Rough-toothed Dolphin [Steno bredanensis]
Description
The Rough-toothed Dolphin is a comparatively small species of oceanic dolphin that has a widespread distribution in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world. The species is notable for its conical head and slender body, which are counter-shaded with lighter undersides. The species bears its name from the characteristic roughness of their teeth, which is unique among dolphins. They are known for their strong social bonds and complex social behavior, often seen engaging in play behavior with objects in the water or leaping out of the water. Their diet mainly consists of cephalopods and small fish.
Taxonomy
| Phylum |
Chordates
Chordata
|
|---|---|
| Class |
Mammals
Mammalia
|
| Order |
Cetaceans
Cetacea
|
| Family |
Oceanic dolphins
Delphinidae
|
| Genus |
Rough-toothed Dolphin
Steno
|