Questions and Answers
What is the beluga whale also known as?
What is the distinctive feature of a beluga whale's head?
What is the reason for the absence of a dorsal fin in beluga whales?
What is the size of a beluga whale?
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What is the habitat of the beluga whale?
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Study Notes
Beluga Whale Overview
- Beluga whales are also referred to as "white whales" due to their distinctive coloration.
- They belong to the family Monodontidae, which includes only two species: the beluga and the narwhal.
Distinctive Features
- A notable characteristic of the beluga whale is its rounded head, which lacks a prominent beak.
- The head is also known to be flexible, allowing the whale to twist and turn easily underwater.
Dorsal Fin Absence
- Beluga whales lack a dorsal fin, which enhances their ability to navigate through icy waters.
- Instead of a dorsal fin, they have a dorsal ridge, reducing the risk of injury in their cold, often shallow habitats.
Size Specifications
- Adult beluga whales typically range in length from 13 to 20 feet (4 to 6 meters).
- They can weigh between 1,100 to 3,100 pounds (500 to 1,400 kg), with females generally smaller than males.
Habitat Preferences
- Beluga whales are predominantly found in Arctic and sub-Arctic regions, inhabiting coastal areas, estuaries, and rivers.
- They are known to migrate seasonally, moving to deeper waters in winter and returning to shallow areas in summer.
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Description
Test your knowledge about beluga whales with this quiz! Learn interesting facts about these Arctic and sub-Arctic cetaceans, including their unique characteristics and behaviors. Challenge yourself and discover more about the only cetacean with a white coloration.
