Variations In Size And Appearance

Toothed Whales: A Guide to Size and Appearance

Variations in Size and Appearance

Toothed whales exhibit remarkable diversity in their physical characteristics, with sizes ranging from the tiny harbor porpoise to the colossal sperm whale. These differences are largely influenced by the species to which a whale belongs.

Orcas: Among the Largest Toothed Whales

One of the most well-known toothed whales is the orca, also known as the killer whale. Orcas are apex predators and occupy the top of the marine food chain. Adult males can reach lengths of up to 9 meters (30 feet), while females are typically smaller, measuring around 7 meters (23 feet).

Orcas are easily recognizable by their distinctive black and white markings. They have a tall, rounded dorsal fin that can reach heights of up to 1.8 meters (6 feet) in males. Orcas also possess sharp, conical teeth adapted for hunting and consuming other marine mammals, including seals, sea lions, and even other whales.