Dwarf Sperm Whale
Kogia sima
Conservation Status
Least ConcernMammalia · Cetacea · Kogiidae
About
The dwarf sperm whale is a sperm whale that inhabits temperate and tropical oceans worldwide, in particular continental shelves and slopes. It was first described by biologist Richard Owen in 1866, based on illustrations by naturalist Sir Walter Elliot. The species was considered to be synonymous with the pygmy sperm whale from 1878 until 1998. The dwarf sperm whale is a small whale, 2 to 2.7 m and 136 to 272 kg, that has a grey coloration, square head, small jaw, and robust body. Its appearance is very similar to the pygmy sperm whale, distinguished mainly by the position of the dorsal fin on the body–nearer the middle in the dwarf sperm whale and nearer the tail in the other.
Fun Fact
Kogia, unlike other whales, can eject a red-brown fluid when startled, likely to distract predators, similar to squid.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Ranges throughout tropical and temperate oceans of the world and inhabits the continental shelf and slope area.
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance