Neophocaena phocaenoides, commonly known as the finless porpoise, is a small, porpoise found in coastal and estuarine waters of the Indo-Pacific region. It is a unique and fascinating species, distinguished by its lack of a dorsal fin and its adaptability to a variety of habitats.
Description & Characteristics
Neophocaena phocaenoides is a relatively small porpoise, typically reaching a length of 1.5 to 2 meters and weighing around 40 to 70 kilograms. As its name suggests, it lacks a dorsal fin, possessing instead a low, rounded ridge along its back. This feature, along with its short, rounded head and stout body, differentiates it from other porpoise species. Its coloration is generally dark grey to black on its dorsal side, fading to a lighter grey on its ventral side. The possesses a small, triangular flipper and a broad, notched tail fluke.
Habitat and Occurrence
The Neophocaena phocaenoides is primarily a coastal species, inhabiting the shallow waters of estuaries, bays, and lagoons. It has a wide distribution throughout the Indo-Pacific region, ranging from the eastern coast of Africa to the western coast of the Americas. Its presence has been recorded in various marine zones, including the tropical and subtropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, the temperate waters of the western Pacific, and even the brackish waters of some rivers.
Taxonomy
The Neophocaena phocaenoides is classified within the Order: Cetartiodactyla, the order encompassing even-toed ungulates and whales. It belongs to the Family: Phocoenidae, a family that includes all porpoises.
Feeding
The Neophocaena phocaenoides is a carnivorous species, feeding primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans. Its diet varies depending on the location and availability of prey. The uses echolocation to locate and capture its prey, emitting high-frequency sound waves and detecting the echoes that bounce back from objects in its surroundings. This sophisticated sensory system allows the porpoise to navigate in murky waters and to hunt effectively in low-light conditions.
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