* Species: Different dolphin species have different lung capacities and diving abilities.
* Activity level: Dolphins need more oxygen when they're actively swimming, hunting, or playing.
* Water temperature: Colder water holds more oxygen, allowing dolphins to stay submerged longer.
* Depth: Deeper dives require more oxygen.
* Individual factors: Each dolphin has its own unique physiology and diving habits.
General guidelines:
* Most dolphins surface every few minutes to breathe.
* They can stay submerged for up to 5-10 minutes on average.
* Some species can hold their breath for up to 15-20 minutes in rare cases.
Important note: Dolphins are highly intelligent and adaptable creatures. Their breathing patterns can be influenced by their environment, social interactions, and other factors.