How do beluga whales get their energy?

Beluga whales, like all animals, get their energy from food. They are carnivores, meaning they eat other animals. Their diet consists mainly of:

* Fish: They primarily eat bottom-dwelling fish like cod, herring, salmon, and flounder.

* Squid: They also hunt squid, which are a rich source of protein and energy.

* Crustaceans: Occasionally, they might consume crabs, shrimp, and other crustaceans.

Here's how beluga whales obtain energy from their food:

1. Digestion: Beluga whales have a digestive system that breaks down the food they consume into smaller molecules.

2. Absorption: These smaller molecules are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the body's cells.

3. Cellular Respiration: The cells use these molecules, particularly glucose, in a process called cellular respiration. This process converts the energy stored in food into a form that cells can use, called ATP (adenosine triphosphate).

Beluga whales have a relatively high metabolic rate, meaning they require a lot of energy to maintain their body functions, including swimming, hunting, and keeping warm in cold waters.