Histriophoca
Histriophoca is a genus of earless seals that includes the single species Histriophoca fasciata, commonly known as the ribbon seal. This genus is classified within the family Phocidae, which encompasses all true seals, and is part of the order Carnivora. Ribbon seals are relatively small seals, with adults typically reaching a length of 1.5 to 1.8 meters and weighing around 100 to 135 kilograms. They are characterized by their distinctive coloration, featuring a white belly, a dark gray back, and a distinctive band of dark brown or black fur extending from the eyes to the flippers, giving them their common name.
Common Names
The most common name for Histriophoca fasciata is the ribbon seal, reflecting its unique color pattern. Other common names include the banded seal, the ringed seal, and the harp seal, although the latter is more commonly associated with another seal species, Pagophilus groenlandicus.
Characteristics
Ribbon seals are well-adapted to their Arctic environment. They possess a thick layer of blubber for insulation and have streamlined bodies for efficient swimming. Their flippers are large and powerful, allowing them to navigate the icy waters and haul themselves onto ice floes. Ribbon seals have relatively small heads and short necks, and their eyes are large and dark, giving them excellent vision in the dim light of the Arctic.
Environment
Ribbon seals are primarily found in the Arctic Ocean, inhabiting the waters surrounding the Arctic Circle. They are highly adapted to ice conditions and spend much of their time on ice floes, particularly during breeding season. Their distribution extends from the coastlines of Russia and Alaska to Greenland and Canada.