PANTROPICAL SPOTTED DOLPHIN
Stenella Attenuata
Order
Odontoceti
Family
Delphinidae
These dolphins live up to about 40 years, measure between 1.6 - 2.6 meters, and weigh between 90 and 119 kg. They primarily feed on fish swimming near the surface (mackerel, flying fish...), but also on crustaceans and cephalopods in coastal areas.
Pantropical spotted dolphins are found in all tropical and subtropical seas, between 30-40°N and 20-40°S. They live both along the coasts and offshore. The pantropical spotted dolphin is one of the most commonly encountered species in the waters of the AGOA Sanctuary.
Sexual maturity is reached between 9 and 12 years old. The gestation of females lasts about 10 to 12 months, and birth always occurs in May or September.
- Source : AGOA
Head
Lips and tip of the beak generally bright white, dark bands in front of the eye and pectorals.
Fin
Slim, small falcate dorsal fin.
Behavior
Leaps, groups of many individuals (10 to several hundreds).
Coloration
Light-colored coat with a cape descending along the sides, the skin of adults is spotted, and the oldest individuals may have a white tip on the rostrum.
