Torpedo Toothed Whale
Basic Information
Anatomy
The torpedo toothed whale is a large cetacean with similar body plan to its ancestor, the orca. These whales are thickly built and heavily muscled, with massive heads and jaws. The torpedo whale also has reduced dorsal fins, thought to primarily be an adaptation for better hiding their bodies when in shallow water. Torpedoes also have incredibly massive teeth when compared both to similarly sized whales and their closest relatives.
Ecology and Habitats
Very little is known about the ecology of this species compared to others, primarily due to their recent discovery. Compared to orcas, torpedoes are known to inhabit much shallower water, primarily cruising alongside coastlines, shallow seas, and deltas, however they do not appear to occupy these habitats for their whole lives and may only occupy them for parts of the year.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Like other toothed whales, the torpedo species is a carnivore and appears to primarily feed upon other cetaceans, turtles, sharks, and large bodied mammals such as seals. Humpback Nautulons appear to be a favorite prey item, and likely why the species has such large and robust teeth.
Additional Information
Geographic Origin and Distribution
Shallow coastal regions in the Atlantic are where the species has primarily been found, but due to their recent discovery, it is unknown just how broad their range truly is.
Genetic Ancestor(s)
Origin/Ancestry
Natural
Conservation Status
Unknown Status- Requires more study, discovered in 19977
Average Length
14 feet (males), 12 feet (females)
Geographic Distribution
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