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Amazon river dolphin

mammal
Also known as: Inia geoffrensis, boto, bufeo, pink dolphin

Quick Summary

The Amazon river dolphin, also known as the boto or pink dolphin, is the largest of the four known species of river dolphins. These mammals are found in the Amazon and Orinoco river basins and can grow up to eight feet long and weigh up to 450 pounds. Their color can range from dark gray to mottled pink-and-gray or bright pink, with young dolphins being gray.

River dolphins, in general, are small, freshwater aquatic mammals related to whales. They are characterized by long beaks and rounded foreheads. Unlike other dolphins, river dolphins are less athletic and spend much of their time at river bottoms, using their sensitive snouts and sonar to find food. They are often described as friendly and curious towards humans.12

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