A rare deep-diving cetacean species characterized by its dense, robust skull and specialized feeding adaptations for consuming mesopelagic prey.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Primarily found in deep offshore waters of tropical and temperate oceans worldwide, typically between 200-2000 meters depth, with preference for continental slope and oceanic regions.
Ecological Role
Critical marine predator controlling deep-sea mesopelagic food webs, serving as indicator species for marine ecosystem health and ocean biodiversity.
Morphology
SKIN COATDark gray to bluish-gray coloration, often with scarring and lighter patches, smooth skin adapted for deep-sea thermal regulation
LIMBS WINGSPowerful, relatively short pectoral flippers, small dorsal fin positioned far posterior on body, broad flukes for efficient deep-water locomotion
HEAD SENSORYDistinctive elongated, dense rostrum with pronounced cranial structures, specialized for deep-pressure echolocation and sound navigation
BODY STRUCTURERobust, compact body measuring 4.1-4.7 meters in length, weighing approximately 800-1000 kg, with streamlined hydrodynamic profile
