Baleen whale
Baleen Whale
Baleen Whale (pronounced: /bəˈliːn weɪl/) is a type of Cetacean that includes the largest species of Whale on Earth. The term "Baleen" originates from the Latin word "bālaena", which translates to "whale".
Baleen Whales are distinguished by their baleen plates, which are used to filter food from water. These whales are also known for their two blowholes, unlike their Toothed Whale counterparts which only have one.
Characteristics
Baleen Whales are characterized by their large size, with some species such as the Blue Whale reaching lengths of up to 100 feet. They have a broad, flat head and a long, slender body. The baleen plates in their mouths are made of keratin, the same material as human fingernails and hair. These plates act as a sieve, allowing the whale to filter out small organisms from the water for consumption.
Diet
The diet of a Baleen Whale primarily consists of small fish and Krill. They feed by taking in a large amount of water and then pushing it out through their baleen plates, trapping their prey in the process.
Species
There are 15 species of Baleen Whales, including the Humpback Whale, Minke Whale, and the aforementioned Blue Whale. Each species has its own unique characteristics and behaviors.
Habitat
Baleen Whales are found in oceans all over the world. They migrate annually, traveling to cold polar waters to feed during the summer and then returning to warmer tropical waters to breed and give birth during the winter.
Conservation
Many species of Baleen Whales are currently threatened or endangered due to factors such as hunting, habitat loss, and climate change. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these majestic creatures and their habitats.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Baleen whale
- Wikipedia's article - Baleen whale
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