Correct spelling for the English word "rorqual" is [ɹˈɔːkwə͡l], [ɹˈɔːkwəl], [ɹ_ˈɔː_k_w_əl] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Rorqual is a noun that refers to any of several large baleen whales belonging to the family Balaenopteridae. Rorquals are characterized by their slender bodies, longitudinal grooves on their throats and belly, and a pleated throat that expands when feeding. They are known to be the largest animals on the planet, with some species reaching lengths of up to 100 feet and weighing over 150 tons.
Rorquals are famous for their unique feeding method called lunge feeding, where they accelerate towards a patch of prey with their mouths wide open, engulfing huge volumes of water and prey. After capturing their prey, which mainly consists of small fish and krill, the rorquals use their baleen plates to filter the water out, trapping the food inside their mouths. This feeding strategy allows them to consume large amounts of food efficiently.
There are several species of rorquals, including the blue whale, humpback whale, fin whale, sei whale, and Bryde's whale. These species are widely distributed across oceans around the world, although some populations are more localized. They are often observed during their seasonal migrations, where they travel long distances between their feeding and breeding grounds.
Rorquals play a crucial role within ocean ecosystems, as they are key predators in the marine food chain. Additionally, they have been historically targeted by the whaling industry due to their large size and high oil content, which has resulted in significant population declines. Conservation efforts are now in place to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures.
One of the whale kind, having a more slender body than the common whale.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "rorqual" originates from the Norwegian language. It is derived from the Old Norse term "raukvalr", which refers to a type of whale. The term "raukvalr" is a combination of the words "rauk" (meaning "wrinkle" or "fold") and "valr" (meaning "whale"). The name is believed to have been inspired by the pleated appearance of the throat grooves found on most rorqual whales.