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11 November 2009
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Chilean dolphin, black dolphin
Cephalorhynchus eutropia

Very little known is known about Chilean dolphins, and most data has been obtained from strandings.

Subspecies
None.

Life span
Unknown.

Statistics
Body length: 1.2-1.7m, Weight: 30-65kg.

Physical description
Chilean dolphins can be distinguished by their colouring, as their dorsal side is black and the ventral side white with small white patches behind the flippers and white lips. They have a large, round dorsal fin.

Distribution
Chilean dolphins are found in shallow coastal waters on the west coast of Chile.

Diet
They feed mainly on fish, crustaceans and squid.

Behaviour
Groups of 2-3 are typical.

Conservation status
Chilean dolphins are classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN Red List, and are illegally hunted for crab bait.




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