Body Shape and Size:
* Fusiform Body: Their streamlined, torpedo-shaped body minimizes water resistance, allowing for efficient swimming.
* Compact Size: Their relatively small size compared to other whales helps them navigate ice-filled waters and maneuver in tight spaces.
* Flexible Neck: Unlike other whales, belugas have a flexible neck that allows them to turn their heads and move their mouths independently, aiding in hunting and social interactions.
Skin and Blubber:
* Thick Blubber Layer: A thick layer of blubber beneath their skin provides insulation against the frigid water temperatures.
* Melanin-free Skin: Belugas have a unique white skin that lacks melanin, a pigment that absorbs heat. This helps them reflect sunlight and stay cool in the summer.
* Special Skin Fold: A fold of skin on the back of their neck allows them to retract their dorsal fin when navigating through ice.
Respiratory System:
* Large Lungs: Their large lungs allow them to hold their breath for extended periods, crucial for diving and hunting.
* Efficient Oxygen Utilization: They have a high oxygen carrying capacity in their blood, allowing them to extract oxygen efficiently even at depths.
Other Adaptations:
* Dorsal Fin: Their dorsal fin is small and rounded, which helps them avoid getting stuck in ice.
* Flukes: Powerful, flexible flukes allow for rapid acceleration and precise maneuvering.
* Echolocation: They use echolocation, emitting high-pitched clicks and interpreting the returning sound waves to locate prey and navigate in murky water.
* Large Head: Their large heads house the melon, a fatty organ that helps focus the sounds used in echolocation.
These structural adaptations make beluga whales well-suited to their challenging Arctic environment. They can survive the cold, find food efficiently, and navigate through icy waters, ensuring their continued success in these unique habitats.