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17 July 2009
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Commerson's dolphins

Commerson's dolphins

Commerson's dolphin

Commerson's dolphin, piebald dolphin
Cephalorhynchus commersonii

With their harlequin-shaped markings, Commerson's dolphins are striking, and variable in pattern.

Subspecies
Possibly two (one around Kerguelen Island in Indian Ocean).

Life span
Unknown.

Statistics
Body length: 1.3-1.7m, Weight: 35-60kg.

Physical description
Commerson's dolphins have a harlequin black and white pattern with a black head, back area, tailstock, fins and flippers, and with a triangular white patch on their throats. They lack a beak, and have rounded flippers.

Distribution
Commerson's dolphins can be found in coastal waters off the southern tip of South America. They swim very close to the shore in search of food.

Diet
Commerson's dolphins feed mainly on fish, crustaceans and squid.

Behaviour
Commerson's dolphins typically live in groups of 1-3, but form larger schools occasionally.

Conservation status
Commerson's dolphins are classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN Red List. They are hunted for crab bait.




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