Baleen Whale - Information on Phylum, Lifespan etc

Baleen whales are a suborder of whales that are characterized by their baleen plates. Their characterization based on they use to filter food from seawater. There are two main types of baleen whales: mysticetes and odontocetes. Mysticetes, such as humpback whales, grey whales, and bowhead whales, have two blowholes, and are known for their long, narrow lower jaws and baleen plates made of keratin. Odontocetes, such as the killer whale, have one blowhole and baleen plates made of dentin.

Baleen Whale Tooth, Species, Feeding & Breeding

Baleen whales are generally larger than toothed whales and have a more varied diet, feeding on small fish, krill, plankton and squid. They are known for their complex vocalizations, including songs and calls, which can travel great distances underwater. Baleen whales are found in all oceans of the world. Some species migrate between feeding and breeding grounds, while others are resident in one area year-round. Many baleen whale populations have been severely depleted by commercial whaling and continue to face threats from entanglement in fishing gear, pollution, and climate change.

Baleen Whales have comb-like structure in their mouth called Baleen

Baleen whales, such as humpbacks, grey whales, and bowhead whales, do not have teeth in their mouths. Instead, they have a comb-like structure called baleen. They use to filter small prey such as krill and plankton from seawater using their comb-like structure called baleen. The baleen plates are made of keratin, the same substance that makes up human nails and hair, and are located in the upper jaw. Some species of baleen whale, such as the bowhead, have been known to have up to 700 plates of baleen.

Streamlined Type of Baleen Whale

The most streamlined type of baleen whale is likely the common dolphin. These whales are known for their sleek and hydrodynamic bodies, which allow them to swim at high speeds and make sharp turns. They have a distinct triangular dorsal fin and a sharp, pointed head, which also contribute to their streamlined shape. Common dolphins are found in oceans all over the world, and are known for their intelligence and acrobatic displays.

Baleen Whale Phylum

Baleen whales belong to the phylum Chordata, which is a group of animals that possess a spinal cord and a notochord at some point in their life cycle. The phylum Chordata also includes animals such as fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. Within the phylum Chordata, baleen whales are classified as mammals. They are characterized by their warm blood, mammary glands, and the presence of hair. They belong to class Mammalia, order Cetacea, and suborder Mysticeti.