Dolphins are a widely distributed and diverse group of aquatic mammals.
Comparing species' relative intelligence is complicated by differences in sensory
apparatus, response modes, and nature of cognition.
Comparing species' relative intelligence is complicated by differences in sensory
apparatus, response modes, and nature of cognition.
Appearence
• They have streamlined bodies and two limbs that are modified into flippers. Though not quite as flexible as seals, some dolphins can travel at 55.5 km/h.
• Dolphins range in size from the 1.7 m (5.6 ft) long and 50 kg M to the 9.5 m (31 ft) and 10 t (11 short tons)
Fact
• Dolphins use their conical shaped teeth to capture fast moving prey.
• They have well-developed hearing which is adapted for both air and water and is so well developed that some can survive even if they are blind.
• Some species are well adapted for diving to great depths. They have a layer of fat, or blubber under the skin to keep warm in the cold water.
• Sleeping dolphin in captivity: a tail kick reflex keeps the dolphin's blowhole above the water
Behavior
• Dolphins are highly social animals. Dolphins can, however, establish strong social bonds; they will stay with injured or ill individuals, even helping them to breathe by bringing them to the surface if needed.
• Dolphins communicate using a variety of clicks, whistle-like sounds and other vocalizations. Dolphins also use nonverbal communication by means of touch and posturing.
Habitat
Dolphins are widespread, most species prefer the warmer waters of the tropic zones, but some, like the right whale dolphin, prefer colder climates.
Feed
Dolphins feed largely on fish and squid, but a few, like the killer whale, feed on large mammals, like seals.
Dolphins feed largely on fish and squid, but a few, like the killer whale, feed on large mammals, like seals.
Reproduction
Dolphin copulation happens belly to belly; The gestation period varies with species; for the small Tucuxi dolphin, this period is around 11 to 12 months,while for the orca, the gestation period is around 17 months. Typically dolphins give birth to a single calf, which is, unlike most other mammals, born tail first in most cases. They usually become sexually active at a young age, even before reaching sexual maturity.
Dolphin copulation happens belly to belly; The gestation period varies with species; for the small Tucuxi dolphin, this period is around 11 to 12 months,while for the orca, the gestation period is around 17 months. Typically dolphins give birth to a single calf, which is, unlike most other mammals, born tail first in most cases. They usually become sexually active at a young age, even before reaching sexual maturity.
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