Long-finned pilot whale [Globicephala melas]
Description
The long-finned pilot whale is a large species of dolphin. It is distinguished by its long, slim pectoral fins, and a bulbous forehead. The body is mostly dark grey to black in color, with a lighter patch behind the dorsal fin, and often with a grey or white anchor-shaped patch on the belly. This species has a wide distribution in cold and temperate waters of both hemispheres, though they are not often seen in the Arctic or the Antarctic. They are known for their strong social structure and have been observed to care for sick or injured members. Their diet primarily consists of squid and fish.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Mammals
Mammalia
|
| Order |
Cetaceans
Cetacea
|
| Family |
Oceanic dolphins
Delphinidae
|
| Genus |
Long-finned Pilot Whale
Globicephala
|