Porpoise

Porpoise is a group of fully aquatic marine mammals, similar in appearance to a dolphin, and belonging to the family Phocoenidae. They are distinct from dolphins, although the word "porpoise" has been used to refer to any small dolphin, especially by sailors and fishermen. The most obvious visible difference between the two groups is that porpoises have shorter beaks and flattened, spade-shaped teeth distinct from the conical teeth of dolphins.

Taxonomy and evolution

Porpoises belong to the family Phocoenidae, which is one of the families in the order Cetacea, alongside the whales and dolphins. The family Phocoenidae is further divided into two subfamilies: the Phocoeninae (true porpoises) and the Neophocaeninae (finless porpoises).

Anatomy and appearance

Porpoises are small cetaceans of the family Phocoenidae; they are related to whales and dolphins. They are however distinct from their dolphin counterparts in several ways. Porpoises have a shorter beak and are generally smaller. They also have spade-shaped teeth, as opposed to the conical teeth found in dolphins.

Behavior

Porpoises are known for their high intelligence and playful behavior. They are also known to be very social animals, often seen in groups. They communicate using a series of clicks and whistles.

Conservation

Many species of porpoises are threatened by human activities such as fishing and pollution. Conservation efforts are in place to protect these species and their habitats.

See also

• Dolphin
• Whale
• Cetacean

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Porpoise

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  Harbor porpoise in Denmark

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