Podcast
Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson
Questions and Answers
What is the beluga whale also known as?
What is the beluga whale also known as?
- The melonhead
- The sea canary (correct)
- The Arctic whale
- The white dolphin
What is the distinctive feature of a beluga whale's head?
What is the distinctive feature of a beluga whale's head?
- A dorsal fin
- A protuberance housing an echolocation organ (correct)
- A long snout
- A large eye
What is the reason for the absence of a dorsal fin in beluga whales?
What is the reason for the absence of a dorsal fin in beluga whales?
- To swim faster
- To reduce body weight
- To increase buoyancy
- To swim under ice with ease (correct)
What is the size of a beluga whale?
What is the size of a beluga whale?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the habitat of the beluga whale?
What is the habitat of the beluga whale?
Signup and view all the answers
Flashcards are hidden until you start studying
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.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
