Is a dolphin and killer whale the same?

No, dolphins and killer whales are not the same, although they are both cetaceans, which means they are marine mammals.

Here's why:

* Family: Dolphins belong to the Oceanic dolphin family (Delphinidae), while killer whales belong to the Oceanic dolphin family (Delphinidae), but are classified as a different genus (Orcinus).

* Size: Killer whales are significantly larger than dolphins, averaging 20-26 feet in length. Dolphins range in size from 4 to 14 feet.

* Teeth: Killer whales have conical teeth designed for crushing bones and tearing flesh. Dolphins have pointed teeth for gripping fish and squid.

* Diet: Killer whales are apex predators and eat a wide variety of prey, including seals, sea lions, fish, sharks, and even other whales. Dolphins typically eat fish, squid, and crustaceans.

* Social structure: Both dolphins and killer whales are highly social animals, but killer whales have a more complex social structure with distinct pods and family groups.

So, while they are related, dolphins and killer whales are distinct species with unique characteristics.