Gray Whale [Eschrichtius]

Description

Eschrichtius is the sole genus within the family Eschrichtiidae, represented by one living species, the gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus). This genus is characterized by its robust body, mottled gray skin, and the absence of a dorsal fin, which is replaced by a prominent dorsal hump followed by a series of knuckles along the dorsal ridge. Gray whales are baleen whales, using their baleen plates to filter feed on small crustaceans called amphipods, as well as other benthic organisms. They are known for their long migrations, traveling between feeding grounds in the cold waters of the Arctic and breeding grounds in the warmer waters off Mexico. The gray whale has a unique feeding behavior, often rolling on its side in shallow waters to scoop up sediment and water from the sea floor, filtering out food. As the only member of its genus, the gray whale plays a key role in our understanding of baleen whale evolution and ecology.

Species

Gray Whale [Eschrichtius robustus]

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Taxonomy