Erignathus
Erignathus is a genus of pinnipeds in the family Phocidae, commonly known as bearded seals. These large seals are found in the Arctic and subarctic regions of the world, inhabiting the icy waters of the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and Arctic Oceans. They are characterized by their distinctive facial features, most notably the long, thick whiskers that give them their name.
Common Names
Erignathus barbatus, the only species within the genus Erignathus, is commonly known as the bearded seal. Other common names include the "square flipper seal," "obba seal," and "ogruk" in some parts of the Arctic.
Characteristics
Bearded seals are among the largest phocids, with males typically measuring around 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) in length and weighing up to 350 kilograms (770 pounds). Females are generally smaller, averaging around 2.1 meters (6.9 feet) in length and 200 kilograms (440 pounds) in weight. They possess a distinctive thick neck and a large, rounded head. The most prominent feature, of course, is the long, thick whiskers (vibrissae) that project from the snout. These whiskers play a crucial role in the bearded seal's ability to detect prey beneath the ice and mud.
Their bodies are covered in a thick layer of blubber, which helps them to stay warm in cold waters. Their flippers are relatively short and stout, making them more suited to crawling on land than swimming long distances.
Environment
Bearded seals are primarily found in the Arctic and subarctic regions of the world, inhabiting ice-covered waters and coastal areas. They prefer shallow waters and are known to spend significant amounts of time hauled out on ice floes and shorelines. The distribution of bearded seals is closely tied to the availability of their primary food sources, which include clams, mussels, crabs, and fish.
References
For further information on Erignathus, please refer to these reliable sources: