Inquiry: Explanation on Whales and Their Identity

In the vast expanse of our oceans, a diverse and fascinating world thrives, home to creatures known collectively as cetaceans. These marine mammals, including whales, dolphins, and porpoises, have captivated humans for centuries, but their classification can sometimes be a source of confusion.

Firstly, it's important to clarify that the term "whale" is not a scientific one. It is believed to have originated from an ancient European language, meaning 'big ocean fish'. However, in a less formal sense, the term "whale" is often used as a broad term for all marine mammals, similar to the term "bug" for insects.

Cetaceans are divided into two main suborders: Mysticetes and Odontoceti. The Mysticetes, which includes 15 species such as blue, gray, and right whales, feed by filtering food from the water, such as krill and plankton, using baleen plates. On the other hand, the Odontoceti suborder, which includes species such as sperm whales, beaked whales, dolphins, and porpoises, have teeth and are carnivorous.

The Mysticetes are often easily distinguishable due to their lack of teeth and the presence of baleen plates. However, the six types of oceanic dolphins that have "whale" in their common names, such as killer whales and pilot whales, belong to the Odontoceti suborder, as they possess teeth and carnivorous diets. These dolphins, along with the common bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), are part of the family Delphinidae.

The term "cetaceans" is the formal term for all whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Despite the confusion that arises when people attempt to divide them into subgroups, it's essential to remember that all cetaceans share a common ancestry and are closely related.

In conclusion, while the classification of whales can be complex, understanding the basic distinctions between the Mysticetes and Odontoceti suborders provides a solid foundation for exploring this captivating world beneath the waves. Whether you're fascinated by the gentle giants of the Mysticetes or the agile predators of the Odontoceti, the beauty and complexity of cetaceans never fails to amaze.