Pronunciation: [sɛtˈe͡ɪsi͡ə] (IPA) 
Cetacea is a scientific term used to describe a group of marine mammals that includes whales, dolphins, and porpoises. The spelling of cetacea is based on its Greek origin, with "ceta" meaning "whale" and "acea" indicating a family or group. The IPA phonetic transcription for cetacea is /sɪˈteɪʃə/, with stress on the second syllable. The "c" is pronounced as a soft "s" sound and the final "a" is pronounced with a schwa sound.
Cetacea refers to a diverse group of marine mammals that includes whales, dolphins, and porpoises. It is a taxonomic order within the class Mammalia, and members of this order are characterized by their aquatic lifestyle, streamlined bodies, and adaptations for life in the water.
Cetaceans are highly specialized mammals that have evolved to inhabit and thrive in marine environments. They are uniquely adapted for their aquatic lifestyle, with features such as a streamlined body shape, limbs modified into flippers, and a tail fin, or fluke, for propulsion. They possess blubber or thick layers of fat beneath their skin, which helps in maintaining body temperature in cold waters.
The order Cetacea comprises two main groups: Odontoceti, or toothed whales, and Mysticeti, or baleen whales. Toothed whales have teeth and often include species like dolphins and porpoises. They rely on echolocation to locate prey and navigate in their underwater habitats. On the other hand, baleen whales have baleen plates in their mouths instead of teeth, allowing them to filter-feed on small organisms like krill and plankton.
Cetaceans are known for their complex social structures, communicative behaviors, and impressive cognitive abilities. They can produce a wide range of vocalizations, from clicks and whistles to songs lasting for hours. They exhibit various social behaviors such as cooperative hunting, feeding, and nurturing their young.
These magnificent creatures play significant ecological roles in marine ecosystems and are essential for maintaining a balanced marine environment. Unfortunately, many cetacean species face significant threats from factors such as pollution, habitat degradation, climate change, and hunting. Conservation efforts aim to protect and preserve cetaceans and their habitats to ensure their long-term survival.
Animals of the whale kind.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "cetacea" has its etymology from the Latin word "Cētus", which means "whale".
