|
Introduction
How are porpoises different from dolphins?
-
Both are odontocetes, i.e. toothed whales
-
Belong to two different families (porpoise in the family Phocoenidae
and dolphin in the family Delphinidae)
-
Can be considered as different as dogs from cats
-
Features of porpoises and dolphins
|
Porpoises |
Dolphins |
| Appearance |
Smaller, mostly < 2m |
Larger |
| Dorsal Fin |
Smaller or even absent
More triangular in shape |
Larger, always present |
| Rostrum or Beak |
Absent |
Prominent |
| Teeth |
Spaded-shaped |
Conical |
| Behaviour |
Shy
Not approach boats
Not exhibit aerial behaviour |
Very active
Exhibit lots of aerial behaviour, such as breaching, spy hopping,
wake-riding and bow-riding |
|
