Facts

• The Stenella clymene was not recognized as its own species until 1975 (Perrin et al. 1981).

 

• This dolphin is a species of active bow riders-swimming along the wave created at the front of a boat or ship (Jefferson 2009; Jefferson and Curry 2003). To learn more information about bow riding and see a video of this phenomenon, click HERE.

Figure 9. Two unidentified dolphins bow riding an NOAA ship.

• Schools of Clymene dolphins are suspected to be separated by age and sex (Jefferson 2009; Jefferson and Curry 2003).

 

• The most distinctive feature of the Stenella clymene is a black mustache on top of the beak (Jefferson 2009).

 

• Stenella clymene individuals have been observed playing with seaweed with their flukes and flippers (Jefferson and Curry 2003).

 

• This dolphin has never been kept in captivity aside from temporary rescue and release (Jefferson 2009).

 

• The Clymene dolphin has been seen jumping and spinning above the water, but not as often or elaborately as spinner dolphins (Jefferson 2009).                                                            

Figure 10. A spinner dolphin spinning in the air.

 

Home

Continue to References