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.

Orca teeth are made up of two main layers – an outer enamel layer that protects the tooth and an inner dentin layer that provides support and structure. Unlike humans, orcas only develop one set of teeth during their lifetime that are not replaced if lost or damaged. Another remarkable feature is their bite force.

Orcas have anywhere form 40 to 56 interlocking teeth – each one around three inches long. They’re conical shaped and used for ripping and tearing, but not for chewing. Orcas eat their food in chunks or entirely whole. Cetaceans are conscious breathers. They have to remember to take a breath every time they need air.

A killer whale's eyes are on each side of its head, just behind and above the corner of its mouth, and in front of its white eyespot. A killer whale's eyes are about the same size as the eyes of a cow.

Dec 1, 2021 · In one study cited by Dr. Visser, orca teeth were not soft at all – orca teeth were in fact the second-hardest teeth of any of the dolphins. (The hardest teeth belong to the rough-toothed dolphin.) A captive orca displays worn down teeth.

Dec 1, 2017 · Individual teeth in the mandible and maxilla of captive orca were scored for coronal wear, wear at or below the gum line, fractures, bore holes and missing. Dental damage was commonly observed across all captive whale cohorts, with damage beginning early in …

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Inside the mouth are a number of teeth which are up to 10cm (4in) long. These help them to grab and hold their slippery prey. The body shape is cylindrical and tapers at either end giving them a hydrodynamic shape to help them move through the water. An orca will reach a length of up to 9m (30ft) and a weight of up to 10 tonnes (10 tons). Diet

Jan 4, 2024 · Killer whales, or orcas, are mystifying apex predators found across various marine habitats globally. Beyond their striking black and white appearances, their teeth reveal a captivating narrative of adaptation, specialization, and ecological diversity.

Objectives: Tooth damage as a result of oral stereotypies is evident in captive orca, yet little research on the topic exists. This study examines the associations between dental pathology, sex, facility, duration of captivity and other factors in captive orca.