Yes, the Black Sea is home to cetaceans, which include both dolphins and whales.
Cetaceans are fascinating marine mammals known for breastfeeding their young and needing to surface regularly to breathe. The region encompassing the Mediterranean and Black Seas is known to host a variety of these creatures. According to available information, 10 species of dolphins and whales are regularly found in this combined region.
While dolphins are more commonly observed and known in the Black Sea, some smaller whale species, often referred to as toothed whales (like some beaked whales or even larger dolphin species sometimes informally called whales), are also part of the rich marine biodiversity found here. Larger baleen whales, like the Fin Whale mentioned in the broader context of the Mediterranean and Black Seas region (reaching up to 20 meters), are much less common or not typically found within the Black Sea itself due to its specific characteristics (like lower salinity and connection constraints), but smaller 'whales' within the cetacean group are indeed present.
Here's a breakdown based on the provided context:
- Cetaceans: Marine mammals found in the Black Sea.
- Species Count: 10 species of dolphins and whales are regularly found in the Mediterranean and Black Sea region.
- Examples: The reference mentions species ranging from the small porpoise (1.5 m) to the fin whale (20 m) in the broader Mediterranean and Black Seas context, indicating the variety of sizes within the cetacean group found in the overall region.
Black Sea Cetaceans Overview
| Type | Includes | Status in Black Sea |
|---|---|---|
| Dolphins | Various species | Regularly found |
| Whales | Smaller species | Present |
| Cetaceans | Dolphins & Whales | Regularly found |
In conclusion, while large baleen whales are not typical residents, the Black Sea is part of a region where various cetacean species, including smaller types categorized as whales, are found.
