Australian Snubfin Dolphin
Orcaella heinsohni
Conservation Status
VulnerableMammalia · Cetacea · Delphinidae
About
The Australian snubfin dolphin is a dolphin found off the northern coasts of Australia. It closely resembles the Irrawaddy dolphin and was not described as a separate species until 2005. The closest relative to the genus Orcaella is the killer whale, Orcinus orca. The Australian snubfin has three colors on its skin, while the Irrawaddy dolphin only has two. The skull and the fins also show minor differences between the two species.
Fun Fact
It closely resembles the Irrawaddy dolphin (of the same genus, Orcaella) and was not described as a separate species until 2005.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Endemic to Australia.
Diet
Consume a wide array of prey, that can be narrowed down to coastal, estuarine, and reef-associated fishes throughout the water column and at the bottom.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Degradation
- Overexploitation
- Invasive Species
- Climate Change