Pinnipeds

Pinnipeds

Pinnipeds (pronounced /ˈpɪnɪˌpɛdz/), commonly known as seals, sea lions, and walruses, are a widely distributed and diverse group of semi-aquatic marine mammals. They comprise the Infraorder Carnivora and the Suborder Caniformia.

Etymology

The term "Pinniped" comes from the Latin words pinna, meaning "fin" or "wing", and pes, pedis, meaning "foot". This refers to the fin-like appendages that these animals use for locomotion in the water.

Description

Pinnipeds are characterized by their fin-like limbs, thick layer of Blubber, and ability to thrive in both aquatic and terrestrial environments. They range in size from the 1 m (3.3 ft) and 45 kg (99 lb) Baikal Seal to the 5 m (16 ft) and 3,200 kg (7,100 lb) Southern Elephant Seal, which is the largest member of the group.

Classification

Pinnipeds are typically divided into three families: Phocidae (the earless or true seals), Otariidae (eared seals, including sea lions and fur seals), and Odobenidae (the walrus). These three families comprise over 33 species.

Behavior

Pinnipeds have diverse behaviors across species, but all spend significant portions of their life in the water for feeding. On land, they are known to engage in behaviors such as Molting, breeding, and resting.

Related Terms

• Carnivora: The order to which pinnipeds belong.
• Caniformia: The suborder of carnivores that includes pinnipeds.
• Blubber: The thick layer of fat found under the skin of pinnipeds and other marine mammals.
• Molting: The process of shedding old skin or fur to make way for new growth.

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