Concept in Definition ABC

The killer whale is a cetacean mammal that belongs to the same family than dolphins. It is popularly called the orca whale, but it is also known as the killer whale because historically it has been considered a dangerous animal (this image is related to a cinematographic vision and not to the reality of its behaviour).

Physiological characteristics

Although its appearance is similar to that of a fish, it is a mammal adapted to the marine environment, like seals, otters or dolphins. His breathing it is pulmonary, so it needs to be in contact with the surface to receive oxygen.

It has a very stylized body structure and its large fins allow it great mobility in the aquatic environment.

The gestation period of the females ranges between fifteen and eighteen months and at the time of birth the offspring exceed one hundred kilos in weight.

Killer whales stand out for their large size (adult males measure about 9 meters and weigh more than 5 tons, while females have smaller dimensions). Its coloration is one of its most genuine characteristics (most of its body is black and some parts are white).

His teeth have a total of 46 teeth and it is one of his natural weapons. The killer whale has an auditory system similar to that of dolphins, as well as good vision

The killer whale is an animal that lives in a fairly homogeneous social structure (the grouping of individuals is known by the name of pod and each of these includes specimens of several generations that reach form a population of about 40 individuals).

Studies on these cetaceans suggest that their social organization It is based on maternal kinship and the members of the herds have strong bonds of union.

Like dolphins, orcas have developed a system of communication and each group or pod has its own communication model (they emit sounds or clicks that propagate through waves, which is known as echolocation). In this sense, the researchers consider that the herds of killer whales have a codecultural particular and, therefore, it is a species endowed with great intelligence. Due to this and their spectacular appearance they are highly valued animals for water attractions intended for entertainment.

Photos: iStock - CoreyFord / MR1805