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Dorsal Fin – The dorsal fin is falcate (curved
back) and located center of the back. It is made
up of fibrous tissue. May act to stabilize the dolphin
as it swims but it is not a necessity, since some
dolphin’s dorsal fins are damaged. |
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Blowhole – Located on the top of the head.
It is used by the dolphin to breathe. |
 |
Melon – The rounded structure on the top
of the head used to produce sound for communication
and echolocation. |
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Rostrum – The snout of the dolphin contains
20-25 teeth that are conical in shape. These interlocking
conical teeth are used for catching prey not chewing
it. Dolphins swallow their food whole. |
 |
Pectoral Flippers – The pectoral flippers
are the dolphin’s forelimbs. They resemble
the forearm of land mammals. The flippers are curved
and pointed on the ends and have a primary function
of helping the dolphin to steer. |
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Tail Fluke – A Dolphin's tail has 2 lobes
called flukes. These flukes are flat, and made up
of fibrous tissue. There is no bone or muscle. The
tail fluke is used for swimming by the back muscles
moving the fluke up and down. |
