Beluga Whales
Classification of Beluga Whales
Beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) live in the Arctic and sub-Arctic, and is one of two animals classified as Monodontidae. As the sole animal identified under the Delphinapterus, they have a uniquely distinct white color and lack a dorsal fin. There are many nicknames for which they are known by: white whale, sea canary, and melonhead.
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How do I know which group of animals are being referred to?
Throughout the website, I refer to different groups of animals that include the beluga whales. For clarification, Cetaceans are a group of aquatic mammals who live completely aquatic lifestyles and have streamlined bodies. Additionally, they have tails that produce strong up-and-down movements and flippers for steering and maneuvering. On the right is an infographic of the breakdown of groups. Click the button below for more detail on this fascinating group.
How do I differentiate between Odonceti and Mysteceti?
There are features that are similar, yet different between these two groups of Cetacea. On the left is an illustrated infographic that contrasts these traits between these two groups, and also shows how to identify males and females Cetaceans. Belugas are Odontocetes (bottom right whale), though they lack dorsal fins.
Picture Credits and Licenses: Title Images (scaled to fit into slideshow) -
Photo by Tengyart on Unsplash; Photo by Mendar Bouchali on Unsplash; Photo by Saanvi Vavilala on Unsplash