The orca (Orcinus orca), or killer whale, is a toothed whale and the largest member of the oceanic dolphin family. The only extant species in the genus Orcinus, it is recognizable by its black-and-white patterned body. A cosmopolitan species, it inhabits a wide range of marine environments, from Arctic to Antarctic regions to tropical seas.

Orcas, also known as killer whales, are are the largest member of the dolphin family. Threats to orcas include hunting and captivity.

Feb 17, 2025 · killer whale, (Orcinus orca), largest member of the dolphin family (Delphinidae). The killer whale is easy to identify by its size and its striking coloration: jet black on top and pure white below with a white patch behind each eye, another extending up each flank, and a variable

Jan 14, 2025 · The killer whale, also known as orca, is the ocean’s top predator. It is the largest member of the Delphinidae family, or dolphins. Members of this family include all dolphin species, as well as other larger species, such as long-finned pilot whales and short-finned pilot whales, whose common names also contain "whale" instead of "dolphin."

Over the last few decades, as wild orca research has expanded, researchers have described different forms or types of orcas. Known as ecotypes, these distinct types of orcas differ in size, appearance, prey preferences, foraging techniques, dialects, behaviours, and social groups.

Orcinus is a genus of Delphinidae, the family of carnivorous marine mammals known as dolphins. It includes the largest delphinid species, Orcinus orca, known as the orca or killer whale. Two extinct species are recognised, Orcinus paleorca and O. citoniensis, describing fossilised remains of the genus. [2]

Regardless of being called killer whales, orcas are members family Delphinidae and are more closely related to dolphins than whales. They’re the sole species in this category, but their nearest family members are dolphin species from around South …

Dec 31, 2024 · What Family Do Orcas Belong To? Orcas, scientifically known as *Orcinus orca*, belong to the family Delphinidae, which is commonly referred to as the dolphin family. This family encompasses a diverse range of marine mammals, including …

Nov 7, 2024 · Orcas, commonly known as killer whales, belong to a fascinating family in the marine mammal world. These impressive predators are members of the Delphinidae family, which is part of the larger order of Cetacea.

Mar 13, 2025 · Orcas (Orcinus orca) belong to the dolphin family and are the largest members of this group. They can grow up to 32 feet long and weigh as much as 12,000 pounds. With a distinctive appearance featuring a black back, white chest, and white patches near their eyes—these creatures are instantly recognizable. Found in oceans across the globe ...