Lobodon
Lobodon is a genus of pinnipeds that contains only one living species, the crabeater seal (Lobodon carcinophaga). The genus name, Lobodon, comes from the Greek words “lobos” meaning “lobe” and “odon” meaning “tooth,” referring to the distinctive, comb-like teeth of these seals. They are found exclusively in the Southern Ocean, circling the Antarctic continent.
Common Names
The crabeater seal is also known as the crab-eating seal, the krill-eating seal, and the Antarctic crab-eater seal. These common names reflect the seal's primary food source - Antarctic krill.
Characteristics
Crabeater seals are medium-sized seals, with adults typically reaching a length of 2.2 to 2.6 meters (7.2 to 8.5 feet) and a weight of 200 to 300 kilograms (440 to 660 pounds). They have a distinctive, slender body with a relatively long neck, a small head, and flippers that are long and paddle-shaped. Their most noticeable feature is their teeth. Their molar teeth are adapted for filtering krill out of the water, with a comb-like structure. They have a thick layer of blubber for insulation in the frigid waters of the Antarctic.
Environment
Crabeater seals are highly adapted to life in the Southern Ocean. They spend most of their time in the water, coming ashore only to rest, breed, and give birth. They are found in pack ice, ice shelves, and open water, often congregating in large numbers.
Diet
Crabeater seals primarily feed on krill, a small, shrimp-like crustacean that is abundant in the Southern Ocean. Their specialized teeth allow them to sieve krill from the water efficiently.
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