Coloration Patterns Help Distinguish Sei Whales at Sea

Subtle shading differences across the body assist trained observers in identifying sei whales offshore.

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Field researchers often rely on multiple visual traits together rather than a single feature to confirm species identity.

Balaenoptera borealis generally exhibits dark bluish-gray coloration with lighter ventral areas, a pattern that differentiates it from similar rorquals during field surveys.

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Color variation, combined with dorsal fin shape and rostral ridge count, provides essential cues for accurate species classification in mixed whale aggregations.

Accurate identification is critical for population estimates, conservation policy, and understanding species-specific migration routes.

Source

National Marine Mammal Laboratory

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