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Cetaceans (whales, porpoises, and dolphins)
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- Cetaceans (whales, porpoises, and dolphins) are categorized into two main groups: baleen whales (mysticetes) and toothed whales (odontocetes). They spend their lives in water, and have many adaptations to their entirely aquatic lifestyle. There are over 70 different species of cetacean.
www.noaa.gov/education/resource-collections/marine-life/marine-mammalsMarine mammals - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Aug 25, 2024 · Most species of aquatic mammals live in the marine environment. There are three orders of aquatic mammals, which include: cetacea, carnivora and sirenia. Cetacea order. The most representative species within the cetacea order are: whales, dolphins, sperm whales, killer whales and porpoises.
Explore the world of aquatic mammals, from deep-diving whales to playful dolphins, and discover the unique adaptations that allow them to thrive.
Aquatic mammals and semiaquatic mammals are a diverse group of mammals that dwell partly or entirely in bodies of water. They include the various marine mammals who dwell in oceans, as well as various freshwater species, such as the European otter.
- Pinnipeds. The pinniped group includes seals, sea lions and walruses. This group of animals are characterized by being fin-footed, carnivorous and mostly aquatic.
- Cetaceans. Cetaceans are the most diverse group of marine mammals and include species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. There are roughly 90 different species of cetaceans and this diverse group of animals can be found in oceans and in some cases- rivers, all over the world!
- Sirenians. The sirenians, also known as the sea cows, are a group of herbivorous, slow-moving, fully aquatic mammals. Sirenians are broken up into two families; the dugongs and the manatees.
- Fissipeds. While you may have never heard of the term “fissipeds”, you likely know what a fissiped is. There are many species of fissipeds, but there are only two species of marine fissiped.
- Bottlenose Dolphin. Of course, everyone knows and loves the bottlenose dolphin. Using echolocation, dolphins can track their prey with expert precision. They’re also known for their high intelligence.
- Killer Whale. Also known as Orcas, Killer Whales are the largest of the dolphins and the most powerful predators, feeding on other marine mammals. They’ve been known to grab seals right off the ice.
- Harp Seal. The harp seal loves to swim in the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, remaining submerged for about fifteen minutes. They love to hunt and feed on fish and crustaceans.
- Polar Bear. Believe it or not, polar bears are considered aquatic mammals as well. With a thick layer of body fat and a water-repellent coat, they are well insulated from the cold air and water.
Whales, dolphins, porpoises, manatee and dugong are completely aquatic; seals, sea lions, walrus, hippopotamus, platypus, otters, beavers and nutria are semiaquatic, spending part of their lives on land.
Jun 2, 2023 · Examples of aquatic animals are long, and it contains various types of beings such as fish, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Animals that live in water depend on it for their survival. Not only does it provide a habitat for them, but it also allows them to feed on other creatures and plants.
