Relatives to whales, dolphins are marine mammals of the
Delphinidae family. There are 40 different species of dolphins in the world's
oceans that vary in size and weight. Dolphins are considered one of the
smartest animals on the planet with distinctive communication and playful
attitudes. The word "dolphin" originates from the Greek and means fish with
womb.
Dolphins are carnivores by nature, surviving on small fish as
they move through the ocean propelled by their fluke, or tail fin. The dolphin's
anatomy is well suited to life at sea with pectoral fins for control and a
dorsal fin that provides stability. Other distinguishing features include a
blowhole for breathing, a long nose, a melon in their brains for locating
objects and a heightened sense of hearing and sight.
Like bats, dolphins use echolocation for navigation.
Dolphins are social creatures living in groups called "pods" that and contain
as many as 12 other members. During a feeding frenzy, "superpods" of 100 plus
dolphins are formed. Sleeping dolphins are only ever half asleep as they only
allow half of their brain to relax. Interestingly, dolphins appear to have no
sense of smell and may use taste as a substitute for having no olfactory
organs.