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Long-beaked common dolphin
A species of Common dolphin, Also known as Indian long-nosed dolphin Scientific name : Delphinus capensis Genus : Common dolphin
Long-beaked common dolphin, A species of Common dolphin
Also known as:
Indian long-nosed dolphin
Scientific name: Delphinus capensis
Genus: Common dolphin
Content
Description People often ask General Info
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Description
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The long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus capensis) is a species of dolphin that was formerly considered a subspecies of the common dolphin (Delphinus delphis), but is now recognized as a separate species due to recent morphological and molecular biological studies. The species occurs in two subspecies, the long-beaked common dolphin (Delphinus capensis capensis) and the Indo-Pacific common dolphin (Delphinus capensis tropicalis), the latter of which has been described by some authors as a separate species.
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People often ask
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General Info
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Lifespan
20-30 years
Diet
Long-beaked common dolphinpursues a predominantly piscivorous diet, expertly hunting small to medium-sized pelagic fish. Squid form another significant supplement, showing a keen preference for cephalopods.
Appearance
Long-beaked common dolphin is a medium-sized dolphin with a streamlined body and tapered beak. Its skin, predominately a deep bluish-gray on the back, fades into a lighter, almost white belly. Dark bands from eyes to flipper, a noticeable trait, give the illusion of a 'masked' face. There's no significant difference in appearance between genders, age groups, or subspecies. The sleek, conical dorsal fin is another defining feature.
Behavior
Long-beaked common dolphin exhibits gregarious behavior, often seen in large pods. Noted for its acrobatic displays involving breaching and bow-riding. Primarily feeds on fish, with occasional invertebrates, hunting cooperatively in groups. Long-beaked common dolphin's sociability extends to interspecies interactions, frequently seen with other dolphin species.
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Mammals Order
Whales and dolphins Family
Oceanic dolphins Genus
Common dolphin Species
Long-beaked common dolphin