Southern Right Whale
Eubalaena australis
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Cetacea · Balaenidae
About
The southern right whale is a large baleen whale and one of three species of right whale belonging to the genus Eubalaena. Found throughout the Southern Hemisphere, it inhabits oceans between the latitudes of 20° and 60° south. Like its northern relatives, the southern right whale is noted by its broad back without a dorsal fin, a long, arching mouth, and white growths on its head known as callosities. Previously hunted for hundreds of years, almost to extinction, the species is now protected and its global population was estimated to be around 13,600 (2009).
Fun Fact
Southern right whales have the largest testes of any animal — each testis weighs up to 500 kg — because females mate with multiple males and sperm competition determines reproductive success.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found throughout the Southern Hemisphere, it inhabits oceans between the latitudes of 20° and 60° south.
Diet
To be updated
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance