The dwarf sperm whale, also known by its scientific name Kogia sima, is a small-sized marine mammal belonging to the family Kogiidae. It is a species of toothed whale that can be found in deep warm waters across various oceans, particularly in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.
The dwarf sperm whale is characterized by its small body size, typically measuring around 8 to 9.5 feet (2.4 to 2.9 meters) in length, with females being slightly larger than males. It possesses a stocky shape with a small, rounded head and a sharply curved dorsal fin set far back on its body.
These whales have a dark bluish-gray coloration on their bodies, which lightens towards their underside. They also have a distinct white or light gray band that runs from the eye to the tail, known as a "false gill" or "ventral blaze". Additionally, the dwarf sperm whale features a series of small conical teeth in its lower jaw, used for grasping its prey.
Feeding primarily on squid and fish, these whales are known to dive to depths of around 1,000 to 3,300 feet (300 to 1,000 meters) in search of food. They are generally solitary or found in small groups of up to four individuals.
Due to their secretive nature and deep-diving abilities, the dwarf sperm whale remains relatively enigmatic. The IUCN Red List classifies this species as data deficient, emphasizing the need for further research and conservation efforts to determine its population status and potential risks.
