerea, is a species that is endemic to Australia. It is one of the most endangered species of pinnipeds, with a remaining population of about 10,000 to 12,000 individuals (Seal Conservation Society, 2011). The generic name, Neophoca is Greek, and means “new seal”. The species name of cinerea is the Greek word for “asch-colored”.

The Australian sea lion, Neophoca cinerea, is Australia?s only endemic pinniped, and one of the rarest sea lions in the world. This species suffered localised extinction events, and a probable population decline during the commercial sealing era of the 18th to 20th centuries.

Neophoca cinerea (Australian Sea-lion) 2. Description The Australian Sea-lion is Australia's only endemic and least numerous seal species. It belongs to the Otariidae family, which includes all seals with ear flaps and seals which can propel themselves through the water using their front flippers.