1. Nervous System:
* Brain: Highly developed, responsible for complex behaviors, navigation, communication, and social interaction.
* Spinal Cord: Carries signals from the brain to the rest of the body.
* Nerves: Connect the brain and spinal cord to organs and muscles.
2. Circulatory System:
* Heart: Four-chambered heart, pumps oxygenated blood throughout the body.
* Blood Vessels: Arteries, veins, and capillaries transport blood.
* Blood: Contains red blood cells (carry oxygen), white blood cells (fight infection), and plasma (carries nutrients).
3. Respiratory System:
* Lungs: Specialized for efficient oxygen uptake.
* Blowhole: Single opening on top of the head for breathing.
* Diaphragm: Muscle that helps with breathing.
4. Digestive System:
* Mouth: Teeth for catching and chewing prey.
* Esophagus: Connects the mouth to the stomach.
* Stomach: Breaks down food.
* Small Intestine: Absorbs nutrients.
* Large Intestine: Absorbs water and eliminates waste.
5. Musculoskeletal System:
* Muscles: Powerful muscles for swimming and hunting.
* Skeleton: Streamlined, with bones that are dense and strong.
* Flippers: Modified forelimbs for swimming.
* Flukes: Horizontal tail fins for propulsion.
6. Excretory System:
* Kidneys: Filter waste products from the blood.
* Urinary Bladder: Stores urine.
7. Reproductive System:
* Male: Testes produce sperm.
* Female: Ovaries produce eggs.
8. Endocrine System:
* Glands: Produce hormones that regulate various bodily functions.
9. Integumentary System:
* Skin: Smooth and streamlined, with a layer of blubber for insulation and buoyancy.
Special Adaptations:
Dolphins have several unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in their marine environment:
* Echolocation: Using sound waves to navigate, locate prey, and avoid obstacles.
* Blubber: Thick layer of fat for insulation and energy storage.
* Streamlined Body Shape: Reduces drag in the water.
* Powerful Tail Flukes: Generate thrust for efficient swimming.
Understanding these systems helps us appreciate the incredible complexity and sophistication of dolphins, making them some of the most fascinating creatures on Earth.