Porpoise

Porpoises are a group of small toothed whales in the family Phocoenidae.

Porpoises are a group of small toothed whales in the family Phocoenidae. They are marine mammals related to dolphins, but are generally more compact, have blunt snouts, and lack the long beaks typical of many dolphins.

Classification and naming

Porpoises belong to the family Phocoenidae within the toothed whales (suborder Odontoceti) of the order Cetacea. Sources differ slightly on the exact number of recognized species, with six or seven commonly cited depending on classification.

Physical characteristics

Porpoises are generally smaller and more compact than dolphins, with blunt snouts and spatulate teeth. Most species have triangular dorsal fins and grey, white, or brown colouring. Typical size is usually up to about 2 metres long.

Habitat and distribution

Porpoises live in a wide range of waters, including coastal seas, open oceans, and in some cases rivers. Species occur in the Northern Hemisphere as well as in parts of South America, East Asia, and polar regions. Different species inhabit temperate, polar, tropical, coastal, and some freshwater environments.

Behaviour and diet

Porpoises are carnivores that feed mainly on fish, squid, and crustaceans. They are air-breathing mammals that use echolocation to navigate and find prey, and are often found in small groups.