Types of Dolphins That Get Called Whales
Dolphins are the most popular type of marine mammal. They are especially famous for their intelligence and acrobatic movements in the ocean. Bottlenose dolphins are the most well-known type, but in fact this animal is divided into around 40 species that are included in the Delphinidae family. Of the several types of dolphins, apparently there are many species that are even called whales. The reason is because their size is getting bigger than their peers. Here are five types of dolphins that get called whales.
- Killer Whales
First there are killer whales, or commonly called orcas. Orcas are the largest dolphin species in the world, with a size reaching almost 10 meters and weighing 6 tons, as quoted by National Geographic. That size makes them even bigger than some species of true whales. The term “killer” is appropriate because they are the top predators in the ocean. They can eat various types of marine animals, starting from fish, penguins, seals, sharks, and several types of whales. Orcas hunt in groups of up to 40 individuals, making them effective hunters.
- Pilot Whales
Next are pilot whales, which are divided into two species, namely long-finned pilot whales and short-finned pilot whales. Both species have a length of up to 6 M and weigh 3 tons. Thus, they are the second largest dolphin species after orcas. In addition to size, the performance of the two species is also similar, but they can be distinguished by the size of their fins. Pilot whales are social animals. Quoted from Britannica, they live in groups that can be divided into several hundred individuals. Their main food is squid, but they often eat various types of fish.
- False Killer Whales
There is also a species of dolphin called false killer whales. Even so, they are not directly related to killer whales or orcas. Quoted from the Oceana site, their name comes from the shape of their skulls which are similar to orcas. False killer whales have a length of up to 6 m and weigh 2 tons. They are social animals, even forming bands with other dolphin species, such as bottlenose dolphins. False killer whales hunt in bands and their diet includes squid and fish.
- Pygmy Killer Whales
Pygmy killer whales get their name from their similarity in appearance to orcas. However, they are smaller, with a maximum length of 2.6 meters and a weight of 225 kg. With a slender body and dark coloring like a pilot whale, they are also called slender pilot whales. The Whales website states that pygmy killer whales are found in all tropical and temperate oceans around the world. However, they are very rare, with an estimated population of only around 40,000. Their diet includes squid and fish, but they sometimes eat other dolphin species.
- Melon-headed Whale
Another species of dolphin that is called a whale is the melon-headed whale. As the name suggests, this dolphin is characterized by a head that is shaped like a melon. Its size is very similar to the pygmy killer whale, which is 2.7 meters long. and weighs 225 kg.
Meanwhile, the melon-headed whale’s lifestyle is more like a false killer whale. They live in groups that can be divided into several hundred individuals. In addition, they like to socialize with various other dolphin species. Because of their large size, the five types of dolphins above even get the call of whales. That shows that they do have great species diversity!
Dolphins as Aquatic Animals Reproduce by Steps
Dolphins or also known as delfin are marine mammals that are famous among animal lovers. They have great swimming power and intelligent behavior. One of the fascinating things about dolphins is how they reproduce. In the following article, we will review in full regarding how dolphins reproduce.
- How Dolphins Reproduce in General
Dolphins are animals that naturally reproduce by viviparity. This means that if the fertilization process occurs in the female’s body, the baby dolphin will be born alive and well developed. The mating process between male and female dolphins is often carried out in a line called a pod.
- Mate Search Process
Before mating, male dolphins will compete to get the attention of the female. They can show certain attractions such as jumping high in the air or making attractive sounds. Female dolphins will choose the partner they consider best for them.
- Selection Process for Egg-Laying Locations
After a successful pairing is created, the female dolphin will look for a safe location to give birth. They often choose calm waters away from predators. This is where the dolphin birth process will take place.
- Birth Process
When the time comes, the female dolphin will give birth to her baby in a sideways or supine position. Baby dolphins are generally born in a “tail first” position to facilitate the birth process. Baby dolphins will breathe directly using their gills and will be immediately breastfed by their mothers.
- Care for Baby Dolphins
After being born, baby dolphins will continue to receive attention and care from their mothers. They will be protected from predators and cared for with love. Baby dolphins will generally stay with their mothers for a certain period of time before finally being able to be independent.
- Independence of Baby Dolphins
After reaching a certain age, baby dolphins will be taught by their mothers to learn to swim, find food, and survive in the wild. They will continue to be taught and accompanied by their mothers until they are ready enough to live independently.
- Protection from Humans
In the midst of the terror of environmental change and human activities that can cause harm, protection for dolphins is important. Conservation efforts and control of marine resources must always be carried out to maintain the survival of dolphins and the marine ecosystem as a whole.
Conclusion
Dolphins are interesting aquatic animals with interesting and unique reproduction to explore. The dolphin breeding process is an example of a natural phenomenon that deserves to be seen and preserved. With better knowledge regarding how dolphins reproduce, it is hoped that we can care more about their survival and the marine ecosystem as a whole.
So where can you see dolphins swimming with education and conservation of these marine mammals? Don’t worry, because Bali Dolphin Marine Park is an official dolphin education and conservation institution that can be witnessed directly until swimming with dolphins.