Pronunciation: [zˈalɒfəs kˌalɪfˈɔːnɪkəs] (IPA) 
The word "Zalophus Californicus" is a scientific name for a species of sea lions found in California. The pronunciation is /zəˈlɑfəs ˌkæləˈfɔrnɪkəs/. The "z" is pronounced as "zuh," "a" as "uh," "l" as "luh," "o" as "uh," "ph" as "f," "u" as "uh," "s" as "suh," "c" as "kuh," "a" as "uh," "l" as "luh," "i" as "uh," "f" as "f," "o" as "uh," "r" as "er," "n" as "nuh," "i" as "uh," "k" as "kuh," and "uh"
Zalophus Californicus, commonly known as the California sea lion, is a marine mammal species belonging to the family Otariidae. It is native to the coastal waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean, with a range extending from the southern coastline of Alaska down to the tip of Baja California in Mexico.
The California sea lion is characterized by its large size, with adult males typically reaching lengths of 7-8 feet and weighing between 600 and 850 pounds. Females are generally smaller, measuring around 6 feet in length and weighing between 200 and 250 pounds. They have a distinct coat coloration, with adult males exhibiting a dark brown to grayish hue, while females and juveniles often have a lighter, tan or golden-colored fur.
These sea lions are highly adaptable and are known for their agility in both water and on land. They possess powerful flippers and are capable of swimming at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. California sea lions are skilled divers, capable of reaching depths of around 600 feet and holding their breath for up to ten minutes. They primarily feed on fish, particularly anchovies, sardines, and squid.
Due to their curious and social nature, Zalophus Californicus is often found in large colonies or rookeries, where they reproduce, rest, and molt. They use beaches, rocky shores, and man-made structures as haul-out sites and prefer temperate and subtropical climates for breeding. These sea lions are a crucial species in marine ecosystems, serving as top predators and contributing to nutrient cycling.
The conservation status of California sea lions is currently labeled as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating that their populations are believed to be stable throughout their range.
The word Zalophus Californicus has its etymology rooted in Greek and Latin.
The genus name, Zalophus, comes from the Greek words zalos meaning zeal or ardor, and phos meaning light or brightness. This name suggests the energetic and active nature of the animals belonging to this genus.
The species name, Californicus, reflects the geographic origin of the species. It refers to the state of California, where the California sea lion (Zalophus Californicus) is commonly found along the Pacific coast.
Combining these elements, Zalophus Californicus can be translated to mean the bright and zealous California sea lion.
