Sperm whale family
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Sperm whale family
Sperm whale family. Computer artwork of a sperm whale (Physeter catodon, or macrocephalus) mother and calf. The gestation period exceeds 12 months, and the calf is nursed for 2-3 years after birth. Females rarely exceed 12 metres in length, but the males can be as much as 18 metres long and over 50 tonnes in weight. Sperm whales are toothed whales (teeth seen in lower jaw), though the teeth are thought to be used in aggression between males, rather than eating. Sperm whales dive deep (over 1000 metres) to hunt their main prey, giant squid. The sperm whale is found throughout the worlds oceans, living in groups (or pods) of one or two males and several females and young
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6463475
© CHRISTIAN DARKIN/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Baby Blue Calf Carnivore Carnivores Carnivorous Family Mammal Mother Physeter Catodon Physeter Macrocephalus Predator Predators Predatory Sperm Whale Swimming Toothed Trio Whale Whales Computer Artwork
EDITORS COMMENTS
This computer artwork showcases a mesmerizing moment in the life of a sperm whale family. The image depicts a mother and calf gracefully swimming through the deep blue ocean, surrounded by an aura of tranquility. Sperm whales are known for their remarkable size and strength, with males reaching lengths of up to 18 meters and weighing over 50 tonnes. In contrast, females rarely exceed 12 meters in length. These toothed giants have an intriguing social structure, living in pods consisting of one or two dominant males along with several females and young. The gestation period for these magnificent creatures is longer than a year, lasting over 12 months. Once born, the calf relies on its mother's nurturing care for another two to three years before becoming independent. While their name may suggest otherwise, sperm whales do not use their teeth for feeding purposes but rather as weapons during aggressive encounters between males. Their primary prey consists of giant squid that reside at astonishing depths exceeding 1000 meters below the surface. As inhabitants of all oceans worldwide, these majestic marine mammals play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance within their habitat. This awe-inspiring artwork serves as a reminder of the beauty and complexity found beneath our planet's vast waters – where nature thrives harmoniously amidst breathtaking scenes like this one captured by Science Photo Library.
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