Short-beaked common dolphin  (Delphinus delphis)

Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Description

The short-beaked common dolphin is the commonest dolphin species (2), but exact numbers are unknown (5). It is easily identified owing to the obvious 'hourglass' pattern on the flanks, which creates a dark V-shape below the dorsal fin (2). Considerable variation in colours and patterns exists within this species (5), and in 1994 a new species, the long-beaked common dolphin was recognised, based on both anatomical and genetic differences (2).

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