Keel-Shaped Rostrum Gives Sei Whales a Sleek Hydrodynamic Profile

A single prominent ridge runs along the top of a sei whale's snout.

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The presence of one ridge versus three is a key diagnostic difference between sei and Bryde's whales.

Unlike Bryde's whales, which have three ridges, Balaenoptera borealis has a single central rostral ridge, aiding identification and contributing to its streamlined form.

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This subtle anatomical feature reduces drag and supports the whale's reputation as one of the fastest rorquals in the open ocean.

Field researchers rely on this ridge pattern to distinguish sei whales during offshore surveys where species can appear similar at a distance.

Source

Smithsonian Ocean Portal

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