Endemic marine mammal species found exclusively in the coastal regions of New Zealand, characterized by robust body structure and significant adaptation to marine environments.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Primarily inhabits subantarctic islands of New Zealand, including Auckland and Campbell Islands, with coastal breeding grounds along rocky shorelines and beaches
Ecological Role
Critical apex predator in marine ecosystems, regulating prey populations and maintaining ecological balance in southern oceanic food webs
Morphology
SKIN COATDense dark brown to black fur, thick blubber layer for thermal insulation in cold marine environments
LIMBS WINGSPowerful flippers for swimming, front flippers larger and more muscular for propulsion, rear flippers used for steering and beach locomotion
HEAD SENSORYLarge rounded head with pronounced sagittal crest, sensitive vibrissae for underwater navigation, acute hearing and vision adaptations
BODY STRUCTUREStocky, muscular body with average adult male weight of 350-450 kg and length of 2.5-3.5 meters, females smaller at 120-200 kg
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: English Wikipedia
