* Shape: The fluke is a crescent-shaped, horizontally flattened structure.
* Size: It can be up to 6 feet wide and 5 feet tall.
* Color: It's typically black on top and white on the underside, with a distinctive white patch on the dorsal side of the fluke.
* Function: The fluke is the primary means of propulsion for killer whales. They use it to generate powerful thrust for swimming, jumping, and turning.
* Variations: The shape and size of the fluke can vary slightly between individuals, and even more so between different populations of killer whales.
Here are some additional points to remember about a killer whale's fluke:
* It's made up of cartilage and muscle, not bone.
* It has a complex network of blood vessels that help regulate its temperature.
* The pattern of black and white on the fluke is unique to each individual, much like a human fingerprint. This can be used by researchers to identify individual whales.
Overall, a killer whale's fluke is an impressive structure that plays a crucial role in their survival and success.