Stenella attenuata, commonly known as the pantropical spotted dolphin, is a species of oceanic dolphin found in tropical and subtropical waters worldwide. These dolphins are known for their distinctive spotted patterns and playful behavior.
Description & Characteristics
Stenella attenuata is a slender dolphin with a long, pointed beak. Adults typically reach a length of 1.8 to 2.4 meters, with a maximum recorded size of 2.6 meters. The dorsal fin is tall and falcate, while the pectoral fins are relatively small. The most striking characteristic is their spotted pattern: their backs are dark gray, while their flanks and bellies are light gray, covered in numerous small, white spots. These spots often become more prominent as the dolphin ages.
Habitat and Occurrence
Stenella attenuata is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical waters of all oceans. They are most commonly found in the epipelagic zone, the uppermost layer of the ocean, between the surface and 200 meters. Their distribution overlaps with various marine zones, including the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are particularly abundant in the tropical Atlantic, the tropical Pacific, and the Indian Ocean. Within these regions, they are often sighted close to coastlines, in bays, and over deep-sea trenches.
Taxonomy
Stenella attenuata belongs to the family Delphinidae, the largest family of oceanic dolphins. They are classified within the Order Cetartiodactyla, which includes all whales, dolphins, and even hippos. This order falls under the Class Mammalia, indicating that they are warm-blooded animals with hair, mammary glands, and give birth to live young.
Feeding
Stenella attenuata are primarily piscivorous, meaning their diet consists mainly of fish. They primarily feed on squid, crustaceans, and small fish, adapting their hunting strategies based on the available prey. Their diet may vary based on their location and the availability of food in the region.
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