Australian Snubfin Dolphin
Australian Snubfin Dolphin
Australian Snubfin Dolphin
In the warm waters off the coast of Australia, lives a dolphin with a round head and an adorable smile. This is the Australian snubfin dolphin. They are active hunters that frequent shallow coastal waters. Let's take a closer look at the ecology of the Australian snubfin dolphin and the challenges they face.
Australian Snubfin Dolphin Basic Infomation
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Orcaella heinsohni |
| Taxonomic Status | ACCEPTED |
| Rank | SPECIES |
| Vernacular Names | Australian Snubfin Dolphin |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Mammalia |
| Order | Cetartiodactyla |
| Family | Delphinidae |
| Genus | Orcaella |
| Habitats | Northern Australian coast |
| Conservation Status | Endangered |
Size
They are about 8.9 feet (2.7 meters) long and weigh about 286 pounds (130 kilograms). They are a relatively small dolphin species. Females are slightly larger than males.
Lifespan
Their lifespan in the wild is estimated to be about 30 years.
Distribution
They are found in the tropical and subtropical waters of northern Australia. They prefer shallow coastal waters and are often seen in estuaries and bays.
Australian Snubfin Dolphin Q&A
What kind of dolphin is the Australian snubfin dolphin?
The Australian snubfin dolphin is a species of dolphin belonging to the genus Orcaella.
They were described as a new species in 2005. They closely resemble the Irrawaddy dolphin, but genetic analysis has revealed that they are a distinct species. Their appearance is almost identical to the Irrawaddy dolphin, with a round head, a short beak, and a small dorsal fin. In English, they are called the 'Australian snubfin dolphin.' The word 'snubfin' refers to their short nose. They are endemic to the warm waters of northern Australia. They form small groups, usually numbering from a few to a dozen individuals. They feed on fish, squid, and crustaceans. They are also known for their curious nature and may approach boats or swim alongside them.
What do Australian snubfin dolphins eat?
Australian snubfin dolphins are carnivores, primarily feeding on fish, squid, shrimp, and crabs.
They swim along the shallow seabed, foraging for food. They also use echolocation to locate prey. By emitting sound waves, they can understand their surroundings and pinpoint the location of their prey. This ability allows them to hunt efficiently, even in murky water.
[Quiz!] What is the difference between Australian snubfin dolphins and Irrawaddy dolphins?
While Australian snubfin dolphins and Irrawaddy dolphins are very similar in appearance, genetic analysis has revealed that they are distinct species.
They are thought to have diverged from a common ancestor about 2 million years ago. Their habitats are also different. Australian snubfin dolphins are found only along the northern coast of Australia, while Irrawaddy dolphins live in the rivers, coastal waters, and estuaries of Southeast Asia and northern Australia.
[Quiz!] Are Australian snubfin dolphins endangered?
Yes, the Australian snubfin dolphin is listed as 'Endangered' on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List.
Their population is declining due to bycatch from fisheries, marine pollution, and habitat destruction. Protecting Australian snubfin dolphins requires fishing regulations, pollution control, and habitat conservation.
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Australian Snubfin Dolphin Type of List
Characteristics of Australian Snubfin Dolphins
- Round head and short beak
- Small dorsal fin
- Grayish body color
- About 8.9 feet (2.7 meters) long
- Weigh about 286 pounds (130 kilograms)
- Found only along the northern coast of Australia
- Endangered (EN)
Information
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Australian Snubfin Dolphin References
Australian Snubfin Dolphin Introduction of media used
Mononykus, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
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Australian Snubfin Dolphin
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