Questions and Answers
Killer whales belong to which scientific family?
Why are they called killer whales?
They were originally called 'whale killers' due to some ecotypes hunting other whale species.
How do scientists categorize killer whales around the world?
By ecotypes based on small differences related to their locations in different populations.
Why would a killer whale's dorsal fin bend?
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How do scientists identify killer whales in the natural environment?
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Describe the social hierarchy of a killer whale pod.
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Describe echolocation as used by killer whales.
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How do killer whales cooperatively hunt for food?
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When was the first successful killer whale birth at SeaWorld?
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Why is AI (Artificial Insemination) important for killer whale populations?
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Study Notes
Killer Whales Classification
- Class: Mammalia (Mammals)
- Order: Cetacea (Marine Mammals/Whales)
- Suborder: Odonoceti (Toothed Whales)
- Family: Dolphinidae (Dolphins)
- Genus and species: Orcinus orca
Origin of the Name "Killer Whale"
- Name evolved from "whale killers," due to hunting behaviors toward other whale species.
- Terms used by fishermen and sailors reflected their observations of killer whale hunting.
Ecotypes and Scientific Categorization
- All killer whales belong to the same species with variations based on geographic location.
- Scientists categorize them into different ecotypes based on these location-driven differences.
Dorsal Fin Characteristics
- The dorsal fin is made of fibrous connective tissue that can bend under the force of gravity.
- Bending occurs more frequently in captivity but is also observed in some wild populations.
Identification Methods in the Wild
- Unique dorsal fin characteristics, including scratches, rake marks, and shape, aid in identifying individual whales.
- The saddle patch, a white marking behind the dorsal fin, also assists in identification.
Social Structure
- Killer whale pods operate on a matriarchal hierarchy where females dominate males.
Echolocation Mechanism
- Echolocation functions similarly to sonar; signals bounce off objects and return to the whale.
- Sounds enter through the jaw bone, traveling to the inner ear, enabling the whale to detect surroundings.
Cooperative Hunting Techniques
- Killer whales exhibit teamwork by encircling smaller prey to confuse and stun before attacking.
- When targeting larger prey, they attack from multiple angles to prevent escape, as demonstrated by a coordinated attack on a blue whale.
SeaWorld's Breeding Program Achievements
- First successful birth at SeaWorld: Kalina "Baby Shamu" in September 1985.
- Notable births include Kayla in 1988, and multiple calves such as Sakari and Kamea by 2013.
- Over 30 successful killer whale births recorded at all SeaWorld parks.
Importance of Artificial Insemination (AI)
- AI enhances genetic diversity in breeding programs, essential for population health.
- Reduces stress on whales by eliminating the need to transport them for mating.
- First AI baby killer whale: Nakai, born in September 2001.
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Description
Test your knowledge on killer whales with these flashcards! Learn about their scientific classification and the origins of their name. This quiz will help you understand key facts about these fascinating marine mammals.
