Lagenorhynchus albirostris, commonly known as the white-beaked dolphin, is a small species of oceanic dolphin found in the North Atlantic Ocean. They are known for their distinctive white beaks, which contrast sharply with their dark gray bodies.
Description & Characteristics
Lagenorhynchus albirostris is a relatively small dolphin, with adults typically reaching a length of 1.8 to 2.5 meters and weighing between 100 and 180 kilograms. They have a slender build with a prominent, elongated beak that is white in color, giving them their common name. The rest of their body is a dark gray color, often with a lighter gray patch behind the dorsal fin. Their flippers are relatively long and narrow, and they have a small, triangular dorsal fin. These dolphins are known for their acrobatic behavior, often leaping and breaching the water’s surface.
Habitat and Occurrence
Lagenorhynchus albirostris is found in the North Atlantic Ocean, with a distribution that ranges from the northeastern coast of North America to the western coast of Europe. They prefer cold, temperate waters and are typically found in the epipelagic zone, which extends from the surface to a depth of about 200 meters. Their distribution overlaps with several marine zones, including the North Atlantic Current, the Gulf Stream, and the Irminger Current. They are a common sight in areas with strong currents and abundant prey, particularly off the coasts of Iceland, Norway, and the British Isles.
Taxonomy
Lagenorhynchus albirostris is classified within the Class: Mammalia, Order: Cetartiodactyla, and Family: Delphinidae. They are part of the genus Lagenorhynchus, which includes several other species of dolphins with similar characteristics. This group belongs to the oceanic dolphin family, which is known for its diverse array of species and adaptations for life in marine environments.
Feeding
Lagenorhynchus albirostris is a highly social species, typically forming pods of 10 to 100 individuals. They are opportunistic feeders and primarily feed on fish, squid, and other small marine creatures. They use echolocation to locate prey, emitting clicks and whistles that bounce off objects and return to them, providing information about the location and size of their prey. Their diet varies depending on their location and the availability of food, but they are known to target schools of fish and squid, which they often hunt in coordinated groups.
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