Heaviside's Dolphin [Cephalorhynchus heavisidii]
Description
Heaviside's Dolphin is a small species of dolphin found off the coast of Namibia and the west coast of South Africa. It is characterized by its robust body, rounded dorsal fin, and distinctive color pattern with a dark grey dorsal area and lighter sides and belly. This dolphin species is known for its playful behavior and acrobatic displays. They typically live in small groups of up to 20 individuals and feed on a diet primarily composed of fish and squid. Despite being frequently sighted close to shore, little is known about their population size or social structure due to their remote habitat.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Mammals
Mammalia
|
| Order |
Cetaceans
Cetacea
|
| Family |
Oceanic dolphins
Delphinidae
|
| Genus |
Heaviside's Dolphin
Cephalorhynchus heavisidii
|