A large Arctic marine mammal characterized by its distinctive whiskers and specialized adaptation to cold marine environments, primarily inhabiting circumpolar regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Arctic and sub-Arctic marine ecosystems, including sea ice zones in Bering, Chukchi, Beaufort, and Greenland Seas, typically found in shallow continental shelf waters
Ecological Role
Key species in Arctic marine food webs, serving as prey for polar bears and orcas, and playing a critical role in maintaining marine ecosystem balance
Morphology
- SKIN COAT Dense, grayish-brown fur with lighter undercoat, thick blubber layer providing thermal insulation in extreme cold environments
- LIMBS WINGS Broad, flipper-like hindlimbs for swimming, front flippers used for locomotion and thermoregulation
- HEAD SENSORY Prominent, long whiskers (barbels) used for detecting benthic prey on sea floor, highly sensitive tactile sensory organs
- BODY STRUCTURE Robust, torpedo-shaped body with thick blubber layer, measuring 2.1-2.7 meters in length and weighing 250-300 kg
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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