The upper body of the Atlantic spotted dolphin is a dark gray color. This fades to a medium gray on the sides and a light ventral surface. They have a chunky beak with a spot of white on the end. The name of the Atlantic spotted dolphin comes from the spots that develop as the dolphin ages. The older the dolphin, the more spots. Adult females tend to be larger than adult males.
Food
Atlantic spotted dolphins eat many varieties of fish and squid.
Habitat
Atlantic spotted dolphins are found in the tropical and subtropical waters of the Atlantic Ocean. They can also be found in the Indian Ocean and in some parts of the Pacific.
Predators
Atlantic spotted dolphins are preyed upon by sharks.
Social Structure
The typical family group of the Atlantic spotted dolphin can consist of 50 individuals but is usually somewhere between 5 and 15. They are very vocal and active at the surface. They will often group with other types of dolphins. It has also been observed that pod of Atlantic spotted dolphins can be formed along lines of gender, age and reproductive status.
Birth & Offspring
Young Atlantic spotted dolphins are born after a gestation period of 11 or 12 months. They have no spots when they are born. They first start to develop spots about the time they are weaned.
Senses
They use sonar to aid in navigation and hunting.
Lydia King is a huge animal lover and has always been fascinated with learning about the animal kingdom. She enjoys writing about anything animal related from scientific information about rare species to animal references in pop culture.
